MedExpress

If you’re thinking of taking Viagra, you may be wondering what to expect. It’s important that you take it correctly to get the best results, and it’s also helpful to know how long the effects last. 

Our experts break down how to take Viagra, how long it lasts and what factors affect it. 

What is Viagra?

Viagra is the most popular pill for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (male impotence). This is when a man cannot get or maintain erections hard enough for penetrative sex.

Viagra contains the active ingredient sildenafil, which is a PDE5 inhibitor. PDE5 is an enzyme your body produces which can reduce blood flow into your penis. PDE5 inhibitors stop this enzyme being released, improving blood flow to your penis and helping you get erections when you’re aroused.

When should you take Viagra?

You should take Viagra around an hour before sexual activity, as the average time it takes to work is around 30-60 minutes. Think in advance about when you expect to have sex and take a pill then. 

How long does Viagra last?

Viagra continues to help you get an erection for around four hours after you’ve taken it, so you don’t need to rush things.

Unlike the effects often shown in pop culture, Viagra only works when you’re feeling sexually aroused. You won’t have a constant erection when you take it. 

Factors that affect how long Viagra lasts

• Dosage – The amount of Viagra you take affects how long it lasts. The smallest dose (25 mg) won’t last as long as the largest dose (100 mg). It’s important to speak to our clinical team before taking a higher dose, as it may not be safe for you.

   

• Age – The older you get, the more your metabolism slows down. This means that Viagra could last longer as you get older.

   

• Medications – Some medications can cause drug interactions when you take them with Viagra. It’s best to check with your doctor if you’re thinking about taking Viagra and tell them about any medication you’re taking (especially for diabetes and high blood pressure).

   

• Food – You should avoid eating before taking Viagra. Eating a heavy or high-fat meal before taking the drug can make it take longer to work.

   

• Medical conditions – Diabetes and heart conditions like atherosclerosis can make Viagra less effective.

   

• Alcohol – Drinking alcohol decreases blood flow to your penis. Excessive alcohol consumption can affect erections, whether you have erectile dysfunction or not.

   

• Illegal drugs – Drugs may, like alcohol, affect how well Viagra works, so it’s best to avoid them. It’s also important not to mix Viagra with amyl nitrate, or ‘poppers’, as this can have negative side effects.

   

• Mental health – If you’re feeling stressed or anxious, or have performance anxiety, Viagra may not work for you.

   

Can I do anything to make Viagra last longer?

A number of lifestyle factors can affect Viagra’s efficiency. By changing some of your behaviours, you might be able to affect how well Viagra works.

Get fit – Losing weight and getting into shape can help make Viagra more effective, allowing blood to flow more efficiently around your body. 

Drink less alcohol – Excessive drinking has long been associated with erectile dysfunction, so reducing your alcohol intake can make getting erections easier.

Don’t smoke – Smoking is linked to erectile dysfunction because it can damage blood vessels. Quitting smoking may help you get the best results from Viagra.

Reduce stress – Try and find ways to relax before sexual activity, like practising mindfulness, or spending time with your partner. 

How long does Viagra stay in your system?

Viagra will remain in your system for around 24 hours, but the effects are reduced after around 4-5 hours.

How often should you take Viagra?

You should only take Viagra once in a 24-hour period. This means one pill, no matter the dosage. It’s also important you never take Viagra alongside other erectile dysfunction drugs as this can cause physical damage to your penis.

If your prescription doesn’t seem to be working, don’t be tempted to ‘double up’ the dosage. This can have adverse effects and do more harm than good. If Viagra doesn’t work for you the first time, speak to our clinical team — they may either increase your dosage or recommend an alternative treatment.

What Viagra dosage should I take?

Viagra comes in three doses: 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg. The recommended starting dose is one 50 mg tablet. 100 mg is the maximum dosage, but if you want a high starting dose, it’s important that you’re fit and have no health conditions.

I’m not getting the Viagra effects I want – can I take more than one tablet?

No, you should never take more than your prescribed dosage of Viagra. If it’s not working as well as you’d like, consult with your clinical team. Remember, it can take a while for your body to adjust to taking Viagra, so don’t be disheartened if it doesn’t work for you the first time.

What are the best alternatives to Viagra?

There is a range of alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction, including:

• Cialis: Contains the active ingredient Tadalafil and offers a long-lasting solution to erectile dysfunction.

• Sildenafil: Sildenafil is the generic form of Viagra. It doesn’t have a premium brand name, so it’s available at a much lower price.

• Spedra: Spedra is the fastest acting ED medication, you can take it just 15 minutes before having sex.

Find out what treatment is suitable for you on our website.