What is Viagra Connect?

Viagra Connect is a medication specifically designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. The active ingredient, sildenafil, belongs to a group of medicines known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Viagra Connect works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping men to achieve and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated. It is available over the counter in the UK, making it a convenient option for those who may feel uncomfortable discussing their condition with a doctor.

How to Use Viagra Connect

1. Dosage:

• The recommended dose of Viagra Connect is one 50mg tablet, taken as needed.
• Do not take more than one tablet in a 24-hour period.
• Viagra Connect should be taken about one hour before you plan to have sex. However, it can be taken anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity.

1. Administration:

• Swallow the tablet whole with water.
• You can take Viagra Connect with or without food, but it may take longer to work if taken with a heavy meal.

1. Effectiveness:

• Viagra Connect requires sexual stimulation to be effective. It will not cause an erection without arousal.
• The effects can last up to 4 hours, although this varies from person to person.

Potential Side Effects

While Viagra Connect is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Flushing (a warm sensation)
• Indigestion
• Nasal congestion
• Dizziness
• Nausea

Less common side effects may include:

• Visual disturbances (blurred vision or a blue tint)
• Palpitations
• Muscle pain

Serious Side Effects:

Though rare, some serious side effects require immediate medical attention:

• Priapism: A prolonged and painful erection lasting more than 4 hours.
• Sudden vision loss: A sudden decrease or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• Sudden hearing loss: A sudden decrease or loss of hearing, sometimes accompanied by dizziness or ringing in the ears.

If you experience any of these serious side effects, stop using Viagra Connect and seek medical help immediately.

Who Should Not Use Viagra Connect

• Men under 18 years old.
• Women.
• Men not diagnosed with erectile dysfunction.
• Those with severe cardiovascular conditions, such as recent heart attack or stroke.
• Men taking nitrate medications for chest pain (angina).
• Patients with severe liver or kidney impairment should consult their doctor before using Viagra Connect.

Interactions with Other Medicines

Viagra Connect can interact with certain medications, potentially causing adverse effects. Do not take Viagra Connect if you are using:

• Nitrates (for chest pain)
• Riociguat (for pulmonary hypertension)
• Certain antifungals or antibiotics
• Alpha-blockers (for high blood pressure or prostate problems)

Always inform your pharmacist or healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking before starting Viagra Connect.

Storage Instructions

• Store Viagra Connect at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the tablets in their original packaging and out of reach of children.

When to Seek Medical Advice

• If you have any underlying health conditions, such as heart problems or liver issues, consult your doctor before using Viagra Connect.
• If you experience any severe or unusual side effects, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.

Viagra Connect offers a discreet and effective solution for men suffering from erectile dysfunction, available over the counter for convenience.