10 RISE AND SHINE?
…I TAKE VIAGRA?
The ED drug has been available without prescription for seven years, but how well do you understand its effects? Here’s the hard science
01
HARD TIMES
It’s more common than you might think: in a survey by Pharmacy Direct GB, about half of respondents said they experience ED (erectile dysfunction) at least some of the time. It’s estimated about 40% of cases are psychogenic, triggered by stress or anxiety. Poor diet, alcohol and lack of exercise also contribute, along with diabetes and heart disease. You may just need a change in lifestyle, so speak to your doctor before medicating, says James O’Donovan (@doctorodonovan).
02
WORKING STIFF
ED is largely caused by the narrowing or blocking of arteries directing blood to the penis. Sildenafil (aka Viagra, its brand name) restricts the production of PDE5, the enzyme responsible for muscle contraction and relaxation, and regulating blood flow to the penis. The drug takes about an hour to kick in, but that doesn’t mean an instant hard-on. ‘You’ll need to be sexually excited for that to happen,’ says Dr O’Donovan.
03
KNOW YOUR RX
In the UK, sildenafil is licensed for men aged 18 and over, and it can be bought without a prescription – although you should check with your pharmacist or GP first to see if it’s suitable for you. ‘Sildenafil tablets come in different strengths, which range from 25mg to 100mg,’ says Dr O’Donovan. Some individuals may need alower dose than others, but the go-
