Viagra Side Effects List for Males
By Elaine Waller, PharmD / Last Updated:
Reviewed by Eli Coleman, PhD
Viagra (sildenafil citrate), made by Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE), is a common treatment for Erectile Dysfunction (ED), a condition affecting about 30 million men in the United States. Like many medicines, it can have unwanted effects. This Viagra side effects list for males provides a thorough look at both common and less frequent aftereffect linked to its use.
Frequent Side Effects
These are often seen in users:
- Headache: Often seen, possibly due to the medicine's widening of blood vessels.
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling): Caused by blood vessel widening, especially in the face and neck, due to nitric oxide (NO).
- Dizziness: Can be from Viagra's impact on blood pressure and its link with the autonomic nervous system.
- Indigestion (upset stomach): Some may have mild stomach issues, maybe due to changes in stomach movement.
- Nasal congestion (stuffy nose): Due to wider blood vessels in the nose, like flushing.
- Back pain: Muscle soreness, including back pain, can happen, possibly from phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) blocking in smooth muscle.
- Muscle pain: Like back pain, possibly from PDE5 blocking.
- Nausea: Some may have mild nausea, possibly due to effects on the gastrointestinal tract.
- Blurred vision or changes in color sight: Viagra can briefly affect vision, possibly due to its effects on retinal photoreceptor cells.
- Sleep problems (insomnia): Trouble falling or staying asleep may happen, possibly due to changes in neurotransmitter levels.
Less Frequent Side Effects
Besides the common ones, users might also see:
- Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION): A rare but serious eye issue that can cause sudden sight loss. The link between Viagra and NAION is debated, with the American Academy of Ophthalmology making statements on the possible risk.
- Hearing problems: Sudden hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) has been seen rarely. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned about this, especially in those with existing hearing issues.
- Priapism: A long and painful erection lasting over 4 hours, needing quick medical help. This is rare but serious and can cause lasting harm if not treated fast. It may involve problems with the normal detumescence process.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Long-term use may lead to indigestion, diarrhea, gastritis, and stomach pain. These are usually mild and manageable, possibly linked to changes in gut movement and acid production.
- Skin reactions: Rashes or itching may show as a mild allergic reaction, caused by the immune system. These are usually not severe.
- Cardiovascular effects: Rare cases of myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke (cerebrovascular accident), or irregular heartbeat have been seen, especially in those with existing heart problems like coronary artery disease. Viagra can interact with medicines used to treat these, like beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers.
- Low blood pressure (hypotension): A big drop in blood pressure can happen, especially when taken with nitrates (medicines for angina, like nitroglycerin) or other medicines, causing dizziness or fainting. This mix can be risky and should be avoided. It involves combined effects on blood vessel relaxation.
- Dry mouth (xerostomia): Some report a dry mouth. This is not common, possibly linked to anticholinergic effects.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects need quick medical help:
- Allergic reactions: Signs may include hives (urticaria), trouble breathing (dyspnea), or swelling of the face, lips, or throat (angioedema). These can be life-threatening and need quick medical help, often with epinephrine (adrenaline) and antihistamines.
- Seizures: Sudden fits or seizures may rarely happen, possibly linked to effects on the central nervous system.
- Light-headedness: Feeling faint, especially when standing, can mean a drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension). This can be a sign of a serious reaction and may need changes in medicine or lifestyle. It involves problems with the baroreceptor reflex.
Side Effects Transparency for Internet Pharmacies
Transparency regarding medication side effects is crucial for patient well-being, and this holds true for sildenafil (Viagra) as well. Clearly presenting potential adverse reactions, such as headaches, flushing, and visual disturbances, empowers men to identify and manage medication-related issues, prompting timely medical intervention when necessary. This proactive approach minimizes risks and fosters a safer medication experience. Furthermore, open communication about potential downsides, including rare but serious side effects like priapism (prolonged erection), allows patients to make educated decisions about their treatment with Viagra, strengthening their involvement in their healthcare journey.
Providing readily available information on Viagra's side effects also contributes to better treatment adherence and overall health outcomes. When men are prepared for potential issues, they are less likely to discontinue medication without consulting a healthcare professional, such as a physician or pharmacist. By equipping individuals with comprehensive medication knowledge, resources like e-pharmacies such as order-cs.com pharmacy and support-rx.com, play a vital role in promoting safe and effective Viagra usage, ultimately leading to improved impotence treatment success and a men's confidence restoration.
Closing Thoughts
While Viagra works for treating erectile dysfunction, knowing its possible side effects is key. Users should talk to their healthcare providers, like a doctor or pharmacist, if they have strong or lasting side effects, or if they have worries about interactions with other medicines they're taking. It's important to talk about your medical history and any other medicines you use with your doctor before starting Viagra. This information is for learning and is not medical advice. Always talk to a qualified healthcare professional for any health worries or before making choices about your health or treatment.
Disclaimer
The content on this website, including assessments and suggestions for pharmacies, is provided for general knowledge purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of a medical professional, nor should it be used to make decisions about your health without consulting a qualified healthcare provider.
The opinions and experiences shared on this website are those of individual users and do not represent the views of any medical or health organization. The accuracy of the content cannot be guaranteed and may not reflect the latest medical research or best practices. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health, and do not rely solely on the information presented on this website.
About Author
Elaine Waller, PharmD
Dr. Elaine Waller has substantial experience in domestic and international regulatory affairs, and in clinical research. Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance. Prior to joining Sonus Pharmaceuticals in July 2003, she was Chief Operating Officer at Radiant Research, a clinical site management organization. Dr. Waller's previous experience includes senior positions in regulatory affairs and clinical research at Hoechst Marion Roussel and Marion Merrell Dow. She began her career in academia at the University of Texas at Austin where she held teaching positions in both graduate and undergraduate pharmacy education and was Assistant Director of Clinical Research at the Drug Dynamics Institute. Dr. Waller received a B.S. in Pharmacy and a Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Missouri - Kansas City, and an M.B.A. from Rockhurst University.
Sources:
- Sildenafil - The active ingredient in Viagra, including its uses and side effects.
- Erectile Dysfunction - Information on the condition Viagra is used to treat.
- Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor - The class of drugs to which Viagra belongs, including its mechanism of action.
- Side Effects - General information about side effects related to medications, including Viagra.
- Drug Interaction - Information on how Viagra may interact with other medications.
