Disadvantages Of Viagra

Since its introduction in 1998, Viagra has been a boon to millions of men. There have been many positive reports on improvement in sexual health and well-being. Viagra has enough drawbacks, however, that many people fail to use it successfully, discontinue the drug after a single use, or are deterred by serious side effects.

 

It's Only Physical

According to Dr. Mike Sweeney of Pfizer, the manufacturer of Viagra, "Giving somebody a good erection doesn't necessarily give somebody good sex." Because Viagra can be so effective at improving sexual performance, couples often look to it as a solution to their relationship problems. Viagra is a remedy for only the physical aspects of impotence, however. Contrary to expectations, it cannot increase a low sex drive, help a person learn better interpersonal skills, or improve deficits in sexual know-how.

 

Dependency and Detachment

The regular use of Viagra by men who are usually not impotent can lead to a psychological dependency. Such individuals may find themselves unable to function sexually without using the drug. Furthermore, since Viagra brings on a relatively quick and effortless reaction to sexual stimulation, a man may be unable to take the time to connect with his emotional experiences or those of his partner. As a result, Viagra users may feel numb or detached during their sexual experiences.

 

Side Effects

Viagra affects blood cells and bloods vessels in the head, skin, causing annoying side effects such as headaches, flushed skin and indigestion. The more problematic side effects of the drug, which includes dizziness, hearing loss and visual effects such as blurred vision, means that the timing and necessity of driving a car or operating other machinery must be carefully considered when using Viagra. The higher the dosages of the medication, the more likely that side effects will occur.

 

Drug Interactions

Men who need Viagra often have other medical issues and there is a potential for dangerous interactions between the Viagra and their prescription medications . Combining Viagra with such medications can increase unwanted effects and hamper the activity of the medications. Drugs such as nitroglycerin used to treat heart conditions, the alpha-blockers used for prostate problems, the HIV protease inhibitors, or the street drugs known as "poppers" can lead to cardiovascular problems when combined with Viagra.

 

Risk Factors

Men with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes must exercise caution when using the drug. This is because Viagra works by causing the arteries to expand in order to encourage increased blood flow to the penis. This, in turn, affects the blood pressure and can possibly contribute to the development of an abnormal heart rate, a stroke or a heart attack, all of which can lead to sudden death.