Coming across this blog, you might have experience with Viagra intake yourself or might be afraid of giving it a try because it could turn into an addiction. For everyone who never heard of Viagra before:
It is a blue pill developed by Pfizer Inc. Viagra is the brand name for ‘Sildenafil’, and it is used to treat erectile dysfunction in male individuals. The medication comes in tablets of 50 mg as the most used version and is also available in 25 mg and 100 mg.
These blue pills are available without prescriptions under slightly different names, especially on the internet.
How Viagra Works
Viagra aims to achieve and maintain an erection – intake is for male individuals only. The pill relaxes the blood vessels in certain body parts and once these are dilated/open, the blood flows freely and fast to the penis where it is needed to create an erection based on sexual stimulation. The pill makes sure that the blood vessels remain relaxed for a certain period which can last up to a few hours.
This is the ideal outcome of Viagra intake, however, just like with any other medication, it can be dangerous to take Viagra without a prescription from a professional, especially in case of underlying medical conditions. Common side effects include headache and dizziness, a runny nose and bleeding, upset stomach, pain in the back, and difficulties sleeping among others.
Is Viagra Addictive?
For men thinking about Viagra intake to improve their performance during sexual intercourse, a common concern is that it might be physically addictive just like other prescribed stimulants or painkillers. It is not – the active ingredient called ‘sildenafil citrate is not a physically addictive substance.
However, erections during Viagra intake usually are harder and last longer. Improved sexual performance and often greater enjoyment are the consequences. Having said that, Viagra can become a psychological addiction.
Are you addicted to Viagra?
The blue pill has become a lifesaver for many men – some depend on it to get an erection. It is important to take, only the dose prescribed by the doctor. Once one pill has been taken, no second one should follow within the next 24 hours.
Here are some situations in which a psychological dependence is likely:
– When an erection cannot be achieved due to underlying psychological conditions like anxiety: performance anxiety can quickly lead to the thought that sex without Viagra is impossible.
– When an erection cannot be achieved due to organic erectile dysfunction: It becomes a habit to take the blue pill to treat the underlying cause of the condition.
– When Viagra is abused, it can lead to an increased sex drive – intake, always wanting more, intake, … This can easily become a vicious cycle and a threat to any romantic relationship.
– When Viagra is taken for recreational purposes, meaning the man does not even need it but takes it anyway to perform better. He then starts being more confident due to Viagra intake.
Here are some warning signs that you might develop or already have developed a dependency:
– Viagra intake becomes a routine.
– Due to the side effects, you are affected in your daily functioning.
– Your relationship is negatively affected by your Viagra intake.
– You continue the intake even though you experience extreme side effects.
Cases of psychological addiction to Viagra are rare in men with a stable psyche and as mentioned previously, physical addiction is impossible.
Important reminders
Even if you take Viagra, you still need physical and mental stimulation as well as the desire to have an erection.
Also, Viagra does not cure erectile dysfunction, it only serves as a temporary treatment for it.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Franziska Richter is a transcultural counsellor with the Willingness Team, offering counselling sessions to individuals and couples. She is particularly interested in sexuality, relationship issues, trauma and general mental health.
References
https://www.everydayhealth.com/mens-health/recreational-viagra-why-its-not-good-idea/
https://www.healthcentre.org.uk/pharmacy/erectile-dysfunction-dependency-viagra.html
https://www.medzino.com/us/health-center/can-viagra-be-addictive/