More than ten men have recently been reported dead after taking Viagra also famously referred to as, the ‘’blue pill’’ with some even dying during sex. Interestingly, the manufacturers insist it’s safe. However, is it really safe? Well, here are some clarifications that will help you with that.
It’s not for everyone
Are you experiencing chest pains, suffering low blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, or you’ve had a heart attack within the last year or so? Then you are most likely not fit for this medication. It is advisable for you to speak to your doctor first, even with his most probable answer is most likely a NO! This is because Viagra can result into an adverse reaction in those that have certain medical conditions or are under certain conflicting medications.
How it works
The actions of an enzyme known as CGMP-specific phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5) are blocked by sildenafil. The enzyme then breaks down CGMP which is responsible for relaxing the smooth muscles. By doing this there will increased levels of CGMP within the smooth muscles which promotes muscle relaxation and vasodilation. PDE-5 are found in penis, retina, and lungs in high levels.
Get the timing right
The dose should be taken an hour before sexual activity. Also ensure a minimum of two hours between the last thing you eat and ingesting the tablet.
It may not work the first time you take it
People think this pill is magic, you take it and immediately you have an erection. On the contrary, that is not the case. You’ll have to make two to three attempts to see whether it works for you. It’s even advised that you first try it on your own and self-stimulate before trying it with your partner.
Side effects
If you are between 18 and 60 these are the side-effects you are most likely to experience.
- Headache, muscle or back pain, flushing, dyspepsia and visual disturbances.
- A drop in blood pressure, nosebleeds, runny nose, insomnia, and nasal congestion. In other cases hearing loss has been reported.
- In some rare case it might decrease blood flow to the optic nerve causing sudden vision loss with the risk being greater in people aged 50 and above, those with heart disease, diabetic, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and those who smoke or have some underlying eye conditions.
- Can rarely lead to painful erections that last longer than four hours.
- Viagra does not offer any protection against any sexually transmitted disease.
Viagra, blue pill, or the magic pill may be a means to an end but not an end in itself, so next time you are thinking of using it, kindly ensure you have made the above considerations first.
