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How does Viagra work?

Viagra, which contains the active ingredient sildenafil, works by blocking an enzyme called PDE5 that breaks down a chemical called cGMP. This allows cGMP levels to rise, relaxing the smooth muscles and widening blood vessels in the penis when a man is sexually aroused. More blood then flows into the erectile tissue, helping to create and maintain an erection.

Key points:

• Viagra inhibits the PDE5 enzyme to sustain cGMP levels.
• It relaxes smooth muscles in the penis to dilate blood vessels.
• Sexual arousal is required for Viagra to increase blood flow to the penis.
• Effects typically start within 30-60 minutes and last around 4 hours.

This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.