What side effects can you experience when taking Viagra?

Viagra is one of the most popular options for men dealing with erectile dysfunction. However, like all other medications, some users may experience side effects when they use it. The most likely people to experience side effects are older people, people with other health conditions, and people who misuse it. Thankfully, the risk of serious or longer-term side effects is low, yet there are some side effects that are more common that you may need to be aware of. The information below will provide you with the answers you need about Viagra (the branded form of sildenafil) and its side effects.

What are the most common side effects of Viagra (sildenafil) that patients experience?

Viagra is a widely used medication for treating erectile dysfunction, and while it is generally well-tolerated, it can cause some side effects. The most common side effects, according to the NHS , include headaches, which occur as the body adjusts to the medication and feeling sick (nausea), which is often linked to the drug’s effect on the digestive system. Indigestion or heartburn can also occur, as Viagra can influence stomach acid production. Dizziness is another common side effect due to the drug’s impact on blood flow and blood pressure. Although these side effects are common, many people experience them mildly or not at all.

Which Viagra (sildenafil) side effects are uncommon?

Uncommon side effects of Viagra (sildenafil) include bladder pain, a burning feeling in the chest or stomach, and unusual sensations such as burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles," or tingling feelings. Some individuals may also experience cloudy or bloody urine, increased frequency of urination, pain during urination, stomach upset, and tenderness in the stomach area. While these side effects are less common, they can still occur and should be discussed with a healthcare provider if they persist (Drugs.com, 2023) .

Are there any rare side effects of Viagra?

Yes, there are rare side effects of Viagra (sildenafil) that require immediate medical attention. These include chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sex, which do not improve with rest. An erection that does not go away and lasts more than four hours, known as priapism, is another serious side effect. Some individuals may also experience a sudden decrease in hearing or complete loss of hearing. A sudden reduction or loss of vision in one or both eyes is also a rare but critical side effect. If any of these symptoms occur, it is essential to seek emergency medical assistance as soon as possible (Brewer & Marshall, 2023) .

Can people experience long-term side effects from taking Viagra?

Most of Viagra’s side effects are mild and temporary and will only last for a few days or weeks. Some serious side effects can have a long-term impact on your health. One condition is non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which can lead to permanent vision loss. NAION damages the optic nerve, which is crucial for vision. Another serious side effect is priapism, a long-lasting and painful erection that, if not treated promptly, can result in permanent damage and long-term health issues. If you experience any side effects that last longer than expected or are severe it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for advice (Brewer & Lewis, 2023) .

When should you see a doctor about any Viagra side effects that you experience?

You should see a doctor about any Viagra side effects you experience to ensure your safety and well-being. Always seek medical advice as soon as possible if you encounter side effects, especially if they are severe or last for an extended period. This is crucial regardless of the dosage of Viagra you are taking. Immediate medical attention is particularly important if you experience serious side effects such as chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sex, an erection lasting more than four hours (priapism), a sudden decrease or loss of vision, or a sudden decrease or loss of hearing.

Which Viagra side effects should you go to the hospital for?

Several Viagra side effects require immediate medical attention, and if you experience any of these symptoms, you may wish to visit the hospital. According to Mayo Clinic (2024) , these include:

• A prolonged or painful erection lasting four hours or more

• A sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes 

• A sudden decrease or loss of hearing, accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness and ringing in the ears

• If you already take medication for high blood pressure, sildenafil could potentially lower your blood pressure too much

How can I reduce the chance of experiencing side effects when I take Viagra?

To try and reduce the chance of experiencing side effects you should follow the below advice from NHS (2022) which explores avoiding the most common side effects:

Viagra Side Effects FAQs

Does Viagra (sildenafil) affect blood pressure?

Yes, Viagra (sildenafil) can affect blood pressure. Taking sildenafil alongside medications called nitrates, which are often prescribed for chest pain, can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure. It's essential to avoid combining Viagra with nitrates, as this combination can result in a potentially life-threatening situation. If you're unsure whether you're taking nitrates, it's crucial to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Viagra to avoid any adverse effects on blood pressure (NHS, 2022) .

How can you treat a Viagra headache?

Headaches associated with Viagra use are often dose-related, meaning that more people may experience headaches when using higher dosages of the medication (Brewer & Lewis, 2023) . To treat a headache caused by Viagra, it's best to allow yourself to rest in a quiet, dimly lit room. Turning off bright lights and avoiding loud noises may also provide relief. If the headache persists you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen. If you experience a severe headache or one that does not go away, it's important to speak with your doctor for further evaluation and guidance (Brewer & Marshall, 2023) .

Can you experience a heart attack when taking Viagra?

While using Viagra does not appear to increase the risk of a heart attack, it's essential to note that the medication can lower blood pressure, which may pose risks for individuals with certain health conditions, particularly those with high blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure or are taking other medications to lower it, it's important to consult your healthcare provider for further advice. A healthcare provider can assess your medical history and guide the use of Viagra based on your circumstances (Varma & Reis, 2023) .

Can my partner experience any side effects if I take Viagra?

No, if you take Viagra, your partner should not experience any side effects from the medication. Viagra works specifically on the blood vessels in the penis to help achieve and maintain an erection, so its effects are localised to the individual taking the medication. It's important to note that Viagra does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or prevent pregnancy. If you and your partner are sexually active it's crucial to use reliable birth control and practice safe sex to protect yourselves from STIs and prevent unintended pregnancy (Brewer & Lewis, 2023) .

Key Takeaways

Here are the biggest takeaways about Viagra and its side effects:

• While Viagra is commonly used for erectile dysfunction, some users may experience side effects, particularly older individuals, those with other health conditions, or those who misuse it.

• Headaches, nausea, indigestion, dizziness, and flushing are among the most common side effects of Viagra.

• Less common side effects include bladder pain, chest or stomach burning sensations, and unusual sensations such as tingling or numbness. Rare side effects include chest pain during sex, priapism (prolonged erection), sudden vision or hearing loss, and severe drops in blood pressure.

• While most side effects of Viagra are temporary, some serious side effects may have long-term consequences.

• It's essential to consult a doctor if you experience any side effects from Viagra, particularly if they are severe or persist. Immediate medical attention is warranted for serious side effects like chest pain, prolonged erection, sudden vision or hearing loss, or severe drops in blood pressure. 

Sources

Side effects of sildenafil - NHS

Viagra Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD

Viagra Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term - Drugs.com

Viagra: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings - Drugs.com

Sildenafil (Oral Route) Side Effects - Mayo Clinic