Viagra and Heart Health: Enjoying a Sex Life with a Heart Condition

More than 50% of men with a heart condition find themselves struggling to get or keep an erection. ¹ In times like these, ED meds like Viagra come in handy.

But can men with heart conditions safely enjoy the benefits of Viagra? In today's mailMymeds article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the effect of the little blue pill on heart health.

How Does Viagra Work?

Before we get into the nitty gritty of heart health and Viagra, it’s important to understand how men get an erection and where Viagra fits into the picture.

When you get aroused, your brain sends a signal to your penis to release a chemical called nitric oxide. This chemical kick starts a process that relaxes the muscles and blood vessels in your penis, allowing more blood to flow in and leading to an erection. ²

The loss of an erection is caused by a compound called PDE5. Viagra blocks PDE5, keeping your blood vessels relaxed so you can maintain an erection for a satisfying time. ²

Is Viagra Bad for Your Heart?

Viagra is safe for healthy hearts. But if you have a heart condition, it's crucial to talk to your doctor before taking Viagra because of its impact on blood vessels. ²

You see, Viagra relaxes blood vessels across your whole body, not just your penis. This leads to a small, temporary drop in blood pressure in everyone who takes it. This drop isn’t a problem in healthy men, but it could cause issues for men with heart conditions. ²

That doesn't mean Viagra is off-limits if you have a heart issue. Your doctor will look at your medical history to decide if it's safe for you. They might keep a closer eye on you during treatment or suggest other options for ED.

Viagra and Heart Medications

If you're on heart meds, let your doctor know before taking Viagra. Some meds don't mix well with ED pills, while others might need supervision.

Nitrates, for example, shouldn't be taken with Viagra because they both relax blood vessels. Taking nitrates with Viagra can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure. If you're taking nitrates, Viagra isn't suitable for you. ²

For the same reason, alpha-blockers and anti-hypertensives can also lead to low blood pressure when taken with Viagra. ² If you're on these meds, the good news is the little blue pill may still be an option. Your doctor will work with you to figure out if Viagra is safe for you.

Can I Take Viagra If I Have Heart Palpitations?

Most of the time, heart palpitations are harmless and caused by things like too much caffeine, nicotine, or anxiety. ³

But if heart palpitations are a symptom of a bigger issue like a heart rhythm problem, talk to your doctor before taking Viagra. ³ Depending on your condition and meds, your doctor might monitor you more closely during treatment or suggest other ED solutions.

Can You Take Viagra with a Heart Condition?

Most men with heart conditions can safely take Viagra. But for certain heart diseases, it might not be safe. There are 2 big reasons for this: Viagra can drop your blood pressure, and it can't be taken with nitrates. ²

The FDA recommends that Viagra should be prescribed carefully to men who:

• Had a heart attack, stroke, or life-threatening heart arrhythmia in the last 6 months.
• Have low blood pressure at rest.
• Have chest pain at rest. ²

To use Viagra safely, accurately complete the consultation questionnaire. Your responses guide board-certified physicians in determining an appropriate prescription based on your health assessment. To get started, place an order for Viagra and get assessed today.

FAQs

Who should not use Viagra?

According to the FDA, men taking nitrates should steer clear of Viagra. The reason is that both Viagra and nitrates have blood pressure-lowering effects and combining them can result in a dangerous drop in blood pressure. ²

Additionally, Viagra is not recommended if your doctor advises against sex due to a heart condition. ²

Can you still take Viagra with high blood pressure medication?

For many men using blood pressure meds, ED drugs like Viagra are generally safe, although your doctor might keep a closer eye on you. The exception to this is nitrates. The FDA emphasizes that combining Viagra with nitrates is a no-go. ²

You see, Viagra and blood pressure meds both decrease blood pressure. Combining them can cause your blood pressure to drop further. In the case of nitrates, the drop in blood pressure can reach dangerous levels. ²

Does Viagra make your heart beat harder?

Some men may experience a harder and stronger heartbeat after taking Viagra. This is because of Viagra's blood pressure-lowering effect. As blood pressure decreases, the heart responds by beating more rapidly and forcefully. Don't worry; this side effect is temporary and usually disappears as the med wears off. ⁴

The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice. In all circumstances, you should always seek the advice of your physician and/or other qualified health professionals(s) for drug, medical condition, or treatment advice. The content provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.