How Viagra works

Viagra (sildenafil citrate) is a true medicinal wonder due to a number of reasons. First, its active ingredient, sildenafil, was discovered accidentally at a Pfizer lab facility in Kent, Sandwich. Originally this ingredient was intended to be used for treating a particular heart condition but later it was found to have the potential to induce erections. Then a number of clinical trials were conducted to further determine its effectiveness in producing erections. Second, Viagra helps produce erections in a way that is selective. It works on a chemical called phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5) in the penis. Now there are at least 11 types of PDE enzymes in human body and Viagra inhibits the action of only the type-5 enzyme, which is found primarily in the penis. This ensures that only the penis responds to the drug and no other part of the body is affected.

Detailed action mechanism of Viagra

The medicine basically eliminates the PDE-5 enzyme from the penis, thus aiding in building up a chemical called cGMP. This chemical plays an important role in the entire process of erection. It helps in dilating the arterial walls of the penis, which increases blood flow to the male organ. Consequently, the penis inflates like a balloon, producing a full erection. Here is a step-by-step documentation of how the drug works:

1. You swallow a Viagra pill with a glass of water.


2. Sildenafil citrate is absorbed into the bloodstream in about 30-60 minutes and produces a firm erection when you are aroused sexually. You can have complete enjoyment in the next 4 hours.


3. The active ingredient in Viagra blocks the PDE-5 enzyme and in doing so, helps retaining cGMP in the penis.


4. As long as the brain keeps sending stimulation signals to the penis, cGMP keeps working on the penile arteries to increase blood flow to the male organ. Relaxation and dilation of the penile blood vessels is the key to having a strong and firm erection.


5. The production of cGMP stops when you no longer feel sexually aroused. This is when the arteries in your penis start contracting, allowing your penis to return to its pre-erection flaccid state.

Getting the best from Viagra

Not all men get the same "hard-hitting" results from Viagra. This is because there are certain lifestyle factors which may make or break your sex life and you should focus more on disciplining your lifestyle than depending solely on a drug. Heavy drinking and binge eating can never make you a good performer in bed. You should limit alcohol consumption if you want to see a positive change in your sex life. Eating high-fat and oily diets is unhealthy and detrimental to sexual wellness of an individual. Try not to have a sumptuous meal at least 2 hours before you take Viagra. Meditation and physical exercise can help keep your mind and body fit and in sync with one another. These small lifestyle modifications won't cost you much but will surely pay you back on satisfactory terms as far as sex is concerned.