While it is a well known drug that gives men a lift in the bedroom, erectile dysfunction by far remains one of the largest conditions affecting men. The condition can wreck marriages and relationships and Viagra can offer a solution to the problem, provided that's what the doctor suggests.
But there are times that Viagra shouldn't be taken - here's all you need to know.
Excessive drinking: Excessive drinking, and recreational drug use, is associated with erectile dysfunction. Sustained alcohol misuse can also damage the arteries that supply the penis, making it difficult for a man to get and maintain an erection. If you drink or take drugs when you are using Viagra it can reduce it's efficacy.
Other medication: If you are on other medication you should always check with a GP before taking Viagra. If you are taking other erectile dysfunction drugs you should not be taking Viagra as well. The same goes for heart drugs like nitrates - used to treat chest pain and angina - or pulmonary hypertension medication. The Viagra can interact badly with these medications.
Underlying health conditions: If you have an underlying health condition taking Viagra could exacerbate the problem. A history of heart attack, stroke, low blood pressure, heart disease, liver problems or vision problems should dissuade a person from taking Viagra.
Also, if you have been diagnosed with stomach ulcers, haemophilia, heart problems, sickle cell anaemia or leukaemia you should speak to a doctor before taking the drugs.
Relationship problems: You may think that taking Viagra to deal with relationship problems linked to impotency is a good idea, but it's not. Erectile dysfunction can emotional distress for both parties involved. But in these circumstances, difficult times in a relationship can have a physical effect on your body. You should try counselling and psychological support as it may treat the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction, instead of just the physical symptoms.
When you don't have ED: If you don't suffer from erectile dysfunction then you don't need erectile dysfunction drugs. Viagra is only intended to be used by men who struggle to get or maintain an erection. Using Viagra to improve your performance when you don't suffer from impotence could end up with you suffering from erectile dysfunction when you try to have sex without it.
If you suffer side effects: Just like any other drug, if you have suffered side effects when taking it before you shouldn't take them again.
If you don't plan on having sex: The point of Viagra is to help a man get an erection. If you aren't going to be having sex then you don't need to take the little blue pill.
When engaging in sexual activity the effects of Viagra can begin anywhere between 30-60 minutes from when the pill is taken.
If it's counterfeit: Taking counterfeit medication is dangerous as it has not gone through the regulations that prescription drugs have. That means you can't be sure of what is in the pill, or what effect it will have on your body.
If you're a woman: Unless you have a penis, you shouldn't be taking Viagra. If you are a woman and suffering from female sexual dysfunction then you should speak to your GP about different medications you can use.
Allergies: If you have known allergies to any of the ingredients in Viagra then you shouldn't be taking it.
