One of the best side effects of Viagra since its emergence in early 1998 is that it has served effectively as an icebreaker for men previously reluctant to discuss what they view as a weakness – erectile dysfunction , or impotence.

 

littlebluepillCountless hordes of men have consulted their healthcare providers in search of the ‘little blue pill’, which is a good thing in that they have made that first important and difficult step in facing a sensitive issue. 

Other men have turned to their best friends to share prescriptions for Viagra, which is not good since every man is different and erectile dysfunction (ED) has many causes.  Even worse… is turning to the internet for generic versions of the drug.  The source and quality of ‘knock-offs’ are often suspect.

 

However, the early ‘bloom’ and promise of viagra has dulled over the last decade with reports of its side effects - ranging from mild to totally unacceptable.  These side effects include:

Mild: (either stop taking the drug or reduce the dosage if you experience any of these symptoms)

  • facial flushing, or skin rashes
  • increased anxiety
  • headaches
  • runny nose, or nasal congestion
  • digestive problems
  • joint, or back pain

Serious: ( you should consult your healthcare provider if you experience any of these conditions)  vision problems

  • abnormalities, or changes in vision, including sensitivity to light, changes in colour perceptions, blurred or double vision
  • urinary changes or difficulties, including bladder pain, blood or cloudiness in urine, pain or increased frequency in urination
  • chest pains or shortness of breath, or changes in heart rhythm when starting sexual activities (men with heart problems should especially be cautious here)
  • dizziness
  • prolonged (lasting more that 4 hours) and/or painful erections

 

Furthermore, if you are currently taking any of the following medications, you should consult your healthcare provider before taking Viagra, since they can alter the way Viagra works in the body.  The listed medications can have serious side effects of their own and could just create more health issues:

  • Protease Inhibitors (a class of anti-HIV drugs such as Invirase, Crixivan & Norvir)
  • Cimetidine (Tagamet, an antihistamine)
  • Erythromycin (EES. or Ery-Tab, an antibiotic used for respiratory infections)
  • Itraconazole (Sporanex) or Ketaconazole (Nizoral) – both for antifungal applications

Particular caution should be taken with:

  • Nitrates / Nitrogylcerin (Nitrostat or Transderm-Nitro)

Sildenafil (Viagra) and nitrates excessively lower blood pressure when used together so if you have been prescribed nitrates for chest pain, you should NEVER use Viagra, or any other type of sildenafil (such as Cialis or Levitra).

 

In light of the various problems that can be encountered with Viagra, and similar drugs, or the exorbitant cost, many men are reconsidering the use of such medications and are searching for safer and equally effective alternatives. 

Beyond Viagra Naturally will regularly post information and articles on available options and alternatives for your review.