The name viagra is so well known, that today it is synonymous with Erectile dysfunction treatment. However, there are several misconceptions associated with viagra. Read ahead to find out its price in India, uses, side-effects, risks, and bust some blue pill myths. 

Overview

Viagra was synthesized in the 1990s by chemists at Pfizer Laboratories, Kent. As they were studying it for use in treating hypertension and angina, they noticed that it produced penile erections. A tad bit of drug repositioning later, it turned out to be one of the best-selling Erectile Dysfunction drugs in the world. 

Sildenafil or Viagra is a PDE-5 inhibitor and is often prescribed as the first line of defense against Erectile Dysfunction. It is not meant for use in women or children.

Uses

In Healthcare

1. It is clinically proven to treat men with Erectile dysfunction.

2. It is also used in treating pulmonary hypertension.

Non-medical uses

1. Viagra is widely consumed as a recreational drug, especially by young adults. 

How does Viagra work?

In layman's terms, Viagra causes smooth relaxation of muscles and arteries in the penis. When aroused, this relaxation causes an increase in blood flow to the penis, causing an erection.

Side-effects

Viagra can cause several side effects. Pfizer Ltd warns against the following serious but rare side effects:

1. Priapism: Sometimes using Viagra may cause prolonged erections. If it lasts longer than 4 hours get help immediately.

2. Vision loss: In some cases, taking Viagra may cause vision loss in one or both eyes.

3. Hearing impairment: Viagra has been reported to cause tinnitus or reduce hearing.

If you experience any of the aforementioned side effects seek help immediately. 

According to Pfizer Ltd, the commonly reported side effects are,

1. Headache

2. Flushing

3. Upset stomach

4. Abnormal vision, changes in color vision such as having a blue color tinge.

5. Blurred vision 

6. Stuffy or runny nose

7. Back pain

8. Muscle pain

9. Nausea

10. Dizziness

11. Rash

These are mild symptoms and usually go away without any medical attention.

Risks to consider

Men who have any of the following risks are recommended to consult a doctor before taking Viagra.

1. History of heart problems, heart surgeries, or angina.

2. History of stroke.

3. Issues with blood pressure, either too low or too high.

4. Illnesses affecting blood cells, such as sickle cell anemia or leukemia.

5. History of vision loss.

6. Have had liver or kidney problems.

7. Have stomach ulcers.

8. Have any other issues with the penile function including deformed penis shape.

Viagra interacts with a wide range of medicines. Talk to your doctor about all medicines you take. Interaction with drugs that contain Nitroglycerin, Isosorbide Dinitrate, Isosorbide Mononitrate, or Nicorandil can potentially be fatal.

Viagra Price in India

The price of Viagra in India for a strip of two 100mg tablets is around Rs.900. 

Be wary of duplicate or counterfeit products. While these cost less than Viagra, they may contain harmful ingredients like printer ink or rat poison. To purchase genuine Viagra by Pfizer Ltd click here.

Viagra common myths

#1. Viagra gives an instant erection.

False, Viagra needs to be taken at least 30 minutes before to produce desired effects.

#2. Viagra boosts libido.

Viagra is not an aphrodisiac and does nothing to increase sex drive on its own.

#3. Viagra gives you dangerously long erections.

In most cases, Viagra only works until you are sexually aroused and goes away when you are not. However, it might cause Priapism in some cases, usually only when combined with other penile treatments. 

Final thoughts

Viagra is an effective medicine in treating erectile dysfunction in men. Be sure to go through the risks and side effects it may cause before taking the blue pill.