Viagra®

Viagra is authorized by Health Canada for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It helps stimulate the body’s normal response to increase blood flow to the penis. Viagra is also Health Canada approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, where it relaxes the blood vessels that are located in the chest near the lungs and heart. This ultimately reduces the workload of the heart by increasing the supply of blood to the lungs.

Viagra belongs to a group of medications called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. This class of medications ultimately increases blood flow to the penis by preventing an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type-5 from working too quickly. By controlling the enzyme, Viagra helps promotes erections in men who have difficulty getting or staying erect, making it the go to drug for erectile dysfunction.

Typically, the amount of Viagra in the bloodstream correlates to how long the effects can last. With that being said, Viagra’s effect is strongest 2-4 hours after it’s taken, and could last up to 8-12 hours. Please seek medical attention if you feel like you are experiencing a longer than expected erection that lasts more than 4 hours (priapism).

Viagra usually begins to work for erectile dysfunction within 30 minutes of taking it on an empty stomach. Taking the medication on an empty stomach is recommended due to the effect food can have on the absorption of Viagra. It then continues to work for up to 4-5 hours, with its peak effect being 1-2 hours after it’s taken. How long the medication lasts may differ depending on the individual. Keep in mind that Viagra makes it easier to get and maintain an erection, but will only work when an individual is sexually aroused.

Viagra comes in 3 doses – 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. A starting dose of 50mg is usually prescribed if you have not previously used this medication or if you are taking other medications, which may cause potential side effects. Our clinical team will decide what’s best based on your medical questionnaire. Dosing is increased/decreased as needed to achieve the desired effects while taking into account medical conditions amongst other factors.

Taking more Viagra than prescribed is considered to be too much. Even If you are planning to have sex more than once per day, you should not take more than your prescribed dose in one day. Considering there are a few options in terms of prescription dosage (25mg, 50mg or 100mg), please reach out to our providers if you feel that your prescribed dose is not working effectively.

Absolutely. According to many clinical trials, Viagra was seen to improve erections in approximately 2/3 of men. If it does not work for you the first time you take it, don’t be discouraged. Some men stated that they needed to give their body time to get used to the medication, making them try it a few times before they were able to establish whether or not it works for them. Still not satisfied with the effects of Viagra after you try it? Please reach out to our providers so that we can work with you to help you get there.

The most common reported side effects of Viagra include, but are not limited to, lowered blood pressure, dizziness, back pain, headache, muscle aches, gastrointestinal discomfort, blurred vision, flushing, stuffy or running nose, trouble sleeping and diarrhea. If these side effects become persistent and/or bothersome, please contact your provider to discuss whether or not the medication should be stopped. If you start to experience rare, but serious, side effects such as a prolonged painful erection for longer than 4 hours (priapism), sudden loss of vision, double vision, hearing problems, convulsions, trouble breathing or hives- please seek medical attention immediately.

Although Viagra (Sildenafil being the generic version) has been shown to be safe for most men, it may not be suitable with certain medical conditions, and sometimes it may be used but only if extra care is taken. For these reasons, men with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart conditions or blood vessel disease, any injury or deformity of the penis, low blood pressure or angina, history of stroke or heart attack, liver or kidney problems, bleeding conditions that cause ulcers, and any eye condition causing loss of vision, may be subject to adverse reactions. Please inform our providers if you suffer from any of these conditions or if you are taking any medications (prescribed or over the counter) that may interact with Viagra.

Before taking Viagra, please inform your provider if you are taking any medications that are known to interact with Viagra. Some prescription medications that interact with Viagra include alpha-blockers, other PDE5 inhibitors (tadalafil, vardenafil), oral antifungal medicines (ketoconazole, itraconazole), antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin), nitrates (nitroglycerin), guanylate cyclase stimulators (riociguat) and HIV protease inhibitors (ritonavir, atazanavir sulfate, saquinavir).

The primary active ingredient in Viagra® is Sildenafil Citrate. Sildenafil is the component that plays a pivotal role in managing erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.

Yes, Viagra® should not be used with any nitrate drug or nitrate medication, often prescribed for chest pain. It's also contraindicated for those with certain eye conditions, a history of stroke, or those on medications like butyl nitrate.

If you face any unexpected side effects or severe reactions, especially symptoms like chest pain or abnormal vision, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Keeping your healthcare provider informed can help adapt your treatment plan as needed.

While occasional alcohol consumption might not pose a significant risk, it is not recommended. Excessive drinking can amplify the potential side effects of Viagra® such as headaches, dizziness, or a drop in blood pressure. Alcohol can also decrease the drug's efficacy. It is advisable to consult your physician about safe alcohol limits while on this medication.

Store Viagra® in its original package in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is recommended and remember to always keep it out of reach of children.

Yes, to ensure safety and appropriate treatment, a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare practitioner is required to purchase Viagra® from any Canadian pharmacy, including online pharmacies.

Some medical conditions, like severe heart disorders, recent strokes, or uncontrolled blood pressure, might make Viagra® unsuitable. Always share your full medical history with the prescribing doctor to determine the best course of action.

Yes, the Generic Drug equivalent to Viagra® is Sildenafil. There are also other erectile dysfunction medications available, but always consult with medical professionals before switching or trying a new treatment.

Viagra® is taken as needed, so missing a dose isn't a typical concern. However, if you consume more than the maximum dose prescribed, seek medical help immediately. Overdosing can lead to severe side effects. If you ever have a prolonged erection for more than 4 hours, seek medical attention immediately.

It's generally safe to take Viagra® once a day when needed, as prescribed by your healthcare provider. However, it's vital not to exceed the maximum dose within a 24-hour period.

Viagra® is primarily prescribed for adult men and isn't recommended for individuals under 18. Elderly individuals should consult their doctor, as they might require a different starting dosage and/or special monitoring.