The First Pill: What Men Are Saying About Their First Time Using Sildenafil
As one of the most widely known treatments for erectile dysfunction, sildenafil (Viagra) has a reputation that often precedes it. For many men, the first pill comes with a mix of nerves, curiosity, and hope. Will it work as expected? What about side effects? And will it change the experience of sex itself?
Across Reddit forums and online discussions, men have been remarkably candid about their first-time experiences with sildenafil. Their stories reveal both the excitement of firmer erections and newfound confidence, as well as the reality of side effects and lessons learned the hard way.
Here’s what real users say you can expect the first time you take sildenafil.
The Build-Up: Nerves, Expectations, and Preparation
For many, the hardest part of the first time isn’t the sex - it’s swallowing the pill. Men often describe a mix of anticipation and anxiety, debating the right dose and whether to try it alone before a partner is involved.
"He took a very small piece out of being nervous, didn’t notice much of a difference. The second time he took a bit more and my god I sucked his dick for hours." -u/squidward0319
"Maybe take half a standard tab (50mg), in case you’re sensitive to the side effects. If you open up Pornhub, you’ll soon know if it’s working." -u/Major_Twang
"Keep this a low stakes evening where you're experimenting to see how he reacts to the pill." -u/atticus2132000
The consensus: don’t set the bar too high on the first night. Treat it as an experiment, not a guaranteed all-night session.
The First Effects: What Men Noticed Straight Away
When it kicks in, the effects can be dramatic. Men frequently describe erections that feel firmer, longer lasting, and easier to maintain - often with noticeable differences compared to before.
"First time he took a very small piece … he was hard but nothing out of the usual. The second time he took more and it was noticeably harder - he said it took him longer to cum though." -u/squidward0319
"I had an erection quickly and it stayed that way whether I was ready and horny or not. I lasted a little longer than usual and was able to go again basically immediately." -[Anonymous]
"I got hard as a rock. Probably hardest I’ve ever been since a teenager. My wife loved it - we had sex for about 45 minutes." -[Anonymous]
For many, that first experience is a powerful confidence boost.
Side Effects: The Flip Side of the Experience
But along with the firmer erections come some less glamorous realities. Headaches, flushing, and nasal congestion are among the most common complaints. A few users also report vision changes or delayed orgasms.
"So I took the whole thing the first time and it clogged my nose with congestion and got a headache. But it worked and I was able to perform." -u/cuminghairy
"Get really hard, stay really hard longer… and a splitting headache. You may also lose some sensitivity and take longer to orgasm." -u/julianriv
"Bluish tint to your vision is a short-term side effect… I split 100mg into fifths so I’d get more out of it." -u/rob7young
Most side effects fade quickly, but they can be unsettling if you’re not expecting them.
Confidence and Performance Anxiety
For younger men in particular, sildenafil is often less about physical function and more about reassurance. Anxiety around sex can be enough to sabotage erections - and the first pill can help break the cycle.
"I’ve had trouble getting it up ever since I lost my virginity… I’m considering Viagra, but I also kind of see it as a defeat at such an early age." -u/Ok-Exit3942
"Viagra does help with performance anxiety. There is no shame in that. Once you start to feel comfortable again after a few successful rounds, you won’t need it anymore." -u/TheSmokingHorse
"After a couple times you ‘get your mojo back’ and don’t need it for a while. Don’t get too down on yourself, I think that’s most important." -u/hotmoistbeaver
For many, the psychological benefit can be just as valuable as the physical effects.
Advice from the Community: What Helps First-Timers
Men who have been through it often share practical tips for making the first experience smoother.
"Viagra works best/quickest when taken on an empty stomach. Allow an hour for it to get in your system and then it’ll be good for about 4 hours." -u/rob7young
"Try it alone first to see if it even works and to find the right dosage for you. Viagra unfortunately doesn’t work for everyone." -u/idkbroidk-_-
"Don’t starve yourself, but leave 2 hours after eating before dosing. Alcohol in moderation, 1-2 servings is okay, more than that can work against the medication." -u/Hopeful_Carpenter_50
In short: start low, plan ahead, and give yourself space to adjust.
Expert Opinion: A Pharmacist’s Take
We asked Alessandro Grenci, Superintendent Pharmacist at Medino, for his professional perspective on what men should know before taking sildenafil for the first time:
"The first time you try sildenafil, it’s important to keep expectations realistic. It won’t create an erection by itself - sexual stimulation is still required. For most men, 25-50mg taken 30-60 minutes before sex is sufficient."
"Common side effects include flushing, headaches, and nasal congestion, which usually pass quickly. But if you notice chest pain, vision changes, or an erection lasting more than four hours, seek medical help immediately."
"Never mix sildenafil with nitrates or recreational drugs like poppers, as this can be extremely dangerous. And if you’re nervous, starting with a half-dose under the guidance of your doctor is a sensible approach."
Conclusion: First Time, Not the Last Word
The first pill is rarely perfect - but that’s part of the learning curve. Some men describe firmer erections and a huge boost in confidence, while others find the side effects distracting or realise the dose needs adjusting.
The common thread is that sildenafil can be a powerful tool, especially when nerves or performance anxiety are part of the picture. But it’s not a magic switch - it’s a medication, and like all medications, it works best when used responsibly and with realistic expectations.
The takeaway? Your first time may not be flawless, but it can open the door to greater confidence and intimacy. Start low, stay safe, and remember: you’re not alone in figuring it out.
