Sildenafil: What It Is and How It Works

Sildenafil is a pill most people know by the brand name Viagra. It belongs to a group of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors. When you take it, the medicine relaxes blood vessels in the penis, letting more blood flow in. That extra flow helps you get and keep an erection when you’re sexually excited. It doesn’t work automatically – you still need stimulation for it to work.

How to Take Sildenafil Properly

First, get a prescription from a doctor. That way you know the right strength for you, usually 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg. Take the tablet about 30 minutes to an hour before you plan to be intimate. Swallow it whole with a glass of water – don’t crush or chew it.

Food can change how fast the drug works. A heavy, fatty meal may slow it down, so you might feel the effect a bit later. If you’re trying to be quick, aim for a lighter snack or none at all. You only need one dose per day – taking more won’t make the effect stronger and can increase side effects.

Don’t mix sildenafil with certain other meds, especially nitrates used for heart problems. The combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. If you’re on any heart meds or have heart disease, talk to your doctor before starting sildenafil.

Common Side Effects and When to Seek Help

Most people feel fine, but some notice mild side effects. The typical ones are headache, facial flushing, upset stomach, and a slight blue‑tint to vision. These usually go away on their own within a few hours.

Serious problems are rare but need immediate attention. If you get a painful erection that lasts longer than four hours, call emergency services – that’s called priapism and can damage tissue. Also, seek help if you notice sudden vision loss, hearing changes, or chest pain.

Keep a short list of your symptoms and when they started. This helps your doctor decide if the dose needs adjusting or if another treatment might work better for you.

Remember, sildenafil is meant for occasional use, not a daily habit unless your doctor says otherwise. Using it too often can lessen its effectiveness and increase side‑effect risk.

In short, sildenafil can be a helpful tool for many men dealing with erectile dysfunction. Get a proper prescription, follow the dosing tips, watch for side effects, and stay in touch with your health provider. With the right approach, you’ll have a safer, more effective experience.