Viagra Questions

Many people have the very same questions about VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate), whether they’ve used it already or are just considering it. Here are answers to the most common questions: Answers about ED
Answers about VIAGRA
Answers for men taking VIAGRA
Answers for partners

Answers about ED
What is ED?
How many men have ED?
Are erection difficulties, such as erectile dysfunction (ED), really a problem that’s just in your head?
What do I do if I feel funny talking to my doctor about ED?
I don’t have ED because the problem doesn’t happen often. Does this mean that VIAGRA isn’t for me?
Answers about VIAGRA
What is VIAGRA?
How does VIAGRA work?
How well does VIAGRA work?
Will VIAGRA work as soon as I take it?
Does VIAGRA automatically cause an erection?
Is VIAGRA only for men with severe ED?
How much VIAGRA can I take?
How often can I take VIAGRA?
Can I cut my pills in half?
Who should not take VIAGRA?
What if VIAGRA doesn't work?
Can I take VIAGRA with alcohol?
Can I take VIAGRA after eating?
What are the side effects of VIAGRA?
Answers for men taking VIAGRA
What do I do if I feel funny talking to my doctor about ED?
If I take VIAGRA, will I get an erection right away?
Will VIAGRA make me have an erection for hours?
I don’t have ED because the problem doesn’t happen often. Does this mean that VIAGRA isn’t for me?
I tried VIAGRA once, but it didn’t work. Does this mean it’s not for me?
How much VIAGRA can I take?
How often can I take VIAGRA?
Can I cut my pills in half?
Can I eat whatever I want when I take VIAGRA?
Can I take VIAGRA with alcohol?
What are the side effects of VIAGRA?
Is there anyone who shouldn’t take VIAGRA?
What if I haven’t had sex in a while?
I can get VIAGRA on the Internet. Why should I visit my doctor?
Answers for partners
Why should I be concerned about my partner’s ED?
If my partner takes VIAGRA, how do I know he’ll be responding to me and not the drug?
Will my partner still have an erection after sex?
When my partner takes VIAGRA, does that mean we have to have sex right away, as soon as it becomes active?
I’m concerned that VIAGRA may not be appropriate for my partner. What do I need to know to be sure?


Answers about ED
What is ED?
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is the medical term for impotence. This is when a man is unable to get and/or keep an erection that will allow satisfactory sexual intercourse. Learn more.

How many men have ED?
About 30 million men in the United States suffer from some degree of ED, including about half of all men aged 40 to 70 years.


Are erection difficulties, such as erectile dysfunction (ED), really a problem that’s just in your head?
Studies have shown that most ED is caused by physical health problems. These problems are most commonly high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. ED can also be associated with smoking, drinking too much, or stress. VIAGRA can help with ED caused by these problems. VIAGRA treats the physical problem of ED by increasing blood flow where you need it. Learn more about how VIAGRA works.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
What do I do if I feel funny talking to my doctor about ED?
ED is often a health problem. Doctors want to know about it so they can help make your health and your life better. Learn how to get the conversation started.

 I don’t have ED because the problem doesn’t happen often. Does this mean that VIAGRA isn’t for me?
Even if it happens once in a while, it’s still ED. Most men with ED have it just some of the time. VIAGRA has helped more than 16 million men around the world with their ED. And VIAGRA helps treat ED whether it happens often or only once in a while. Learn more about ED.

Answers about VIAGRA
What is VIAGRA?
VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate) is a breakthrough treatment for male erectile dysfunction or ED, often called impotence. It is a convenient pill you take only when you want to have sex. VIAGRA helps men with ED get and keep an erection when they become sexually stimulated, either physically or visually. So with VIAGRA, a touch or a glance from your partner can again lead to something more. Learn more about VIAGRA.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
How does VIAGRA work?
VIAGRA enables many men with ED to respond to sexual stimulation. When a man is sexually excited, the arteries in the penis relax and widen. This allows more blood to flow into the penis. The increased blood flow causes the penis to become hard and erect. The veins that normally carry blood away from the penis then become compressed. This restricts the blood flow out of the penis. With more blood flowing in and less flowing out, the penis enlarges, resulting in an erection.
Sometimes the nerves or blood vessels that are part of this process don’t work properly. If this happens, a man may not be able to get an erection. VIAGRA increases blood flow to the penis, so that when a man is sexually excited, he can get and keep an erection. When the sexual encounter is over, the erection goes away. Learn more about how VIAGRA works.
 

How well does VIAGRA work?
VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate) improves erections in up to 4 of 5 men compared with 1 out of 4 who took sugar pills.

Will VIAGRA work as soon as I take it?
VIAGRA is ready to work in your body in as quickly as 30 minutes. And it lasts for at least 4 hours.

Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
Does VIAGRA automatically cause an erection?
No. With VIAGRA, you must be sexually excited to get an erection. If you take VIAGRA and are not sexually stimulated, nothing will happen. You won't get an erection just by taking the pill. VIAGRA is not a hormone. It is not an aphrodisiac. It's a prescription medicine that can improve the erectile function of most men with erection problems.

Is VIAGRA only for men with severe ED?
No. VIAGRA works for men who have ED no matter how mild or severe their ED is. If you are taking VIAGRA, it doesn’t mean you have severe ED. Even men who have ED once in a while can benefit from taking VIAGRA.

How much VIAGRA can I take?
VIAGRA comes in different doses (25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg). Like many medicines, your doctor may have to adjust your starting VIAGRA dose if it doesn't produce the desired results or you're bothered by side effects. Do not take more VIAGRA than your doctor prescribes. In most patients, VIAGRA can be taken up to once a day as needed.

If you are older than 65 years, have a serious liver or kidney problem, or are taking protease inhibitors, such as for the treatment of HIV, your doctor may start you at the lowest (25-mg) dose of VIAGRA.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
How often can I take VIAGRA?
For most patients, VIAGRA can be taken once a day as needed. In patients taking certain protease inhibitors (such as for the treatment of HIV), it is recommended to not exceed a maximum single dose of 25 mg of VIAGRA in a 48-hour period.


Can I cut my pills in half?
VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate) pills are not designed to be cut in half, so there is no way to know if half a pill is effective. Cutting pills in half is not recommended.

Who should not take VIAGRA?
VIAGRA is only for patients with ED. VIAGRA is not approved for use in newborns, children, or women. Do not let anyone else take your VIAGRA. VIAGRA must be used only under a healthcare provider's supervision.

Before you start any treatment with VIAGRA, be sure to ask your healthcare provider if your heart is healthy enough. If you're a man who uses nitrate drugs, like nitroglycerine, never take VIAGRA. The combination of VIAGRA and nitrates can make your blood pressure suddenly drop to an unsafe or life threatening level. You could get dizzy, faint, or even have a heart attack or stroke. Nitrates are found in many prescription medicines that are used to treat angina (chest pain due to heart disease) such as:

nitroglycerin (sprays, ointments, skin patches or pastes, and tablets that are swallowed or dissolved in the mouth)
isosorbide mononitrate and isosorbide dinitrate (tablets that are swallowed, chewed, or dissolved in the mouth)
Nitrates are also found in recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite ("poppers"). If you are not sure if any of your medicines contain nitrates, or if you do not understand what nitrates are, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
What if VIAGRA doesn't work?
While VIAGRA is effective in up to 4 of 5 men (versus 1 out of 4 taking sugar pills), it's not effective for everyone. If it doesn't work for you, speak with your doctor.


Can I take VIAGRA with alcohol?
Drinking alcohol can temporarily impair the ability to get an erection. To get the best results, it is best not to drink large amounts of alcohol before taking VIAGRA.


Can I take VIAGRA after eating?
Yes, VIAGRA can be taken with or without food.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
What are the side effects of VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate)?
Like all medicines, VIAGRA can cause some side effects. These are usually mild and don't last longer than a few hours. Some of these side effects are more likely to occur with higher doses of VIAGRA. With VIAGRA, the most common side effects are headache, facial flushing, and upset stomach. VIAGRA may also briefly cause bluish or blurred vision or sensitivity to light. In the rare event of an erection lasting more than 4 hours, seek immediate medical help.


Answers for men taking VIAGRA
What do I do if I feel funny talking to my doctor about ED?
ED is a health problem. Your doctor wants to know about it to make your health and your life better.
Learn more about ED.
 

If I take VIAGRA, will I get an erection right away?
No. After a man takes VIAGRA, he still must be sexually stimulated for it to work. This can include kissing or touching. VIAGRA helps blood flow into the penis. But for VIAGRA to work, there has to be sexual stimulation. VIAGRA is not an aphrodisiac or a hormone. It’s a medicine that treats a physical condition.
Learn more about how VIAGRA works.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
Will VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate) make me have an erection for hours?
VIAGRA works by helping you get an erection in response to sexual stimulation. Once a man takes VIAGRA and has sex, his erection will go away after intercourse, just like it would normally. VIAGRA works in as quickly as 30 minutes and lasts for at least 4 hours after that. Take your time and go at your own pace. In the rare event of an erection lasting more than 4 hours, see your doctor.
Learn more about how VIAGRA works.


I don’t have ED because the problem doesn’t happen often. Does this mean that VIAGRA isn’t for me?
Even if it happens once in a while, it’s still ED. Most men with ED have it just some of the time. VIAGRA has helped more than 16 million men around the world with their ED. And VIAGRA helps control ED whether it happens often or only once in a while. Learn more about ED.


I tried VIAGRA once, but it didn’t work. Does this mean it’s not for me?
For most men, VIAGRA works the first or second time they try it. VIAGRA may work better the third or fourth time you take it, so it’s important to keep trying. You can also talk to your doctor about changing your dose. Always follow your doctor’s instructions closely when taking VIAGRA to get the best results.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
How much VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate) can I take?
VIAGRA comes in different doses (25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg). Like many medicines, your doctor may have to adjust your starting VIAGRA dose. This may be true if VIAGRA doesn't produce the desired results or if you're bothered by side effects. Do not take more VIAGRA than your doctor prescribes. In most patients, VIAGRA can be used once a day as needed.

If you are older than 65 years, have a serious liver or kidney problem, or are taking protease inhibitors, such as for the treatment of HIV, your doctor may start you at the lowest (25-mg) dose of VIAGRA.


How often can I take VIAGRA?
For most patients, VIAGRA can be taken once a day as needed. In patients taking certain protease inhibitors (such as for the treatment of HIV), it is recommended to not exceed a maximum single dose of 25 mg of VIAGRA in a 48-hour period.


Can I cut my pills in half?
VIAGRA pills are not designed to be cut in half, so there is no way to know if half a pill is effective. Cutting pills in half is not recommended.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
Can I eat whatever I want when I take VIAGRA?
VIAGRA can be taken with or without food.


Can I take VIAGRA with alcohol?
Drinking alcohol can temporarily impair the ability to get an erection. To get the most out of VIAGRA, you should not drink large amounts of alcohol before taking it.


What are the side effects of VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate)?
Like all medicines, VIAGRA can cause some side effects. These are usually mild and don't last longer than a few hours. Some of these side effects are more likely to occur with higher doses of VIAGRA. With VIAGRA, the most common side effects are headache, facial flushing, and upset stomach. VIAGRA may also briefly cause bluish or blurred vision or sensitivity to light. In the rare event of an erection lasting more than 4 hours, seek immediate medical help.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t take VIAGRA?
Men taking nitrates (including nitroglycerin for chest pains) cannot take VIAGRA. Be sure to ask your doctor if your heart is healthy enough for sexual activity.


What if I haven’t had sex in a while?
Sexual activity can be demanding on the heart. That’s why doctors sometimes determine that for men with certain heart conditions, sex is not recommended. This may be true whether or not they take medicine for ED. Men who are in poor cardiovascular health should talk to their doctor before engaging in any strenuous activity. If you are not sure of your cardiovascular health, talk to your doctor.


I can get VIAGRA on the Internet. Why should I visit my doctor?
Your health is an important part of your life and only your doctor knows your medical history. And only your doctor knows for sure if VIAGRA is right for you. He or she can also tell you how to take VIAGRA the right way to help you get the best results.

It is against the law for pharmacies in the United States to sell VIAGRA to you on the Internet without a written prescription from a doctor. If your doctor decides to prescribe VIAGRA for you, you can get it from an online pharmacy. Pfizer does not sell VIAGRA over the Internet directly. Before you use an online pharmacy, please read these Tips for filling your prescription online.

Pfizer believes in the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and recommends that you do not purchase VIAGRA on the Internet without first seeing your doctor.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
Answers for partners
Why should I be concerned about my partner’s ED?
ED may be the first sign of a related medical illness, such as heart disease or diabetes. Or it may be the side effect of a medicine your partner may be taking to lower high blood pressure or high cholesterol or to treat some other condition. Have your partner talk to his doctor about the medicines he is taking. He should never stop taking any medicine before talking to his doctor.

Also, while he may not say this to you directly, ED can affect a man’s sense of masculinity—sometimes dramatically. It may also make him distant, moody, or angry, which may put a strain on your relationship.
Learn more about what you can do for your partner.


If my partner takes VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate), how do I know he’ll be responding to me and not the drug?
When a man takes VIAGRA, he still must be sexually stimulated to get an erection. VIAGRA increases blood flow to the penis so that if he does become sexually stimulated, he is able to have an erection. Learn more about how VIAGRA works.
 

Will my partner still have an erection after sex?
VIAGRA helps a man’s body achieve what it would do on its own if he didn’t have ED. If a man takes VIAGRA and has sex, the erection should go away after intercourse just like it would normally. Learn more about how VIAGRA works.


Please see patient summary of information for VIAGRA (25-mg, 50-mg, 100-mg) tablets.
When my partner takes VIAGRA, does that mean we have to have sex right away, as soon as it becomes active?
VIAGRA works in as quickly as 30 minutes. After it becomes active, it lasts for at least 4 hours. This means that a couple has time to take things at their own pace and to be intimate before having sex.


I’m concerned that VIAGRA® (sildenafil citrate) may not be appropriate for my partner. What do I need to know to be sure?
Only your partner’s doctor can decide if VIAGRA is right for him. Long-term studies have shown that VIAGRA is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for most men. However, men taking nitrates, including nitroglycerin, should not take VIAGRA. Also, because sexual activity can be demanding on the heart, doctors sometimes determine that for men with certain heart conditions, sex is not recommended, with or without medication for ED. A doctor knows if VIAGRA is the right treatment for your loved one. Get your partner help with talking to his doctor.

Back to answers for partners

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VIAGRA is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).

Remember that no medicine is for everyone. Only your doctor can prescribe VIAGRA for you. If you use nitrate drugs, often used to control chest pain (also known as angina), don’t take VIAGRA. This combination could cause your blood pressure to drop to an unsafe or life-threatening level. Be sure to ask your doctor if your heart is healthy enough for sexual activity.

If you are older than age 65, or have serious liver or kidney problems, your doctor may start you at the lowest dose (25mg) of Viagra. If you are taking protease inhibitors, such as for the treatment of HIV, your doctor may recommend a 25mg dose and may limit you to a maximum single dose of 25 mg of Viagra in a 48 hour period.

The most common side effects of VIAGRA are headache, facial flushing, and upset stomach. Less commonly, bluish vision, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light may briefly occur.

Remember to protect yourself and your partner from sexually transmitted diseases.


Viagra is a registered trademark of Pfizer Corp.