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Erectile dysfunction (ED) was once a problem that most men preferred to suffer silently. Everything changed when Viagra came out. A revolutionary weapon against erectile dysfunction, many men often ask this question: What is the shelf life of Viagra?
The Viagra revolution is undoubtedly successful. Since it got approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) more than 22 years ago, Viagra has been helping countless men worldwide.
If you are one of the men who have been using or are about to use Viagra, you’re on the right track. In this article, we are going to tell you about Viagra’s shelf life.
But first, let’s take a look at how Viagra works.
How Does Viagra Work?
Viagra’s main ingredient is sildenafil citrate, a substance that has a localized effect on your penis. It helps you get an erection. Viagra does this by affecting the process of getting an erection [1].
Basically, an erection is a hydraulic event. Blood enters your manhood through arteries carrying blood to the penis’ corpora cavernosa. The corpora cavernosa are two shafts of spongy tissue. They contain the sinusoids, which are vascular channels.
An erection occurs when the walls of the arteries relax. They widen and bring more blood to small vessels called sinusoids. The corpora cavernosa then swells. This pressures and compresses the sinusoids, which prevent the extra blood from leaving the penis. As a result, an erection occurs [2].
However, the arteries cannot relax without the presence of the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Men with little to no cGMP do not get an erection. The culprit behind this is phosphodiesterase type 5, an enzyme that breaks cGMP down.
This is where Viagra comes in. It prevents the production of the said enzyme. As a result, your body produces more cGMP. You can then get an erection.
How Long Does Viagra Last?
Viagra is usually prescribed by doctors on an as-per-need basis. It is the best option if you are having ED symptoms from time to time. After all, it is safe to take Viagra occasionally.
Additionally, Viagra can help you get an erection for as early as 12 minutes in a few patients, and 30 minutes for most. For most people, it takes 30 minutes to cause a proper erection. Its effect can last for a minimum of 4 hours and a maximum of 6 hours [3].
Viagra’s effects also depend on your age, diet, and psychological state. If you are older, eat healthy food, and have a good mindset, Viagra might work longer [4].
What Is the Shelf Life of Viagra?
In general, Viagra can last for up to 2 years after the date of manufacture [5]. However, Viagra’s shelf life depends on various factors. If you and your pharmacy store Viagra properly, it can last for up to 2 years. If not, then its shelf life is less than two years.
Always take note of the expiration date printed on the bottle. Never take expired Viagra because it can be harmful.
