In 1998 Pfizer released Sildenafil, forever changing the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil, commonly known as Viagra, was one of the first, easy to use and safe medications that can help many men achieve a more satisfying sex life. This is especially important for men in their 50's and older.

As is the case with all medication, Sildenafil is not going to work for everyone. There are many reasons why a man is unable to achieve adequate erection - Sildenafil will not treat all of these situations.

Some of the common causes of erectile dysfunction include; injury to the penis or spinal chord, lack of adequate blood flow to the penis, depression and other mental health issues, age, alcohol and other drugs, obesity, cigarette smoking, and a variety of hormonal disorders.

Sildenafil will have variable efficacy for many of the above listed disorders. Sildenafil works by dilating the blood vessels that supply the penis. Because of this, it tends to work better in men who have erectile dysfunction due to lack of an adequate blood supply.
Sildenafil is not likely to work well in men who have nervous system problems, either with the penis itself, or with the spinal chord. Men who are taking anti-depressants will have variable results, depending on the severity of their problem, and the specific medications they are taking.

If it sounds like I'm being vague on the effectiveness of Sildenafil, it's because there is no way to really know if it's going to work until you try it. Sildenafil is relatively safe for most men. You absolutely CANNOT take it if you are taking nitrates, which are medications used for certain cardiovascular diseases. Men with liver failure or kidney problems should avoid Sildenafil. A recent history of a stroke or heart attack is another reason to avoid the use of Sildenafil.

Sildenafil is only available with a prescription from your doctor. It is important to have a proper evaluation by a doctor before you begin taking Sildenafil. Your doctor can help determine if Sildenafil is a medication that may be of benefit to you, or if the cause of the erectile dysfunction is due to some other cause that can be easily identified. If your doctor and you decide that Sildenafil is worth trying, he or she will likely give you a prescription for a few, just to see if they work for you.

Sildenafil is a revolutionary medication that has changed the lives of many men for the better. Despite this, it does not work perfectly in all men. Some men will see tremendous results, others will get a partial benefit, and some will see no improvement at all.

Learn more about this author, Erich Rosenberger M.D..
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