Viagra Overdose

Viagra (sildenafil) is a prescription medicine approved by the FDA for treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Since the first release of Viagra in 1998, it has gained so much popularity not just among men suffering from erectile dysfunction but also among others who do not actually need the drug at all. There are also some individuals who use this medication as an entertainment drug and not entirely for treatment of ED. People taking Viagra without prescription have greater chances of experiencing an overdose although it can also occur in people taking the drug under medical supervision.

Clinical studies show that individuals who to took a single dose of 800 mg Viagra report the same adverse events as those who took lower doses of the medication. However, the incidence of Viagra overdose is more common in people taking higher doses of Viagra.

Like other erectile dysfunction drugs, Viagra can stay in the blood for up to 24 hours. Therefore, healthcare providers recommend limiting intake of Viagra to one pill per day.

Viagra Overdose Symptoms

Taking too much Viagra can lead to certain physical symptoms that include:

• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Irregular heartbeat
• Feeling light-headed or fainting

Aside from these overdose symptoms, taking Viagra more than the recommended dose increases the risk of serious adverse effects such as low blood pressure, prolonged painful erections that lasts for four hours (priapism), life-threatening cardiovascular event, and even death (although rarely reported). If you develop any of these serious side effects, stop taking Viagra and consult your healthcare provider right away.

Managing and Preventing a Viagra Overdose

If you suspect someone has accidentally or intentionally overdose on Viagra, seek medical attention right away. Contact your healthcare provider or local poison control for proper treatment. In case of severe overdose, especially with loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical help.

If not properly treated, Viagra overdose can lead to life-threatening complications. Be sure to talk with your physician for appropriate medical help, even if drug overdose does not present any symptom.

Prevenation

Do not take this medication unless you have prescription. Take the drug exactly as instructed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dose unless specifically instructed. Viagra does not instantly cause an erection. It only helps men achieve an erection. Sexual stimulation is necessary to achieve an erection.

It is also important to avoid medications and substances that can potentially interfere with the metabolism and mechanism of action of Viagra. Grapefruit is a potent compound that can reduce the breakdown and elimination of this medication. Therefore, you should avoid consuming grapefruit containing products while taking this ED drug. Grapefruit can stay in the blood for up to 24 hours so do not take Viagra for at least one day.

Do not use Viagra together with other medications for erectile dysfunction, such as tadalafil (Cialis) and vardenafil (Levitra). It is also not safe to use Viagra with nitrates. Lastly, do not share your prescription with others. Your dose may not be appropriate for others.