Medically reviewed by Dr. Sam Ward
Written by Anne-Sophie Laignel
Last updated 11/5/2024 - 6 min read
Sildenafil, more commonly known as Viagra, is one of the most widely used medications for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). The 100 mg form is often prescribed for moderate to severe cases of ED when lower doses are not sufficient. But how exactly does Sildenafil 100 mg work? And, more importantly, how long does its effect last? This article will explore in detail the mechanism of action of this medication, its duration of effect, and how it can improve the quality of life for men, and their partners, affected by erectile dysfunction.
Sildenafil belongs to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors. Its main role is to facilitate blood flow in the penis to allow an erection in response to sexual stimulation. To better understand this, let's see how an erection occurs naturally.
When a man is sexually stimulated, his body releases nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes smooth muscles and dilates blood vessels in the penis. This allows an influx of blood, causing an erection. However, in men with erectile dysfunction, this natural response is disrupted. This is where Sildenafil comes into play: by inhibiting the PDE-5 enzyme, it helps to maintain high levels of nitric oxide, which prolongs the dilation of blood vessels and facilitates the achievement and maintenance of an erection.
Sildenafil 100 mg is generally taken about one hour before any planned sexual activity. It starts to work after about 30 to 60 minutes, although this time can vary from one person to another depending on factors such as diet and overall health.
The medication does not cause an instant erection. In fact, it is only effective when there is sexual stimulation. If you are not aroused, there will be no erection, even after taking Sildenafil.
One of the most common questions about Sildenafil is how long it lasts. After ingestion, the effects of Sildenafil 100 mg can last between 4 to 6 hours. This does not mean that you will have a continuous erection for this entire time, but rather that you will be able to achieve an erection with sexual stimulation during this period.
That said, the duration of the effect can vary depending on several factors, such as:
Although Sildenafil is a widely used and generally well-tolerated medication, it can cause side effects. The most common ones include headaches, hot flashes, temporary visual disturbances (bluish vision), and indigestion. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as prolonged erection (priapism) may occur, especially in combination with illicit drugs. If this happens, immediate medical assistance is necessary.
It is essential to never take Sildenafil without a medical prescription and without consulting a doctor, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions such as heart problems, hypertension, or if you are taking nitrate medications.
Sildenafil 100 mg is often the prescribed dose for men who have already tried lower doses without success. This higher dose may provide quicker and more effective results for those who need it. However, it is recommended to start with a lower dose, such as Sildenafil 50 mg, under a doctor's supervision, to determine the optimal dosage.
To get a prescription tailored to your needs, try the teleconsultation services of Kano, where you can get an online medical evaluation and receive a prescription directly without waiting. Don't wait any longer to regain a fulfilling sex life.
There are several other treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardenafil (Levitra), and penile injections. However, Sildenafil remains the most popular option due to its rapid effectiveness and relatively long duration of action. Compared to Tadalafil, for example, which can last up to 36 hours, Sildenafil is preferred for those who want a one-time solution with an action window of only a few hours.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you regularly experience difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection. Erectile dysfunction can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes or heart disease. An accurate diagnosis is essential to choose the most appropriate treatment.
If you think that Sildenafil 100 mg might be a solution for you, consult our partner doctors at Kano. You can get an online consultation discreetly and receive your prescription quickly.
Sildenafil 100 mg is an effective and widely used treatment for erectile dysfunction. It helps men regain an active sex life by improving the ability to achieve and maintain an erection. With an effective duration of 4 to 6 hours, it offers a temporary but effective solution for men suffering from erectile dysfunction. However, it is crucial to consult a professional before starting any treatment.
Ready to take the first step towards a fulfilling sex life? Contact Kano now for an online consultation and get your prescription quickly, with complete discretion.
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It is imperative to never take Sildenafil without the advice and prescription of a doctor, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions such as heart disorders, hypertension, or if you are on nitrate-based medication.