Bursting the Myths about the Sex Pill, ‘Viagra’

Performance in bed is a major factor to keep your relationship intact. Though the sex pills were first introduced for men who had erectile dysfunction, myths about this are prevalent that are cleared by our expert, Dr. Rahul Reddy.

Performance in bed is a major factor that can drive many men crazy. But worrying about their performance in bed can lead to anxiety which can cause sexual dysfunction. Though the sex pills were first introduced for men who had erectile dysfunction, myths about this pill took turns where many youngsters now imagine that taking this pill will work wonders on their performance in bed.

Jumping to the facts about how these sex pills, (PDE5 Inhibitors) work and how they have come to limelight as pills that increase one’s performance in bed, ETV Sukhibhava contacted Dr. Rahul Reddy, andrologist to understand more about these sex pills and their actual purpose.

What are these Sex Pills and why are they prescribed?

These PDE5 Inhibitors (Sex Pills under the brand name Viagra) were prescribed for people who had Pulmonary Hypotension. But while people started using these drugs, they reported 'good erection' and that’s how these pills were prescribed for people who have erectile dysfunction.

How many varieties of such drugs are available in India?

In India, three such drugs namely sildenafil, Tadalafil, and Vardenafil are the most commonly available drugs that are prescribed for erectile dysfunction. But the usage is different for all the three drugs. Sildenafil doesn’t treat erectile dysfunction, but it works by temporarily increasing the blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, Tadalafil can treat erectile dysfunction while taking in lower dosage and Vardenafil acts similar to Tadalafil, but the only bonus is, it comes with fewer side effects.

What are the basic Myths about these Pills?

Many imagine this pill to increase their performance in bed. NO! This pill will not do any miracles on the performance part. These pills can treat men with erectile dysfunction and when sildenafil (Viagra) is taken one hour before intercourse, it helps in increasing blood flow to the penis which helps in having an erection. The action of this pill can last for 6-8 hours.

Can Women take this Pill too?

Yes, women can take this pill, but the pills advised for females are different from males. Females with Hypoactive sexual desire disorder are given these pills (Flibanserin) and are advised to use them when they want to have sexual intercourse. These pills work by increasing female’s sexual desire in those who lack it.

Can you take it daily?

Whenever men or women prefer having intercourse, these pills (sildenafil’s) are advised as they help in temporary erection in men and help with arousal in women (Flibanserin).

What happens when men without ED take this pill?

In men without ED, the side effects of this pill (Headache, nausea, abnormal vision, and muscle stiffness) are more than compared to the benefits. Which is why these pills should be taken only with a proper prescription.

What should one understand about these Sex Pills?

Both men and women need to understand that these PDE5 inhibitors are drugs that are used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. But as the drug sildenafil temporarily helps in maintaining an erection in men, it is advised for men (Erectile Dysfunction) who want to have an erection while in intercourse. This drug cannot do any wonders to one’s performance and can only act as a medium to maintain the erection for a stipulated period. (6-8 hours when taken one hour before intercourse) The primary function of these drugs is to treat erectile dysfunction, while sildenafil helps maintain the erection for a temporary period.

You can reach out to Dr. Rahul Reddy with your queries at andrologistdoctor@gmail.com