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Wednesday, 17 September 2008 |
 Can Viagra trigger heart attack?
Viagra is a boon to millions of patients suffering from erectile dysfunction. The drug has helped them make a difference in relationships that have suffered from the physical and psychological effects of erectile dysfunction. Viagra is the first erectile dysfunction drug approved by the Food and Drug Authority. It remains a market leader from the time it was approved up to now despite the existence of other erectile dysfunction drugs. But like most drugs, Viagra is not without side effects although most doctors consider these minor side effects which can be ignored or minimized. It is thus important that erectile dysfunction patients should check with their doctors before taking in Viagra.
Despite Viagra’s general mark of safety, patients are still wary about taking in Viagra for fear that it can trigger a heart attack. Doctors confirm that Viagra or Sildenafil is generally safe for patients with erectile dysfunction even if they have angina provided they are not taking nitrates. Patients with hypertension or heart disease can still use Viagra but not with Nitrates.
Nitrates, in any form, should not be taken in with Viagra . Nitrate patches, Nitroglycerin tablets, amyl nitrate or nitroglycerin sprays can interact with Viagra and can have negative side effects so it should not be taken in at the same time.
Compared to its competitor Cialis or Tadalafil, Viagra is a lot safer for men with heart diseases. Cialis stays in the blood longer and has a longer duration unlike Viagra so it may be disadvantageous for erectile dysfunction patients who have heart problems. And unlike Viagra or Levitra which allows the intake of nitroglycerin after 24 hours of intake, Cialis disallows the intake of nitroglycerin for 48 hours.
If you are suffering from a heart ailment then it is important that you consult with your doctor before taking in any medication especially if these are erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra. The regular sexual act is considered a moderate exercise in terms of intensity. It raises the heart beat at 130 beats per minute but this is a rare occurrence. Systolic pressure also stays below 170 during the traditional sexual act. Despite these reassuring facts Viagra is still a prescription drug so make sure you get the right prescription from your doctor.
Your doctor can conduct a physical check up and determine if Viagra is appropriate for you given your heart ailment. In most cases, getting the right dose of Viagra can ensure your safety and this is only possible if you are getting the right prescription for erectile dysfunction.
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