Understanding does viagra raises blood pressure is very important if you are thinking about taking your first pill, especially if you already deal with high blood pressure.
So, does viagra raise blood pressure? It might be surprising, but the answer is no. In fact, viagra does the opposite – it lowers your blood pressure. But then that leads to problems you need to understand.
Understanding How Viagra Works in the Body
Viagra contains the active ingredient sildenafil and affects all blood vessels in your body. Taking viagra leads to relaxation of the walls of the blood vessels, making them wider (diameter). That is how you improve blood flow.
A single dose of Viagra has been shown to lower blood pressure by about 8 points on top and 5 points on bottom. This happens for the same reason that it helps with erections. It also opens up blood vessels in your heart, lungs, and in the penis.
Sildenafil is used to treat low blood pressure in the lung vessels. So, when people ask Does Viagra make you harder, they’re confused.
The vessel dilation is good for erections, but dangerous if you are taking certain heart medications. This is how Viagra works in the body and you can’t just take viagra without discussing it with your doctor first.
Why You Can’t Take Viagra with High Blood Pressure (Sometimes)
Some men can take Viagra with high blood pressure. While others absolutely cannot. The difference is the other medications they might be taking.
Never take Viagra if you are taking nitrates. Nitrates are medications like nitroglycerin for chest pain. If you take Viagra and nitrates, you could lower your blood pressure so low that it can cause death.
Alpha blockers are another concern, as they treat both high blood pressure and prostate disorders. If you are on high blood pressure medications like alpha blockers, you could possibly pass out from low blood pressure if taking viagra.
Also Read: Cialis vs. Levitra for Erectile Dysfunction
Safe Viagra Use for People with Blood Pressure Concerns
Most men with hypertension can take Viagra. Healthline says ED medications are generally safe for men with blood pressure that is well-controlled.
Requirements for Safe Use:
- Your blood pressure must be under 140/90 (well controlled)
- High blood pressure (over 180/110) must be treated first
- Review the list of every medication you take with your doctor
- Start on the lowest dose (generally 25mg)
- Time your medications as necessary to avoid negative interactions
If you have high blood pressure and want to try Viagra, here are some changes you will need to make:
- Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Viagra
- Stay hydrated all day
- Avoid jumping from a sitting or lying position to standing
- Focus on your responses when you start taking Viagra
- Directly contact help in the case of an emergency
This is especially important for men with diabetes who may be looking for the best ED pill for diabetes.
Some men even consider gas station sex pills as alternatives, but those are often unsafe and unregulated compared to prescription Viagra.
Common Side Effects Related to Blood Pressure
Headaches are very common. When you take Viagra, the blood vessels in your head open, which causes headaches. Facial flushing occurs when you take Viagra because the blood vessels open in the face as well.
Dizziness, especially when getting up to a standing position, may occur because of drops in blood pressure. This is much easier to experience when you are dehydrated or have been drinking.
Be alert for significant symptoms such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, an extreme headache, or fainting, as these can indicate your blood pressure has dropped too low to need medical attention. While most men taking Viagra tolerate it well, cardiovascular side effects can be serious in some individuals.
How to Talk to Your Doctor About Viagra and Blood Pressure
Before Your Appointment – Prepare This Information:
- Full list of all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, supplements)
- Recent blood pressure measured at home
- History of any blood pressure-related symptoms
- Information about your ED (how long and how severe)
- Questions around timing and dosing
Be completely honest with your physician about everything you take. Don’t leave anything out, herbal supplements included, as many can interact with prescribed medications.
Let your physician know about your past history with blood pressure. Share any symptoms you may have experienced with blood pressure fluctuations.
Ask direct questions:
- When should I take it in comparison to my other medications?
- What blood pressures should I be concerned about?
- When should I call for help?
Where to Buy FDA-Approved Viagra Safely Online
Only buy medications from legitimate pharmacies that require a prescription. Fake Viagra can be dangerous for anyone. It can be especially dangerous if you have high blood pressure.
Make sure the pharmacy is licensed. You can verify legitimate online pharmacies with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.
If you’re looking for safe ways to save money, check licensed platforms that offer cheap medicine online instead of going for unsafe or counterfeit options.
Some telemedicine services allow you to talk with doctors online, and the doctor can prescribe medication. You should be cautious that the telemedicine service is legitimate, has a reputable medical history, and has the proper licenses.
Don’t buy from any website that does not have a prescription or has pricing that seems too low. These risks are not worth a few dollars.
Conclusion
So does viagra raise blood pressure? No, it lowers blood pressure in men who take viagra with high blood pressure. This puts men at risk if they are taking certain heart medications. Most men with medically controlled high blood pressure can safely use viagra with a prescription under the supervision of a medical professional.
Most importantly, do not use Viagra without consulting your doctor first. This is especially important for men with heart conditions or who are taking blood pressure medications. With a good health professional, most men can safely treat their ED and also maintain their heart health.
FAQs
1: Can I take Viagra if I have high blood pressure?
Many men with controlled high blood pressure may take Viagra safely. You just need to be evaluated by your physician first.
2: Could Viagra make my blood pressure worse?
No, Viagra generally lowers blood pressure, but this could be an issue with certain heart medications.
3: Which blood pressure medications can’t I take with Viagra?
Do not take Viagra with nitrates. Alpha-blockers need monitoring. The majority of BP medications should be safe.
4: How long after I take my blood pressure medication can I take Viagra?
This depends upon what specific medications you are taking. You should ask your doctor for the recommended timing.
5: What if I feel dizzy after taking Viagra?
Sit down right away, and if better doesn’t happen quickly, then call your doctor.
6: Should I stop my blood pressure medication before I take Viagra?
Never stop taking prescribed medications without contacting your healthcare provider.
7: Is there a safer alternative for men who have blood pressure issues?
Other ED medications will have a similar effect, and your doctor will help you find one that is recommended for you.
8: Can I check my blood pressure at home while I am using Viagra?
Yes, checking at home helps you and your doctor to be more informed.
