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Men's
Health
> Viagra
Viagra
Viagra®
Important
Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the
expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is
safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before using this drug.
Uses
Viagra is used to treat male sexual function problems (erection dsyfunction).
It allows increased blood to flow into the penis, necessary to achieve and
maintain an erection.
How to Use
Depending upon the individual, Viagra is taken by mouth between four hours
and up to one-half hour before sexual activity (about one hour before is
most effective). Take only as directed. The manufacturer recommends one dose
per day. Viagra causes erections only during sexual excitement. It does not
work in the absence of arousal.
Side Effects
Serious side effects could include: shortness of breath, difficulty
breathing, dizziness, or an allergic reaction (swelling of the throat, lips,
tongue or face). If these effects are present, seek medical attention
immediately. Less serious side effects include: Headache, flushing, stomach
upset, nasal stuffiness, diarrhea and dizziness. If these effects persist or
worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Precautions
Before using Viagra, tell your doctor your medical history, including any
allergies (especially drug allergies), any penis conditions such as
fibrosis/scarring, history of painful/prolonged erection (priapism), sickle
cell anemia, blood system cancers (such as leukemia or myeloma), or
Peyronie's disease, eye problems (retina diseases). kidney or liver disease,
bleeding disorders or active stomach ulcers, heart diseases, stroke or
severe high or low blood pressure. Limit alcohol intake, as it may aggravate
side effects of this drug. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when
rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. The elderly may be
more sensitive to the side effects of this drug; therefore, caution is
advised in this group.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may
use, especially any nitrate medications (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide
dinitrate), nitroprusside (any "nitric oxide donor" medicines), cimetidine,
erythromycin, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole),
mibefradil, rifamycins (e.g., rifampin), high blood pressure medicines, any
other drug used to treat impotence, such as alprostadil (Caverject, Muse,
Edex) or yohimbine (Yocon, Yodoxin, others);
Notes
Do not share Viagra with others, since they may have a problem that is not
effectively treated by this drug. Use of this drug does not protect against
sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B, gonorrhea).
Missed Dose
Viagra is not for regular use. Take it only before sexual activity.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away
from light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of
children. |
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