Sildenafil – What It Is and How It Works

If you’ve heard the name Viagra, you’re probably hearing about sildenafil. It’s a pill that helps men with erectile dysfunction (ED) get an erection when they’re sexually aroused. The drug works by relaxing blood vessels in the penis, letting more blood flow in so the tissue can become firm.

Sildenafil doesn’t create desire; it just supports the body’s natural response once you’re already turned on. That’s why timing matters – you need to take it about 30‑60 minutes before intimacy and give it a few hours to work.

How to Take Sildenafil Correctly

The usual starting dose for most men is 50 mg, but doctors may suggest 25 mg or 100 mg depending on health factors and how you respond. Swallow the tablet whole with water; don’t crush it or mix it into drinks.

Food can slow down absorption, especially a big fatty meal. If you’ve had a heavy dinner, expect the pill to take longer to kick in. For best results, aim for a light snack or no food at all before taking it.

If you’re on other meds – particularly nitrates for chest pain – avoid sildenafil completely. The combination can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure. Always tell your doctor about any heart medicines, antibiotics, or herbal supplements you use.

Potential Side Effects & Safety Tips

Most men feel fine after taking sildenafil, but some notice headaches, facial flushing, upset stomach, or blurry vision. These usually fade as your body gets used to the drug. If you get a painful erection lasting more than four hours (priapism), seek medical help right away.

Alcohol in moderation won’t ruin the effect, but drinking too much can lower blood flow and make the pill less effective. Also, smoking narrows blood vessels, which defeats part of what sildenafil is trying to do.

When buying online, stick to reputable pharmacies that require a prescription. Look for sites with clear contact info, verified pharmacist reviews, and secure checkout. Avoid places that promise “no prescription needed” – they’re likely selling counterfeit products that could be unsafe.

Keep the medication out of reach of children and store it at room temperature away from excess heat or moisture. If a pill looks discolored or broken, discard it and get a fresh one.

In short, sildenafil can restore confidence in the bedroom when used correctly. Talk to your doctor about the right dose, watch for side effects, and choose a trusted online pharmacy if you need a refill. With a little care, the pill does exactly what it promises – helps you enjoy intimacy again.