How does that little blue pill actually work?
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If you watch TV or surf the internet, you’ve probably heard about a little blue pill that does wonders for men who are struggling to keep up in the bedroom. Yes, many people think of Viagra as a wonder drug. And it’s true that Viagra—and similar drugs that help men with erectile dysfunction—have done some great things.
So how does it work, exactly?
Viagra reminds Mr. Happy how to be, well, happy. And what makes him smile? Blood flow. As you probably remember from my video about how erections work, blood flow is vital for a healthy erection. Drugs like Viagra make sure the pathway for that blood flow is clear and ready to go within 30-60 minutes, according to the Viagra website.
After sex, Viagra leaves the body naturally via feces and urine.
What Viagra doesn’t do, however, is get your brain in the game when it comes to sexual arousal. You’ll still need to set the mood on your own. But if you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction, Viagra can make sure your body is cooperating as well.
It’s important to note that Viagra and similar drugs don’t cure ED. They just help your body produce a temporary erection long enough to get the job done. (If the erection lasts longer than that, it’s time to see a doctor!)
As with any medication, there are side effects and other potential dangers to be aware of. Some are fairly innocuous—flushing or redness, nausea, headache, runny nose, indigestion. Some are more serious—a decrease in blood pressure, exacerbating cardiovascular disease. If you’ve had a stroke or heart attack, or you’re taking medications that include nitrates, it’s best to check with your doctor before trying Viagra.
One of the more interesting potential side effects of Viagra has to do with the drug’s effect on the retina. Yes, that’s right; the little blue pill can actually make you see the world with a little more blue (and green) than normal for a few hours after you take it. That’s why pilots aren’t allowed to take Viagra within six hours of a flight.
While the little blue pill is probably the most famous, there are other similar medications on the market these days, including Cialis and Levitra. They’re not interchangeable, but their composition is somewhat similar, and they perform the same function of increasing blood flow to the right places.
Drugs like Viagra that are used to help people suffering from ED can definitely make things in the bedroom go more smoothly. As always, however, talk to your doctor about what would work best for you.