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Oral Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction

Highlights of ViagraTM

  • First effective FDA-approved oral medication for the treatment erectile dysfunction
  • Boosts natural process of erection during arousal
  • Works across broad range of Erectile Dysfunction causes
  • Over 6 million patients have tried it
  • Approximately 250,000 doctors have prescribed it
  • Over 14 million prescriptions written
  • Over 100 million tablets dispensed
  • Unlike placebo-like drugs, ViagraTM has high refill rate

What is ViagraTM

ViagraTM (Sildenafil) works by selectively inhibiting an enzyme in the penis called Phosphodiesterase V (PDE V), a chemical that takes away the erection. By blocking PDE V temporarily, ViagraTM empowers the chemical, Nitric Oxide, that naturally initiates and produces an erection. Patients need sexual stimulation and foreplay to initiate an erection in order for ViagraTM to be effective.


How to Use ViagraTM

If taken on an empty stomach, it takes about 85 minutes for ViagraTM to be absorbed into the circulation and reach the penis. Some patients (younger men) may experience benefits from the medication as early as 30 minutes after taking it. A high fat meal will delay the absorption of ViagraTM, and therefore it is recommended that ViagraTM is taken on an empty stomach or after a lowfat meal. Furthermore, once absorbed, ViagraTM will stay in the circulation for approximately four to six hours, which represents the window of sexual opportunity. If initially not successful, patients should try ViagraTM at 100mg on 3 different occasions before concluding that the medication is ineffective.


ViagraTM Efficacy

ViagraTM is effective in two-thirds of men with erectile dysfunction regardless of age and the severity of Erectile Dysfunction However, certain groups of men using the drug do better than others. For example, spinal cord injured males have better results than patients suffering from cardiovascular disease (e.g. hypertension, high serum fat levels), and patients who have undergone treatment for prostate cancer treatment (e.g. removal of the prostate or radiation therapy) seem to benefit the least.


ViagraTM Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and well-tolerated. The following are the most common reported side effects: headache, flushing of the face, heartburn, and nasal congestion. A small percentage (3%) of people may develop visual disturbance; it may take the form of a blue haze or tinge as well as increased perception of brightness. This effect is very mild, transient, and reversible.


Who Should Not Take ViagraTM

ViagraTM is CONTRAINDICATED for patients who take any medications that contain nitrates. This includes patients who need nitrates (including nitroglycerine) on an intermittent basis for the treatment of angina.

In patients used to regular exertion, sexual activity poses no special cardiovascular risk. Even in patients who have a history of myocardial infarction (MI), there is little risk of MI during intercourse for those who exercise regularly. However, there is insufficient information on the cardiovascular risk in previously sexually inactive men who become sexually active. Stress test and/or referral to a cardiologist may be appropriate, and variables such as patient's age, medical history and existing medical conditions may be relevant.


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J. Francois Eid, M.D.
50 East 69th Street
New York, NY   10021
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info@urologicalcare.com
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Fax: 212-535-7025


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