Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) is a drug to treat erectile dysfunction. Viagra marketing has saturated the media, and as a side effects, sometimes it's hard to find straight answers.

The following frequently asked questions began as a variation ofthe faq developed by CDER's Drug Information Branch. As more and more visitors supply new questions, this list will grow.

What is Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) for?

Viagra is a drug used in the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction. It has been approved for the treatment of men who have difficulty having and maintaining an erection (impotence).

Viagra increases the body’s ability to achieve and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation. Viagra does not protect you from getting sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.

When was Viagra introduced in the US?

Viagra was introduced in spring of 1998.

Is Viagra available at my local pharmacies?

Availability is completely up to the company marketing the product. For further information contact your pharmacist or Pfizer, Inc. directly.

How much does Viagra cost?

Pricing for Viagra is constantly changingand varies based upon point of purchase.

Will insurance cover the cost of Viagra?

Within two months of its entrance into the U.S. market, more than one half of the prescriptions for Viagra received insurance coverage. Please call you insurance company if you have questions about whether your particular insurance provider will cover the cost of this product for you.

How does Viagra work?

Viagra works by stimulating and enhancing the effects of one of the chemicals the body normally releases into the penis during sexual arousal. This allows an increase of blood flow into the penis, and results in an improvement erection.

How do I take Viagra?

Viagra is taken orally as a once daily dose, one hour before sexual activity. For more detailed information consult with your health care provider.  Note: We've found good success taking Viagra anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity.

How is Viagra be supplied?

Viagra is available as an oral tablet (25mg, 50mg and 100mg strengths).  Recently Viagra has become commonly available in lozenge form as well.

Will Viagra be prescription or over the counter (OTC)?

Viagra will be available by prescription only.

Are there any side effects with Viagra?

As with any drug products, there are side effects of the product in some people. The most commonly reported side effects in patients treated with Viagra during the testing of the product were: headache, flushing, stomach ache, and mild and temporary visual changes (color perception changes, light perception changes, and blurred vision).

Can Viagra be used with other treatment for impotence?

According to the CDER, "The safety and effectiveness of Viagra when used with other treatment for impotence has not been studied. The use of such treatments in combination with Viagra is not recommended at present."

What if I am taking other drugs?

According to the CDER, "Always discuss with your health care practitioner ALL of the medications you are taking (prescription and over-the-counter). In that way, you can receive the best advice for your own situation. At present, Viagra is not recommended for people taking nitroglycerin because the combination may lower blood pressure".

Who should not take Viagra?

Men who are currently using medicines that contain nitrates, such as nitroglycerin should not use Viagra.  These medicines when taken in conjunction with Viagra can lower the blood pressure too much.

Viagra should not be used by women or children.