An Overview of Viagra Uses
Viagra® (
sildenafil citrate) is a medication that has been licensed to treat
erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (
ED), also known as
impotence, is defined as a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. Essentially, erectile dysfunction is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
Viagra is very effective at treating erectile dysfunction. The medication works by blocking a chemical that causes blood to flow out of the penis. More blood in the penis means an improved erection.
Viagra Uses in Children, Newborns, and Women
Viagra is not approved for use in children, newborns, or women.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Viagra for something other than the conditions listed above. This is called an "
off-label" use. Some off-label uses of Viagra include the treatment of: