Viagra is a drug developed by Pfizer and is used mainly to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men but can also be used to treat high blood pressure. Viagra has been available in South africa since 1998 after approval following clinical testing. When used for ED, Viagra does not provide a cure for the patient. Nor does it by itself result in the patient getting an erection. It requires sexual stimulation alongside and if this is provided, taking Viagra can cause an erection lasting up to 4 hours. (Medical attention is necessary if the erection lasts longer than 4 hours and this can happen very occasionally). It is advised that Viagra is taken no more than once per day about 30 minutes to an hour prior to sexual activity, preferably not accompanied by food. Taking Viagra with food can delay its effectiveness.
Side effects
Viagra’s main side effects include headaches, indigestion, muscle and back pain, blurred vision and dizziness. It is estimated that 10% of Viagra users experience some or all of these side effects with higher doses increasing the chances of one or more of the side effects. It can also be harmful to patients with heart and kidney problems, or when taken with other medication. It is therefore strongly advised that prospective users discuss its use with a doctor who will prescribe the dosage based on the patient’s age, the reason for ED and other health conditions and medications being taken. Viagra’s generic name is sildenafil and is sold by prescription only in most countries. Given the nature of its use, it is also one of the most counterfeited drugs in the world. While many online vendors claim to sell Viagra most of them are likely not genuine. So, in South africa as in most developed nations, it is strongly advised to purchase Viagra from reputable pharmacies only with a doctor’s prescription. Viagra is regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA) in South africa and selling Viagra without a prescription is an offense punishable by fine or imprisonment. Viagra for ED is sold as solid oral tablets in 25, 50 and 100 mg doses. It is widely known as the “blue pill” because of its color and the color is consistent throughout – with no lighter or darker patches. It is sold in a packet of 4 tablets and each tablet is diamond-shaped with a smooth surface. Any product that does not have not have the aforementioned characteristics is likely not genuine. The TGA has also issued warnings about a product called “Viagra 007” which they say is not related to Viagra and poses significant health risks. When purchased with a doctor’s prescription at a reputable pharmacy, the cost to the patient is $6.20 per packet of Viagra irrespective of the dose because the Australian Pharmacy Benefits Scheme subsidizes the drug. The cost (and risks of getting a counterfeit product) are higher when it is purchased over the internet. One newspaper claimed to purchase Viagra and other medication over the internet for $150.
There have also been newspaper reports of Viagra being sold over the counter at sex-shops in South africa for about $15 per packet to boost falling profits from other material/products. The Viagra sold here is most likely also not genuine and is being done in spite of the sex shops being warned by the authorities to refrain from selling it.00
Medical Practitioner (General Practice) with postgraduate diplomas in Cape Town. My special interest is erectile dysfunction.