Medical Review by Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM

Summary:

• Viagra® does not increase the size of the penis; it aids in achieving and maintaining an erection. Its active ingredient, sildenafil, works by increasing blood flow to the penis, essential for those with erectile dysfunction (ED).
• Viagra® typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes to start working, with effects lasting up to four hours. Factors like food intake, alcohol consumption, and individual health conditions can affect how quickly it begins to work.
• Unlike aphrodisiacs that boost sexual desire, Viagra® requires physical stimulation and sexual arousal to be effective. It assists in the physiological process of erection but does not increase sexual desire.
• Exceeding the recommended dosage of Viagra®, which ranges from 25 to 100 mg, can lead to serious side effects without enhancing effectiveness. Overdosing risks include priapism, vision disturbances, and heart complications.
• Viagra® is not just for older men; it’s used by men of all ages for various reasons, including psychological and health-related ED. Recreational use without prescription is risky, potentially leading to side effects and undermining the medication’s intended purpose.

Viagra® myths vs. reality

As one of the world’s most popular medications for treating erectile dysfunction (ED), Viagra® gets a lot of attention—but sometimes that comes with misinformation as well. While there’s plenty of credible information publicly available about Viagra®, it can be challenging to sort out the myths from the hard facts.

You might be wondering whether Viagra® makes your penis bigger, whether it takes effect immediately, or whether it can be used recreationally without any risks. Below, our team of US-based medical practitioners at Lemonaid Health reveals the truth behind some of the most widespread misconceptions about Viagra® and its use.

Myth 1: Viagra® makes your penis bigger

Contrary to popular belief, Viagra® does not increase the size of the penis. It simply aids in achieving a firmer and more sustainable erection for men who struggle with ED. The perception of increased size may come from improved erectile quality, but the actual physical dimensions of the penis remain unchanged.

What Viagra® really does

• Sildenafil (the generic name for Viagra®) works by increasing blood flow to the penis.
• It functions by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5).
• Inhibiting PDE5 allows the muscles in the penis to relax so blood can flow to them more effectively.
• This helps men with erectile dysfunction (ED) have an erection when sexually stimulated.

Myth 2: Viagra® works instantly

Viagra® typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes to start working, and its effects can last up to four hours. However, this can vary depending on the individual and certain factors such as age, metabolism, and other health conditions.

Factors that can change how fast Viagra® works

The onset time of Viagra® can be influenced by several factors. For instance, taking Viagra® on a full stomach, especially after a high-fat meal, can delay its absorption and hence, delay its effect. Alcohol consumption and overall health also play roles in how quickly and effectively the medication works.

Myth 3: Viagra® is an aphrodisiac

It’s crucial to understand that Viagra® is not an aphrodisiac. Aphrodisiacs are substances that increase sexual desire or libido. Viagra® does not increase sexual desire; instead, it assists in achieving an erection through physical stimulation and sexual arousal.

Why Viagra® requires sexual arousal to work

For Viagra® to be effective, sexual arousal is necessary. It won’t cause an erection just by taking the pill. The medication facilitates the physiological process that leads to an erection, which must be triggered by sexual stimulation.

Myth 4: taking more Viagra® increases its efficacy

Taking more Viagra® than prescribed can be dangerous. 

Recommended dosages for Viagra®

Viagra® is usually prescribed in doses ranging from 25 to 100 mg. Exceeding the recommended dosage can increase the risk of adverse effects without increasing the medication’s effectiveness.

Potential side effects from overdosing

Overdosing on Viagra® can lead to severe side effects such as:

• Priapism (a prolonged, painful erection)
• Vision disturbances
• Heart complications resulting from low blood pressure

It’s critical to adhere to the prescribed dosage and consult a doctor for any adjustments.

Myth 5: Viagra® is only for older men

Erectile dysfunction is not exclusive to older men. While ED is more common as men age, it can affect men of all ages. Various factors like stress, mental health issues, lifestyle choices, and other health conditions can contribute to ED in younger men.

Other reasons younger men use Viagra®

Younger men might use Viagra® for a variety of reasons, including as a treatment for ED due to psychological factors like anxiety or depression, lifestyle-induced ED, or medical conditions. It’s a tool for managing a symptom, regardless of the patient’s age.

Myth 6: Viagra® can be used recreationally without risks

It’s vital to take medications like Viagra® only as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Misusing or abusing prescription drugs can have serious health consequences and can mask underlying health issues that need medical attention.

Potential side effects and dangers of recreational use

Recreational use of Viagra® without a prescription or medical necessity can lead to potential risks and side effects. These include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Heart problems
• Interactions with other medications

Using Viagra® recreationally also undermines its intended purpose and can lead to psychological dependency.

Use Viagra® safely with guidance from our online medical team

Although Viagra® is an effective treatment for ED, it’s surrounded by numerous myths and misconceptions. It’s important to have accurate information and consult with healthcare professionals for safe and effective use.

Lemonaid Health’s online medical team is available to discuss with you how Viagra® may be appropriate for your needs. Let us help you make more informed decisions about your medications.

Viagra® is a registered trademark of Pfizer Inc.