Viagra for erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction: what it is

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to attain or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Prevalence rises with age, but ED affects ~30% of men age 40-70. Often the first visible sign of underlying cardiovascular disease — penile arteries are smaller and develop atherosclerosis earlier than coronaries.

How Viagra fits into erectile dysfunction treatment

First-line: PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil/Viagra, tadalafil/Cialis) — effective for 60-80% of men. Lifestyle: cardiovascular fitness, weight loss, smoking cessation. Second-line: alprostadil intracavernosal or intraurethral. Third-line: penile prosthesis. Treat underlying conditions (hypogonadism, depression, vascular disease) when present.

Viagra works by: Sildenafil blocks the PDE5 enzyme, which breaks down cGMP in penile tissue. With cGMP preserved, blood vessels stay relaxed and erection is maintained when sexually stimulated. Does not cause erection without arousal.

Who qualifies for Viagra for erectile dysfunction

Adult men with ED. Contraindicated with nitrate medications (severe hypotension risk). Caution with alpha-blockers, certain antifungals, and cardiovascular disease.

How Viagra compares to other erectile dysfunction treatments

• Cialis for erectile dysfunction

  Long-acting PDE5 inhibitor. 24-36 hour duration. Daily low-dose option for spontaneity.…

Frequently asked about erectile dysfunction

What's the difference between Viagra and Cialis?

Viagra (sildenafil) works in 30-60 minutes and lasts about 4 hours — designed for on-demand use. Cialis (tadalafil) works in 30 minutes but lasts up to 36 hours, so the timing window is much wider; it can also be dosed daily for ongoing readiness. Same efficacy class, different time profile.

Are there free or low-cost ways to treat ED?

Generic sildenafil and tadalafil are widely available and cost a fraction of the brand-name versions. Telehealth platforms offer the generics at $1-5 per dose. Insurance coverage of ED treatment is plan-specific and often excludes lifestyle indications.

Can ED be a sign of heart disease?

Yes. ED frequently precedes cardiovascular events by 2-5 years because penile arteries are smaller than coronary arteries and show endothelial dysfunction earlier. New-onset ED in a man over 40 warrants a cardiovascular risk assessment.

Can I take PDE5 inhibitors if I'm on heart medication?

Nitrates (nitroglycerin, isosorbide) are an absolute contraindication — the combination can cause life-threatening hypotension. Alpha-blockers require careful timing and dose. Always disclose every cardiovascular medication you take to the prescriber.