Viagra and Grapefruit

Grapefruit is an excellent source of vitamin C and other nutrients. However, for men taking ED medications, including Viagra (Sildenafil), consuming grapefruit-containing foods, juice and beverages is not advised. Grapefruit contains certain substances that can interfere with the metabolism of Viagra.

Possible Side Effects

Viagra is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as PDE-5 Inhibitors. Although the interaction between PDE5 inhibitors and grapefruit is relatively minimal, healthcare providers recommend avoiding grapefruit products. Grapefruit may increase the blood levels of Viagra which increases the risk of side effects such as:

• low blood pressure
• dizziness
• headache
• flushing

Therefore, drinking grapefruit juice while using Viagra is not a good idea. Even a single glass of grapefruit can significantly increase the risk of side effects. Studies show that one glass of grapefruit juice can substantially (up to 47%) reduce the amount of enzyme needed by the body to absorb and process Viagra.

Not only does grapefruit increase the risk of side effects. It may also delay the effects of Viagra which can lead to disappointing sexual outcome. This could add to the stress and anxiety which may be the underlying cause of the sexual dysfunction. And because of the delayed effects of Viagra, it is possible for you to experience side effects even after 24 hours of taking the tablet. It could also cause unwanted erections.

What Studies Say

In one clinical study, it was reported that drinking grapefruit together with Viagra increased the absorption of the drug by 23%. This is substantial increase in dose poses danger on the user. Take note that your healthcare provider prescribed a dose that best suits your situation and increasing it can cause harm to you. Not only does grapefruit affect Viagra, it may also affect other medications currently taken which can further lead to drug interactions.

Preventing Grapefruit-Viagra Interactions

To prevent possible drug interactions and its complications, it is important to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice. It is also important to understand that grapefruit can stay in the body for up to 24 hours. This means that you should not take grapefruit even if you use Viagra only on as needed basis. Since it is difficult to predict when you will be taking Viagra, it is wise to avoid grapefruit altogether.

You should consider switching to other fruits similar to grapefruit but do not interact with Viagra. Some of the possible alternatives include oranges, limes, Seville oranges, tangelos, lemons, and other citrus fruits. If you are really hooked on grapefruit juice, you should consult your healthcare provider for a possible change in medication. Furthermore, if you have consumed grapefruit, you should not take Viagra at least for day. Although some people taking low dose of Viagra may be able to safely drink grapefruit juice, this is not the case for all people. To be safe, individuals taking Viagra, regardless of the dose and frequency, are advised against drinking grapefruit juice.