Branded drugs like Viagra are used by men for treating erectile dysfunction problems. Erectile dysfunction is a sexual difficulty that arises because of a lack of blood flow to the penile. Adequate blood flow is necessary for attaining and maintaining erections. Viagra drugs increase the flow of blood to the penile by causing vasodilation of the blood vessels, thereby increasing sexual function.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED), commonly known as impotence problems in men is an inability that makes it difficult to get or maintain firm erections. This condition is characterized by failure to indulge in sexual interaction, owing to weak erections. It is indeed a distressing condition that arises due to insufficient blood circulation to the penile, owing to the blockage formation in the vascular passages of the penile, which prevents the flow of blood to the penile shaft. The blockages are a result of some enzymatic action in the walls of penile blood vessels.
What is Viagra?
These are Food and drug administration (FDA) approved drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction issues in men. Viagra is a brand name for Sildenafil, which is a drug that is clinically proven for causing vasodilation in the penile and therefore improve the erectile response. They are composed in the form of pills and the effects of a single pill of Viagra remain active in the body for around 4 to 5 hours. One must swallow the pill with some water, approximately 30 minutes before an anticipated intimate interaction.
Viagra Drugs
Usually, Viagra drugs cost too high. They are too expensive and not affordable for everyone. But there are Viagra (Sildenafil) generics that are available. These generic substitutes are known for producing identical effects to Viagra on sexual performance. They work similarly to Viagra, as they contain the same active ingredient, which is Sildenafil. Hence, men can make use of Sildenafil generics such as Malegra, in restoring their sexual function during arousal.
How does Viagra work?
Viagra has been pharmacologically classified under the group of Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. The role of PDE5 inhibitors is to suppress the activity of Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzymes in the smooth muscle cells of the vascular walls of the penile. These enzymes lead to hindrance of blood flow in the penile arterial passages by clogging and narrowing the blood vessels. The blood flow gets hindered due to the constriction of blood vessels.
PDE5 Enzymes
But Viagra’s action efficiently stops the action of PDE5 enzymes in the arterial walls. Its inhibition causes the release of a powerful substance known as Nitric oxide (NO) into the penile tissues. Nitric oxide aids in the synthesis and rise of the levels of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) enzymes that are responsible for relaxing the blood vessels.
Further, it overcomes vascular blockages by managing constriction and causing vasodilation in the penile. This relaxation further allows chambers inside the penile to get drenched with blood. There, cGMP metabolized through the PDE5 inhibition action of Viagra helps restore the erection function.
Viagra and alcohol interactions
The combination of Viagra and alcohol may potentiate the risk of side effects. Both these components are vasodilators, that aid in relaxing the constriction and straining of the vascular system and reduce blood pressure. The relaxation in the blood vessels lowers the blood pressure, which results due to the narrowing and hardening of the blood vessels.
Alcohol
When you drink alcohol, it somewhat reduces blood pressure and enhances relaxation. Whereas Viagra pill causes a significant drop in blood pressure. A combination of both these substances leads to a severe drop in blood pressure. It depends on whether you drink less or excessively. A low amount of alcohol in combination with Viagra can cause mild side effects like dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, fainting, and blurry vision.
Viagra pills do have several side effects, but the combination of alcohol worsens these side effects even more. Those who drink excessively must avoid using Viagra, as their interaction can lead to a steep drop in blood pressure. This sudden blood pressure drop puts an individual in a life-threatening position. It can even cause death due to organ failure. This is why one must avoid combining them.
Signs of low blood pressure
After taking the Viagra pill, you may experience common side effects such as headache, dizziness, blurry vision, stomach pain, nasal congestion, and palpitations. But post Viagra and alcohol interaction, you will experience these side effects of Viagra more intensely. Alcohol exacerbates the side effects of Viagra even more.
Those who are excessively drunk should avoid taking Viagra, as their combination can cause sudden blood pressure drop, leading to organ failure, which can even cause sudden death. If you experience any of these symptoms, then rush to your doctor immediately, this will prevent detrimental effects on your health.
Talk to an expert
If you find it difficult to give up your drinking habits, then it is best to ask your primary healthcare provider regarding the usage of Viagra while drunk. They might help you gain clarity on how many drinks are safe to go with Viagra. Also, those having chronic health issues must ask their healthcare provider whether Viagra pills are suitable for them or not. Using them without making your doctor aware of your health issues and drinking habits will increase your health risk. So, it is wise to discuss every little thing about your health and habits with your doctor, before using Viagra.