Can You Get Viagra Over The Counter?

When treating a patient with ED, doctors usually suggest Viagra (sildenafil) first because it is the first ED medication available. Many people want to know if Viagra can be bought over the counter (OTC) since it is so commonly prescribed.

This article describes ED symptoms and causes, how to get a prescription for Viagra, and whether it can be purchased over the counter. Because ED can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, I'll explain when you should see a doctor to determine the cause and which treatment options are best for you.

What Is Viagra?

ED is treated with Viagra (sildenafil). There are three ways to administer it: an oral tablet, liquid, or a subcutaneous injection.

It takes between 30 minutes and an hour for Viagra to take effect after it is taken shortly before sexual activity. This drug can stay in your system for up to 4-5 hours and assist you in becoming erect during that period. Dosages are typically 50 milligrams (mg); food should not be taken with it. Empty stomachs are best for taking Viagra.

ED can be treated safely and effectively with Viagra for most men. Although safe, it may cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, rash, arm and leg pain, and abnormal vision.

Symptoms Of Erectile Dysfunction

Men over 40 are more likely to suffer erectile dysfunction (ED). In the US, an estimated 30 million men suffer from ED.

The symptoms of ED include difficulty getting and maintaining erections during sexual activity. It often negatively impacts intimate relationships and negatively affects physical and mental health. Some of the most common symptoms of ED are:

• Having trouble getting an erection during sexual activity
  
  
• Difficulty ejaculating
  
  
• Orgasm is difficult to achieve during sexual activity.
  
  
• A decrease in interest and desire for sexual activity
  
  
• Having difficulty maintaining an erection during sexual activity

Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction

Heart disease and diabetes are both potential causes of ED. It is common to categorise ED into organic (physical) and psychogenic (mental).

Approximately 80% of cases of ED are caused by organic factors, which are endocrine or non-endocrine. Endocrine-related causes often cause low testosterone, though more research is needed to understand the relationship between the two. Blood supply, blood flow, and nerve functions can all be affected by non-endocrine conditions that cause ED.

Research suggests that ED is often psychogenic, even when it has organic causes. Your psychological well-being, including mood, quality of life, and intimate relationships, can be negatively affected by your ED, whether psychological conditions cause it or not.

To determine the cause and the best treatment for your ED symptoms, speak with your provider.

Treatment For Erectile Dysfunction

To treat ED in men, four medications are approved: sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra).

These are all PDE5 inhibitors. As a result of enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, they relax penile muscles, expand blood vessels that go into the penis, and improve blood flow to the penis. As a result, erections get and stay stronger for a more extended period.

However, some medications, including alpha blockers and heart medications containing nitrates, may interact with PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra. ED treatments such as Viagra are, therefore, not suitable for all men.

In additionally to the PDE5 medications that can be used to manage ED, some of the standard treatment options available are:

• Blood vessel surgery
  
  
• Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)
  
  
• Injectable or suppository drugs
  
  
• Penis sleeves
  
  
• Penile implants
  
  
• Vacuum erectile devices (VEDs)
  
  
• ED rings

Finally, some over-the-counter (OTC) medications may help alleviate the symptoms of ED. Because of this, some OTC ED medications may contain ingredients or produce side effects that aren't disclosed. Before trying one of these OTC supplements, you should speak with your healthcare provider to ensure the treatment is safe and effective.

Can You Purchase Viagra Over The Counter?

It is not possible to purchase Viagra over the counter. Prescriptions are the only way to obtain it right now.

Many illegal websites sell Viagra online because of its high demand, but they are unmonitored and often dangerous. Around 80% of websites claiming to sell Viagra were selling counterfeit products, according to the Pfizer Global Security teams. Amphetamines, blue printer ink, and rat poison were also found in some pills.

How To Get Prescribed Viagra Over The Counter

To obtain Viagra or its generic sildenafil, a prescription is required. Find out if Viagra is right for you by consulting your healthcare provider or visiting online doctor services.

How Mobi Doctor Can Help

Mobi Doctor offers online urgent care. In minutes, you can check your symptoms, research conditions and treatments, and text a healthcare provider if needed.