Viagra – Your Complete Reference

When it comes to Viagra, many people picture a quick fix for erectile dysfunction, but the story behind the drug is richer than a headline. Viagra is the brand name for sildenafil citrate, a prescription medication that improves blood flow to the penis. Also called Sildenafil, it belongs to the class of PDE5 inhibitors, which block the enzyme phosphodiesterase‑5 to allow smooth‑muscle relaxation and increased blood flow. Another well‑known product in this class is Cialis, marketed as tadalafil, showing that the PDE5 inhibitor family offers multiple dosing options and durations. The semantic link is clear: Viagra is a type of PDE5 inhibitor, Cialis also belongs to the same class, and all of them work by inhibiting the same enzyme. This connection explains why doctors choose one over another based on onset time, duration, and a patient’s health profile. Understanding how these drugs fit together helps you make an informed choice rather than just picking a name you’ve heard on TV.

From a safety perspective, Viagra requires a prescription because it can interact with nitrates, certain blood‑pressure meds, and some antibiotics. The drug’s mechanism—blocking phosphodiesterase‑5—means it also affects blood vessels elsewhere, so men with serious heart conditions must be evaluated first. Typical dosing starts at 50 mg taken about an hour before sexual activity, with the option to adjust to 25 mg or 100 mg based on effectiveness and side‑effects like headaches, flushing, or mild visual changes. Older adults often need a lower dose because metabolism slows with age. Alcohol isn’t a direct contraindication, but heavy drinking can blunt the drug’s effect and increase the risk of dizziness. Lifestyle factors—such as smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise—also influence how well Viagra works, so doctors frequently combine medication advice with recommendations on diet and activity. If you’re traveling, remember that the drug’s effectiveness may change at higher altitudes due to altered blood‑oxygen levels, a nuance highlighted in recent clinical notes.

Cost and accessibility are common concerns. Generic sildenafil provides the same clinical benefit at a fraction of the brand price, and many pharmacies now offer affordable online options—provided you verify the pharmacy’s legitimacy and avoid counterfeit products. Comparisons with other ED drugs, like Levitra (vardenafil) and Stendra (avanafil), reveal differences in onset (10‑15 minutes for Stendra) and duration (up to 36 hours for some formulations), which can matter for spontaneity versus planned intimacy. Insurance plans often cover the generic version, and patient‑assistance programs can further reduce out‑of‑pocket costs. The articles below dive deeper into dosage tips, safety checks, how to spot reliable online sellers, and side‑by‑side performance reviews of Viagra, Cialis, and other PDE5 inhibitors. Browse the collection to get practical guidance that matches your situation.