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Researchers at Pfizer discovered the effects of Viagra by accident. Originally, the drug was meant to treat angina, but it had an unintended side effect – harder erections that lasted longer. After further investigation, the researchers at Pfizer discovered that Viagra works because it increases blood flow to the penis.

Viagra was the first FDA-approved medication used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. Approved in 1998, it quickly became a blockbuster drug, with almost $3 billion per year in sales. Clinical trials have shown that Viagra helps 70-80% of men get and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

Before Viagra, treatments for erectile dysfunction included penile implants, genital suppositories, and direct injections. These treatments were painful, expensive, and interfered with spontaneity. Viagra usually starts working in as few as 30 minutes. It typically has mild side effects, including headache, digestive upset, and blurred vision.

While it’s not dangerous to take Viagra with food, it works faster if taken on an empty stomach. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of liquid. Avoid grapefruit juice when taking Viagra, because it can increase the amount of medication in your bloodstream and lead to side effects.

If you decide to eat immediately before or after taking Viagra, it’s best to avoid foods high in fat. Fatty foods, like red meats and fried foods, can keep your body from absorbing the drug. When that happens, Viagra might not work as quickly. When planning to take Viagra, eat low-fat meals throughout the day.

Avoid drinking large quantities of alcohol. Some men experience side effects when mixing Viagra and alcohol, including low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, dizziness, and fainting. Viagra is usually safe to take with low to moderate amounts of alcohol. If you have questions about how Viagra will affect you, consult your doctor.

For Viagra to work as desired, it must be used properly. Viagra doesn’t give you an instant erection, so you must be sexually stimulated and in the mood for sexual activity. Take Viagra approximately 30 minutes before you anticipate having sex. You can relax if it doesn’t happen right away, because Viagra lasts up to 4 hours.

You can take Viagra with or without food, but be sure to avoid meals high in fat when taking Viagra. While it’s not dangerous, high fat foods can slow down absorption of the drug. Limit alcohol consumption to 1 or 2 drinks, or avoid it completely.

If Viagra doesn’t work as expected the first time, don’t be discouraged. Most doctors prescribe a low starting dose to minimize side effects, so be sure to communicate with your doctor. Some men might need to try Viagra a few times before achieving the desired result.