The Independent Pharmacy

What to Expect The First Time You Take Sildenafil

Daniel Hurley
Daniel Hurley
MPharm IP GPhC 2078790
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber

Starting any new medication can feel daunting, and this is especially true when it comes to treating something as personal as erectile dysfunction (ED). Many men feel anxious about using ED treatments for the first time, unsure of how it will work or how their body might respond. If you’re starting Sildenafil, having clear information about what to expect can ease those nerves and help you feel more prepared. Managing your first time expectations can make the experience less stressful. By knowing what happens when you take Sildenafil and how to approach your first dose, you’ll feel more confident and in control.

Key Takeaways

1 | The first dose of Sildenafil may not provide perfect results

2 | It may take several attempts to find the right timing and circumstances

3 | Most side effects are mild and often improve with continued use

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Before You Start - Preparation Tips

Before starting Sildenafil, you should prepare yourself to ensure a safe and effective experience. Begin with a medical consultation to confirm whether Sildenafil is the right option for you. Be honest about your health history, including any pre-existing conditions, allergies, and medications, especially nitrates, as these can interact dangerously with his medication.

Sildenafil (unbranded Viagra)
Sildenafil (unbranded Viagra)
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Understand the dosing instructions

Your doctor will recommend a dose that suits your needs, typically to take 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. Avoid exceeding the prescribed dosage and remember that Sildenafil shouldn’t be taken more than once within 24 hours.

Set realistic expectations

Sildenafil supports natural arousal but you need to feel sexually excited for it to work properly.

Have a practice run first

If it’s been a while since you’ve had a natural erection, or even if it hasn’t, it can be a good idea to have a “practice run’ by yourself, before you prepare to have sex with a partner. It can take time for your body to remember what to do, especially if it’s been some time, and you need to check that you’re taking the correct dosage for the medicine to be effective. Doing this can help prevent disappointment or awkwardness with your partner.

Ensure proper storage and handling of the medication

Keep it at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight, and store it out of reach of children or pets.

Proper preparation sets the foundation for a successful experience.

happy couple having fun

The First Time You Take Sildenafil

Sildenafil begins to take effect within 30-60 minutes after taking it, though it may take slightly longer if you’ve eaten a large or fatty meal.

Some initial side effects are common and typically short-lived. These are your body’s ways of adjusting to the medication and usually improve with subsequent doses.

It’s also important to know that your first time taking Sildenafil may not be perfect, as factors like anxiety, timing, or insufficient stimulation can affect the experience. This is completely normal and doesn’t mean Sildenafil isn’t working for you. Use this opportunity to learn how your body responds and discuss any concerns with your doctor to make adjustments as needed.

Managing Common Side Effects

When taking Sildenafil, it’s normal to experience mild side effects as your body adjusts to the medication.

Common side effects include:

  • headaches
  • hot flushing
  • nasal congestion
  • indigestion
  • nausea
  • mild dizziness

These effects usually only last a few hours as the medication works through your system.

To manage these symptoms, stay hydrated and avoid too much alcohol when taking Sildenafil. Try to relax in a cool, quiet environment, and use a fan to counteract any hot flushes. Over-the-counter pain relief can help with headaches, while resting and avoiding sudden movements can reduce dizziness.

While most side effects are harmless, certain symptoms require immediate medical attention. Seek help if you experience chest pain, severe dizziness, sudden vision, or an erection lasting longer than two hours, especially if it’s painful.

Finding Your Best Routine

When starting Sildenafil, it’s important to pay attention to how your body responds. Note the timing of effectiveness and how long the effects last for you - this can be up to five hours in some cases. Pay attention to any side effects or personal factors, like meals or alcohol consumption, which might influence its performance.

To incorporate Sildenafil smoothly into your routine, plan ahead for sexual activity and consider taking it on an empty stomach for faster results. Avoid excessive alcohol, as it can reduce the medication's effectiveness.With a little observation and adjustment, you’ll discover what works best for your needs.

It is essential that you speak to a licensed medical professional before starting any ED medication. They can provide personalised, expert guidance, assess potential risks and ensure that your chosen treatment is safe and suitable for your health needs.

Don’t Forget:

Success with Sildenafil often improves as you become more familiar with how it works and how your body responds.

By following ED treatment guides, understanding timing, and managing Sildenafil expectations, you’ll likely see better results over time.

Remember, every individual is unique, and finding what works best for you is key.

Are you experiencing erectile dysfunction? Take the first step towards effective treatment today. Our discreet, free consultation only takes a minute and provides personalised recommendations tailored to your needs. Start your journey toward confidence and improved sexual health.

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Sources

  1. https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/angina/prescribing-information/nitrates/
  2. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/Sildenafil-viagra/how-and-when-to-take-Sildenafil/
  3. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/Sildenafil-viagra/side-effects-of-Sildenafil/
  4. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/Sildenafil-viagra/common-questions-about-Sildenafil/

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Daniel Hurley

Authored by

Daniel Hurley
Daniel Hurley
MPharm IP
2078790
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber

Dan is an experienced pharmacist having spent time working in both primary and secondary care. He currently supports our clinical team by providing robust clinical governance review of our internal processes and information.

Andy Boysan

Reviewed by

Andy Boysan
Andy Boysan
BPharm
2047716
Director & Superintendent Pharmacist

Andy is a co-founder and the Superintendent Pharmacist and Director at The Independent Pharmacy.