In this Article:
01: When should you take Viagra?02: How to take Viagra correctly?03: What to avoid when taking Viagra04: What should I do if Viagra isn’t working?05: How long can I take Viagra for?06: What are the alternatives to Viagra?07: Where can I purchase Viagra?08: Advice and information to help erectile dysfunctionWhen should you take Viagra?
If you have been prescribed Viagra by a GP or purchased Viagra Connect from a pharmacy then you will have been assessed to ensure that you are safe to take Viagra.
If you have purchased Viagra Connect over the counter then you should consult your doctor within 6 months for a clinical review.
Viagra should only be taken if you have been advised it is safe to do so.
You should also stick to the dosage given to you by your GP or pharmacist and do not try to adjust this yourself.
To take Viagra for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, you should take it at least an hour before you plan on engaging in sexual activity, giving it enough time to take effect. It's also okay to take it for up to 4 hours before.
You must not take Viagra more than once in 24-hours.
How to take Viagra correctly?
Viagra can help men to achieve or maintain an erection.
You must be sexually stimulated for Viagra to work correctly.
That is why it’s best to take Viagra at least an hour before you plan on engaging in sexual activity as Viagra is to help men to maintain and achieve an erection during sexual activity.
What to avoid when taking Viagra
Viagra can interact with things which we always recommend avoiding while taking Viagra.
These include:
Alcohol
Smoking
Illicit drugs
Grapefruit juice
A full meal
Completely avoiding these when taking Viagra gives the treatment a good chance of helping you to achieve or maintain an erection without interference.
Your GP or pharmacist will also make sure that you’re not taking any other medication that may interact with Viagra but it’s still always best to be aware of these.
Medication that interacts includes:
Other ED medication
Nitrates
Some antibiotics
Antifungals
Antivirals
Alpha-blockers
Always tell your GP or pharmacist about any medication you are taking to ensure that you will be safe enough to take it.
What should I do if Viagra isn’t working?
While Viagra is an effective erectile dysfunction medication for most men, there are times when Viagra has been known to not work.
If you have taken your Viagra medication properly and followed all of the guidance on your patient information leaflet, then it’s best to discuss any problems with it not working with your GP. You must not try to adjust your dosage yourself.
Your GP may decide to increase your dosage, switch your medication, or investigate a possible underlying cause.
Underlying causes of erectile dysfunction can include physical factors such as underlying health conditions. As well as psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression.
How long can I take Viagra for?
It is safe to take Viagra as and when needed as long as you do not take it more than once in 24 hours.
There are no known lasting harmful effects of taking Viagra for extended periods.
It is always best to discuss the duration you have been on Viagra with your GP if you are concerned or to consider potential ways to treat the underlying cause.
What are the alternatives to Viagra?
Alternatives to Viagra (sildenafil) include:
Other erectile dysfunction medications such as Cialis (tadalafil) and vardenafil
Topical treatments such as Eroxon Stimgel
Devices such as vacuum pumps
Not everyone will be suitable for erectile dysfunction medications especially if you have health conditions such as heart problems, liver problems, eye disease, NAION (sudden vision loss in one eye due to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve) or you’ve recently had a stroke.
Alternative options to ED medication such as topical treatments and ED devices may be options for you to consider.
Be wary of ‘herbal Viagra’ as this has never been medically approved as a treatment and may even be dangerous.
Where can I purchase Viagra?
If you have a GP prescription for Viagra you can pick it up from your nearest pharmacy or GPhC-approved online pharmacy.
At Pharmacy2U, we are a trusted NHS partner that proudly serves hundreds of thousands of patients monthly. We give you control of all your healthcare needs including erectile dysfunction treatment.
