How long does Viagra last?  

Sildenafil is an active ingredient in Viagra. Sildenafil (Viagra) is a prescription medication primarily used in the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in men. 
 
Viagra’s effects in your system depends on factors like the dosage strength, and your body’s metabolism rate. For first 3 hours, the effects are likely high, and they gradually start wearing-off by end of 5 – 6 hours. 

What is Viagra?  

Viagra is an FDA-approved drug and its main use is to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in men. This drug also helps in treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). Men may experience a few side effects after using Viagra. Such side effects vary in severity based on dosage and on your overall health condition. 

How does Viagra work?  

Viagra functions by blocking an enzyme known as PDE – 5. In the process, Viagra relaxes your penile muscles. It also enlarges blood vessels in the penile zone without disrupting other functions of your body. Viagra tends to be active during the first few hours, after a dose. Your blood vessels enlarge allowing more blood to enter into your penis. This eventually results in a successful penile erection. 

How long does it take for Viagra to work?  

Viagra works within half hour from your intake. To be more precise, a few reports state it takes approx. 12 minutes for this med to commence work. In most cases though, it takes nearly 20 – 40 minutes to start working. To experience maximum benefits of this med, your doctor may insist you to take Viagra 20 minutes prior to having a sexual intercourse with a partner. 

How long does Viagra last?  

The effects of Viagra tend to remain in your system for a few hours after you take it. Moreover, it can stay for more minutes mainly depending on the intensity of your sexual desire i.e. mental ability to pursue a sexual act. Viagra helps in bringing about an erection and maintaining it; this med does not handle your mental make-up or the psychological side of making you have an erection.  
 
A dose of Viagra usually becomes ineffective in less than six hours’ time. You may gradually see your penis coming back to its normal size and shape. 

Factors that could affect how long Viagra lasts 

A number of factors play a major role in influencing the time Viagra lasts in your system. One of the key parameters is quality of dosage. Age is also another factor; it determines how long Viagra lasts in your system. In general, aged males may witness a slowdown in their rates of metabolism. Your diet and lifestyle too have a major effect on how long Viagra stand efficient within your system.  

Healthy habits help achieve maximum benefits of this drug. Other drugs you presently use or treatment plans you currently pursue also influence the functioning of this PDE-5 inhibiting med. 
 

How much Viagra should you take?  

You can take a single dose of 50 milligrams (mg) per day; this is considered safe for males aged 18 to 64. However, you can go up to 100 mg based on your need, tolerance level, and absence of other health conditions. This is the recommended dose as per the manufacturer.  
 
Adults above 65 years of age often are made to start this med at a lower dose i.e. of 25 mg. A couple of hours before your sexual activity is a good time for you to consume Viagra. 

FAQ (2 Line Ans)  

Can Viagra last longer than 6 hours?  

Effects of Viagra stay for ~6 hours. Some men experience its effects for 12 hours. The effects gradually drop-off within 3 hours and your system may retain half-strength of this med. 

Can I take another Viagra pill if the effect wears off early?  

You should never take two doses of Sildenafil (Viagra) in the same day i.e. within a period of 24 hours. Moreover, if you are suffering from any other health conditions or are already-consuming other medications, your caregiver may advise you to take sildenafil only when needed. 

What if Viagra does not work or stops working?  

If Viagra does not work best to you or if it completely stops working, you should immediately consult with your caregiving team. Your team may suggest a few other options. Your caregiver may also prescribe extra dosage strength or administer an alternative medication like say, tadalafil (Cialis). 

Editor