Combining Alcohol With Viagra | Is It Safe?

Viagra, the brand name for sildenafil, is commonly referred to as the “little blue pill.” Viagra is a prescription drug focusing on sexual health by treating erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. 

Other sexual dysfunction drugs include Cialis (tadalafil), Revatio (sildenafil) and Levitra (vardenafil).

Sildenafil is also used to treat chest pain and pulmonary artery hypertension which causes shortness of breath, tiredness, dizziness, and high blood pressure in the blood vessels which carry blood to the lungs.

Although sexual dysfunction is common among those with alcohol dependence, combining excessive alcohol consumption with the use of Viagra can cause more problems. In fact, alcohol can worsen the side effects of Viagra. 

Viagra

If you’re struggling with sexual performance, Viagra may be prescribed to help with your sexual activity. Sexual desire and stimulation are needed for Viagra to be effective. 

The active ingredient in Viagra is sildenafil citrate, which is helpful for ED treatment. This type of drug is called a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. These inhibitors help to relax the muscles of the penis.

Some common side effects of Viagra may include:

• heartburn
• lightheadedness
• headache
• indigestion
• muscle aches
• sensitivity to light
• diarrhea
• sleeping difficulties

Other, more serious side effects from taking Viagra can include:

• chest pain
• fainting
• hearing loss
• blurred vision
• dizziness
• ringing in ears
• nosebleeds

Is It Safe To Drink Alcohol While Taking Viagra?

Those drinking alcohol and taking Viagra may experience more extreme side effects. Alcohol use can worsen the side effects of Viagra, causing one to experience effects much greater than those of Viagra alone.

Those who have a pre-existing condition of cardiovascular disease may want to avoid Viagra and alcohol due to the many disruptions with blood flow and the fluctuations of blood pressure which can occur. 

Drinks To Avoid & Drinks To Consider

Those taking Viagra will want to stay away from grapefruit and grapefruit juice which can cause an increased risk of a heart attack, low blood pressure, heart palpitations, and headaches. 

For those looking to have a glass of wine before becoming intimate, mixing Viagra is likely not dangerous. When a person engages in too many alcoholic drinks, however, the side effects of Viagra can be greatly enhanced, which is what can cause major health concerns.

No matter the amount of alcohol you consume, it’s always important to understand the risks and to consult your doctor before taking a drug or drinking a form of alcohol. Your wellness is of the most importance. 

Alcohol

Those who partake in heavy alcohol consumption may experience immediate side effects of alcohol such as:

• lack of coordination
• slowed breathing
• slurred speech
• mood changes
• memory problems
• vision impairment
• alcohol poisoning

Long-Term Health Concerns Of Heavy Drinking

Long-term health concerns from heavy drinking or binge drinking may result in:

• pancreatitis
• stroke
• cancers of the throat
• weakened immune system
• liver inflammation
• cardiomyopathy
• high blood pressure

Increasing your alcohol intake can also raise your cholesterol which may lead to diabetes. Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that slows body functions. 

Because of this, it is not recommended to drink and take Viagra. However, drinking in moderation or in small amounts may pose no problems to your health. 

If you or a loved one struggle with alcohol abuse, call our helpline to determine which healthcare options are best for you.