How to Maximize Viagra and Other ED Drugs
Learn How to Make a Good Thing Even Better
Disclaimer: Your healthcare provider is the best source of health and medical information. Articles written by UPGUYS are informed by peer-reviewed studies and research, as well as governmental health authorities and agencies — but they cannot replace advice from a healthcare professional. Talk to your healthcare provider about any physical or mental health concerns you might have.
In a 2014 interview with Business Insider, Canadian Astronaut Chris Hadfield shared with the world a phrase that is popular among space travellers, “In space, there is no problem so bad you can’t make it worse.” In other words, in the freezing cold, deadly abyss of outer space, just because a bad mistake has been made, there’s no time to dwell on it, because an even worse mistake is right around the corner. 2
Back here on earth, is the inverse also true? Can you always make a good thing even better?
Erectile dysfunction medication like Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil) and Levitra (vardenafil) have been shown to be highly effective in millions of men around the world — their efficacy ranging from 69 and 80 percent. Despite the high rates of success shown in clinical trials and experienced by patients, there are ways men can give these meds a boost.
Finding the Right ED Drug
Viagra, Cialis and Levitra all belong to a class of drugs known as PDE-5 Inhibitors. They work in similar ways as well. The “Big 3” all help to relax smooth muscles in the penis, allowing for increased blood flow which can help men achieve a stronger erection, and have that erection last for longer. But just because they’re from the same family doesn’t mean they’re identical. In fact, each one is made up of different active ingredients which can affect things like how long they take to start working, how long they last, and what side effects you might experience.
It’s important that your doctor knows about your medical history, any current health issues you’re experiencing, and what other medications (including prescription meds, over-the-counter drugs and vitamins) you’re taking. You should also tell your doctor about any side effects you’re experiencing, especially if they’re new or become worse. This will help you and your doctor find the right drug for you.
Avoiding Certain Foods and Drinks
Depending on which ED drug you’ve been prescribed, you’ll want to be mindful about what and how much you eat before taking your medicine. Sildenafil (the generic name for Viagra) is best taken without food. If you do plan on having a meal in and around the time you’re taking Viagra, make sure to avoid high-fat foods like steak, lasagna and pizza. These foods can slow the absorption of the drug which can make it take longer to start working, have it not last as long, or make it less effective overall. Conversely, tadalafil (Cialis) and vardenafil (Levitra) can be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Although avoiding high-fat meals prior or after taking these medicines is probably a good call no matter which drug you’re taking.
Interestingly, you’ll want to avoid grapefruit juice and other grapefruit products when taking erectile dysfunction medication (EDM). Some of the compounds found in grapefruit can actually increase the concentration of EDM active ingredients in your bloodstream, which might make you more likely to experience side effects. Excessive alcohol consumption can also work against you when taking Viagra, Cialis or Levitra. The body’s response to alcohol and how it affects erectile function will vary from person to person, but as a rule of thumb, limit your alcohol intake to one to two drinks.
Be Patient and Don’t Rush It
It does take time for EDM to take effect, no matter which one you take. And while they can be highly effective, they’re not magic pills — you’ll still need to have the right combination of being in the right mood and sexual stimulation.
Viagra and Levitra take 30–60 minutes to start working, so try and take it at least an hour (but not more than two) before engaging in sexual activity. They generally last between 4–6 hours, depending on the dose and your particular health and body. Cialis, on the other hand, needs a bit more time to take effect — plan to take it two hours before sex. The good news for Cialis/tadalafil users, it can last in the body for up to 36 hours, leaving you at the ready for more than a full day.
Try a Higher Dose
If your prescribed medication hasn’t worked after a few separate attempts, and you’ve tried the tips listed above, your doctor may suggest you take a stronger dose. Viagra, Cialis and Levitra all come in a variety of doses. For example, sildenafil is available in 50mg and 100mg doses. Tadalafil, for its part, comes in 10 and 20mg doses, as well as smaller, daily doses. The daily-version of Cialis is meant to be taken every day at the same time, as opposed to other EDM meant to be taken on demand. Whatever the case, talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing mixed results with your prescription — and don’t ever take a higher dose without first consulting with them.
Erectile dysfunction is a complex issue, involving physical, mental and environmental factors. Treatment doesn’t have to be as complex as the issue though. If your doctor prescribes ED medication for you, try the tips listed in this article to get the most out of it. With some dedication, and the right treatment options, you can turn a good thing into a great thing.
