How Viagra Works: Does It Alter a Man’s Sex Drive?

Viagra has become one of the most widely prescribed medications worldwide, and for an understandable reason. It’s an effective temporary solution that tackles the symptoms of erectile dysfunction, helping men develop a firm erection that’s powerful enough to ignite the romance in the bedroom.

But while Viagra can temporarily help the symptoms of ED, there are many questions and side effects that may make this medication more costly to male health than many men recognize. Let’s begin by exploring whether Viagra has an impact on the male sex drive, for better or for worse.

Here’s the truth of the matter: No, Viagra doesn’t influence your sex drive. Your sex drive does not decrease over time due to extensive use of the drug, nor does it increase because of the pill’s penis-enlarging properties.

With that misconception out of the way, you may have a lot of questions. What’s the main purpose of the drug, then? How does it work? Are there any side effects I should be worried about by taking the drug? Are there any alternative ways to treat erectile dysfunction? What do I do if I’m not sexually aroused by my partner anymore?

Find out the answers and more information in this article about Viagra and sex drive.

How Does Viagra Work?

Viagra (sildenafil citrate) is an FDA-approved drug that belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.

This drug works by relaxing smooth muscles in the blood vessel walls, which consequently allows a larger volume ofblood flow to circulate and enter the erectile chambers. For many men, it’s effective in increasing blood flow and alleviating the symptoms of sexual dysfunction.

Viagra is a clinically effective way to treat organic erectile dysfunction, even though it does not treat the underlying symptoms of ED like other ED therapies can. And with over 94% of patients having organic ED, this shows that this drug has a place on shelves.

That said, patients with psychogenic or psychological erectile dysfunction may not reap ideal results when they take Viagra, which we’ll get to why right now.

When Viagra Doesn’t Work

For an erection to form, two key mechanisms have to take place:

1. The brain becomes sexually stimulated, firing nerve impulses.
2. Blood rushes to the penis through blood vessels.

Viagra helps when an impediment occurs in the second step. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by blockages and problems in blood transport through the vessels, all of which Viagra can help alleviate.

However, Viagra doesn’t help when the brain fails to fire signals to signal a male’s sexual arousal in the first place. The term for this failure to sustain an erection due to a non-organic etiology is psychogenic ED.

Viagra’s effects are only evident when there’s genuine sexual arousal in the male taking the pill. In other words, if the man taking Viagra isn’t sexually stimulated or aroused, the conditions won’t be suitable for an erection to form.

In such events, other ED treatment plans may be considered. Consult with a doctor to find the best treatment plan for you.

Side Effects of Viagra

Viagra can be useful in aiding men suffering from debilitating bouts of erectile dysfunction. However, it’s not the perfect pill. There are some side effects to be aware of before considering the drug.

Side effects of Viagra include the following:

• Sleep problems
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• High blood pressure
• Nosebleeds
• Low blood pressure
• Upset stomach
• Flushing

If you’re experiencing adverse drug interactions or any of the symptoms above, contact a medical professional for assistance. Some of these symptoms, such as flushing, are common and can occur in as much as 30% of cases.

Doctors may lower the Viagra dosage or prescribe you another form of treatment for your erectile dysfunction.

Alternative Ways to Treat Erectile Dysfunction

You don’t have to resign yourself to a life of celibacy if your erection fails to cooperate with you.

With the sheer prevalence of erectile dysfunction cases worldwide, doctors have undergone extensive research to find the best ways to treat ED. At present time, there are several treatment options you can consider to step away from flaccid territory, and sustainably at that.

Here are some ways to cure erectile dysfunction (that don’t involve taking ED medications and other prescription drugs):

1. Acoustic Wave Therapy

Acoustic wave therapy is a non-invasive ED treatment plan that uses shockwaves emitted from a special device to break plaque in the blood vessels surrounding the erectile region. This effectively helps promote a higher volume of blood flow to the erectile chambers, making erections more achievable.

It’s a fairly new type of surgery, but it’s been clinically proven to be an effective method to improve erectile function without adverse effects.

2. Penile Injections

Penile injection therapy can be used to relax the smooth muscles in the blood vessels, causing them to dilate and increase blood flow to the penis.

3. Penile Implants

Penile implants are invasive treatment procedures that help men gain erections. A device is implanted into the penis, making erections possible.

4. Vacuum Erectile Device

A vacuum pump is a device that uses a special tube and air suction to cause an erection to form.

What Do I Do If I’m Not Sexually Aroused By My Partner Anymore?

Mismatched sex drives are a common occurrence in relationships, but if you noticed you aren’t as sexually intimate as in your past self, it can be stressful.

That said, there are ways you can spice up the bedroom and naturally boost your sex drive.

Here are several ways to boost sex drive:

1. Prolong the foreplay: Get your body mentally ready for the act by teasing, without the sexual stimulation.
2. Schedule sex: It might seem odd, but keeping close tabs on when to engage in sex can help you look forward to the act and enjoy it when the moment comes.
3. Use sex toys: Vibrators, plugs, wands, ED rings, strap-ons—the world of sex toys is vast, fun, and varied.
4. Try couple’s therapy: Sex should be enjoyed by both partners. If there’s a rift in the relationship that can’t be consoled in a single conversation, try couple’s therapy to improve sexual desire.
5. Try solo therapy: Sex drive is influenced by one’s mental state. If you’re suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental problems, seeking therapy can help immensely.

Contact Orlando’s Leading Men’s Clinic Today to Combat Erectile Dysfunction

Viagra is a popular drug that is used to treat erectile dysfunction, but it doesn’t improve a man’s sex drive.

Instead of relying on these ED pills, you can look into trying clinical treatments to improve your sexual performance that may have decreased with age. Engaging in foreplay, seeking a therapist, and using sex toys can also be great ways to improve your sex drive.

If you’re experiencing difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection, talk to a healthcare professional to discuss whether Viagra or alternative therapies may be right for you.

The medical professionals at Orlando’s Premier Men’s Medical Center specialize in treating conditions that impact men’s health. Our concierge approach positions your unique case at the centerpoint of our focus. We don’t just give you a pill for ED and send you on your way. We treat the underlying issues that led to conditions such as Erectile Dysfunction, Low Testosterone, and more. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.