Viagra, also known as sildenafil, is an effective oral treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). It works by enhancing blood flow to the penis, helping men to achieve and maintain a penetrative erection.
On average, Viagra lasts between 2 and 3 hours before its effects start to diminish. Some men may experience the effects of the medication as early as 12 minutes after dosing, while for most patients, it takes about 30 minutes to start working.
The concentration of Viagra in the blood peaks around 30-120 minutes after taking the drug, usually around the 60-minute mark. It is during this time that the maximum effect of Viagra can be felt.
The effects of Viagra can last between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the individual and the dose taken. Some people may experience more than one erection during this time. However, it is important to note that just because Viagra can stay in the body for up to 8 hours, it doesn't mean an erection should last that long.
Sildenafil has a 4-hour half-life, meaning that half of the drug has left the bloodstream after 4 hours. Some men may still be able to achieve a satisfactory erection after 10 hours, although the duration will become shorter. After 24 hours, all traces of the drug in the bloodstream have practically gone.
The half-life of Viagra is four hours, which is the time it takes for the amount of the drug in the bloodstream to decrease by 50 percent.
This information is crucial for understanding how long the medication will remain effective in the body.
A study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology demonstrated that men with ED who used sildenafil were able to attain an adequate erection four hours after taking the medication, which is consistent with sildenafil's three- to five-hour half-life.
Several factors can influence how long Viagra lasts in the body, including the specific response an individual has to the medication, foods eaten shortly before or after taking it, and existing health conditions.
To help sildenafil work more effectively, it is recommended to take the medication on an empty stomach and be in a relaxed state of mind. This can allow the drug to be absorbed more quickly and increase the chances of a successful erection.
It is essential to seek medical attention if an erection lasts longer than 4 hours. Prolonged erections can be dangerous and may cause damage to the penile tissues.