Reviewed by: Daniel Williams, MD
Great For Men
Viagra is a well-known drug used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It is wildly popular because men in many different age brackets and various ranges of health can safely take this drug and bring back the ability to participate in sexual activity. Since Viagra can be taken as needed, patients do not have to worry about taking it on a regular schedule. They only need to take it about an hour or so in advance of sexual activity.
What About Viagra For Women?
Because Viagra has been such a successful treatment for erectile dysfunction in men, women are wondering about the use of the drug for themselves. Is there a Viagra for women? Although there are many claims made by unscrupulous websites touting various products to be “the Viagra for women”, the real Pfizer Viagra has not been approved for use in females. While studies are being conducted in the
Reactions to Viagra
Although Viagra’s effectiveness has been proven for men, it does have the potential for side effects and drug interactions. Extremely dangerous reactions, even death, can occur when used by men who take any type of nitrate medication. When a man taking nitrate medications ingests Viagra, it can interact, causing a drop in blood pressure, which could lead to heart attacks or worse. It also can interact with several different types of other medications as well, such as antibiotics. Additionally, it is advisable to watch for side-effects, such as: dizziness, nausea, numbness, and tingling. Men should also talk to their doctors about the effects of Viagra in relation to any conditions they may have. Doctors pay special attention to conditions such as blood disorders, liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, and high or low blood pressure.
Use By Women Requires Further Testing
Prior to coming to the market, Viagra was thoroughly tested with regard to drug interactions. However, all the research was directed toward men. Therefore, the possible interactions with medications that women take are unknown, and the safety of Viagra for women is also unknown.. In addition, medications that are used by women must undergo additional testing to determine whether the drug can affect pregnancy or be passed through breast-milk from the mother to the child. Until more testing is done on the effects of the drug, there is no indicated use of Viagra for women.
There are many different options available for women that are intended to enhance sexual activity and experiences, but Viagra is not one of them. If it is determined that Viagra for women meets explicit criteria, it may come to the United States to undergo the rigorous additional trials by the FDA, including the generous amounts of time needed to understand the interactions and long-term effects of the drug. Unless and until the drug passes these tests and is approved of for use by the FDA, the dispensing of Viagra for women is not possible or advised. For now, Viagra is a drug that should only be used by men to ensure safety and effectiveness.
