When taking any medication, it’s essential that you understand possible drug interactions. Drug interactions refer to potential problems that can result from taking certain drugs together. These problems may include reduced effectiveness, unpleasant side effects, or intensified symptoms. In some cases, drug interactions can be harmful and even life-threatening.
Mixing alcohol with Viagra can be dangerous, especially if you struggle with an alcohol use disorder. Let’s get into what you need to know.
Does Alcohol Affect Viagra?
Although many men don’t think twice about mixing Viagra and beer, there are inherent risks associated with mixing sildenafil and alcohol. These risks are amplified if the man struggles with excessive alcohol consumption.
In general, the CDC notes that men should moderate alcohol by limiting their intake to two drinks or less a day. They also indicate that men in recovery from alcohol use disorder (or those who feel like they cannot control their drinking) should abstain entirely.
It isn’t considered problematic to mix alcohol and Viagra if you drink in moderation. With that in mind, it’s important to understand what constitutes a drink. A single drink refers to:
- 12 oz of beer.
- 5 oz of wine.
- 1.5 oz of liquor.
If you are drinking cocktails or other mixed drinks, it can be difficult to tell the exact alcohol content. Some drinks may contain as many as 3-4 shots of alcohol. Additionally, once you start drinking, your inhibitions may decrease, leading you to continue drinking.
However, binge drinking can cancel the effects of Viagra altogether. That’s because the two drugs start competing against one another. While Viagra aims to stimulate blood flow, alcohol inhibits blood flow.
How Viagra Works
Viagra (sildenafil citrate) is a prescription medication designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Viagra works by helping men achieve and maintain an erection during sexual activity.
It increases blood flow to the penis, which can help support an erection. Viagra typically takes about 30-60 minutes to kick in, and men can use it on an as-needed basis.
Like all medications, Viagra has a risk of side effects. Some typical side effects include:
- Nasal congestion
- Light sensitivity.
- Indigestion.
- Headaches.
- Stomach pains.
That said, Viagra tends to be a fairly safe medication. Research shows that it can be highly effective in treating erectile dysfunction. After taking this drug, anywhere from 43%-83% of men reported improved erections.
Click here to learn more about alcoholism.
Understanding Common Side Effects of Alcohol
Alcohol is a depressant, and it slows down necessary brain activity and body functions. Alcohol impacts each person differently, but the common effects of drinking include:
- Distorted sense of self and others.
- Drowsiness.
- Increased spontaneity or impulsive behavior.
- Feelings of relaxation.
- Anxiety.
- Depression.
- Unsteady coordination.
When it comes to sex drive, alcohol can temporarily increase your libido. Many people feel a sense of giddiness and relaxation after a drink. But the effects may not last for very long. Drinking alcohol can make it challenging for men to achieve erections or reach orgasm.
Subsequently, being under the influence can impact your judgment. You might be more willing to engage in sexual risks, which can lead to lasting, long-term consequences.
What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?
It is estimated that approximately 14.1 million Americans suffer from alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use disorder refers to the long-term and chronic abuse of alcohol. Symptoms of alcohol use disorder include:
- Consistently drinking more alcohol than desired.
- Lying, sneaking, or otherwise hiding alcohol consumption.
- Drinking in dangerous situations, like when driving or watching small children.
- Continuing to drink despite problems at school or work.
- Experiencing medical issues due to drinking.
- Developing a tolerance to alcohol (needing to drink more to achieve the desired effect).
- Having withdrawal symptoms when abstaining or cutting down from alcohol.
People can have mild, moderate, or severe alcohol use disorders. The severity depends on how much the addiction impacts their overall functioning. Alcohol abuse can be progressive- this means that problems can continue to develop if you do not seek help.
Final Thoughts
You may take Viagra and alcohol safely together, but it can also represent a slippery slope. If you believe that you or someone you know suffers from addiction to alcohol, please contact one of our addiction specialists and call (866) 578-7471.
References
12 comments
Yeah, the effects are very bad. As the medication suggests, the person should use Viagra only if he uses as the impacts can be harsh.
Thankfully I never needed this nor will I need this he he. Thanks for the info though. I am all for drugs on particular for medicinal purposes but NO to abuse. May it be Viagra or not nothing good will come out of it.
To me, I think this two shouldn’t be mixed together just to be on a safe side. Once the system is used to it, it will be difficult for any form of erection without this drugs.
Well, personally if I know it wouldn’t be go well with me. Which I know it wouldn’t by the way. It will better to a avoid it.
Addiction is really one thing that have really eaten deep into our economy. Even some people are addicted to certain things not knowing. This mixture is really bad, I won’t advice my enemy to do this
I wonder why on earth do people mix alcohol. There is a lot danger doing that. Thanks for sharing life saving post.
The two aren’t good at all, especially more dangerous when used together.
I personally don’t think its a good idea. It is better safe than sorry at the end. Let’s don’t complicate things.
Very helpful post, I’m sure that many men take viagra to improve their sexual activity and they may not know that mixing viagra and alcohol could have negative effects.
This is my first time hearing about mixing alcohol with viagra. I didn’t know that people do that. Quite strange if you ask me. Despite that, I know learned new knowledge because of this.
I never knew that Viagra is a fairly safe medication. Good to know it can be highly effective in treating erectile dysfunction and also mproved erections.
This is definitely something good to avoid. Thanks for listing all the side effects especially for someone who’s had previous alcohol disorders.