Viagra (sildenafil) for Erectile Dysfunction & Female Sexual Arousal Disorder in MS

ViagraĀ (sildenafil) is used to treat erectile dysfunction, one of the most common complaints of men with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Viagra belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesteraseĀ inhibitors, which are recommended first-line treatments for maleĀ impotence because they delay the action of enzymes that interfere with erectile function. The drugĀ relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow to the penis, helping to produce an erection when a man is sexually aroused. Without physical stimulation of the penis, Viagra will not produce an erection. Ā It can be prescribed for men withĀ MS.

Though Viagra has been considered as possibly beneficial for womenĀ with sexual arousal disorders, it is not FDA approved for women. However, the FDA has approved a prescription medication known as Addyi (flibanserin) to treat low sexual desire in premenopausal women.

Viagra is taken orallyĀ when needed but only once per day, 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. ItĀ continues to work up to four hours.

The most common side effects of Viagra are headache, flushing, upset stomach, abnormal color vision (blue tint), blurred vision, stuffy or runny nose, back pain, muscle pain, nausea, dizziness, and rash.

Currently, there isĀ Ā no genericĀ equivalent for Viagra in the U.S.

Erectile impotence is common forĀ men with MS, but other sexual issues can also beĀ present. Although the causes of erectile dysfunction are largely unknown, they could be pathological or psychological in origin.

Sexual arousal, response, and orgasm require communication between the brain and sexual organs via the spinal cord.Ā WhenĀ nerve damage is causedĀ by MS, both men and women with the disease may experience sexual problems such as hypo-orgasmia or anorgasmia. For women, the problems can also include decreased vaginal secretion and reduced libido. For men, erectile, ejaculatory, or orgasmic dysfunction, and reduced libido can also occur.

Note: Multiple Sclerosis News TodayĀ is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.