Viagra Erection

Viagra (sildenafil citrate) has improved the sex lives of many men who suffer from impotency caused by erectile dysfunction (ED), which is an inability to get and sustain an erection. Viagra was introduced in March of 1998, and can help about 65-70% of impotent men. The small blue pill is today's most successful and easy treatment for impotency.

Erectile Dysfunction

Until the 1980's, erectile dysfunction was thought to be a mental condition. Today we know that it is caused by a lack of blood flow into the penis. Upon arousal, smooth muscles in the penis relax, allowing pressurized blood to flow quickly into the arteries of the penis, causing an erection. These arteries also constrict the flow of blood out of the penis, which sustains the erection. Many men with erectile dysfunction are unable to get and sustain an erection because the smooth muscles in the penis do not regulate the flow of pressurized blood properly. Viagra works to make this possible.

How Does Viagra Work?

Out of all the involuntary smooth muscles in the body (some are located in the stomach, intestines, etc.), Viagra targets the smooth muscles of the penis, relaxing them, and increasing pressurized blood flow. So how does Viagra target the smooth muscles of the penis? Viagra blocks an enzyme that is present in the penis during arousal. This enzyme breaks down chemicals which sustain an erection, and in it's absence, potency becomes possible.

How is Viagra Different From Other Erectile Dysfunction Drugs?

Before the creation of Viagra, the best way for a man with ED to achieve an erection was by injected the drug Phentolamine. Phentalomine is a smooth muscle relaxer, which allows blood flow, resulting in an erection. Viagra is a great improvement for two big reasons: Viagra allows more control over erections, and it comes in the form of a pill. Phentalomine causes an erection immediately after injection, regardless of sexual arousal. One Viagra tablet is taken about 30-60 minutes before sexual activity begins, and causes an erection only when a man becomes aroused. Also, taking a pill is much more convenient and pleasant than administering an injection, resulting in an easier, gradual, more natural feeling.