Levitra Treats Erectile Dysfunction Effectively In Men Taking Medications To Lower High Blood Pressure, Study

Levitra (vardenafil HCl), a PDE5 inhibitor, is effective in treating erectile dysfunction (ED) in men receiving one or more medications for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure),(1) according to data published in a recent issue of The Journal of Sexual Medicine. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, patients treated with LEVITRA experienced an 83% overall success rate in erectile function while also receiving one or more anti-hypertensive medications.

"This study demonstrated that LEVITRA was well-tolerated when used concomitantly with anti-hypertensive medications in patients not previously treated with PDE5 inhibitors," said study author Dr. Hermann van Ahlen, University of Muenster, Germany.

Hypertension, a major risk factor for ED, affects 29.4 million men in the United States(2). It is one of the most common medical conditions, along with diabetes and high cholesterol, associated with ED. In addition many blood-pressure-lowering medications, particularly beta-blockers and diuretics, may adversely affect erectile function.

"As a primary care physician, I know that my male patients are often concerned about taking anti-hypertensive drugs for fear of the potential sexual side effects," said Dr. Matthew Rosenberg, medical director at Mid-Michigan Health Centers in Jackson, MI. "This study gives me support to tell patients that I can treat hypertension and also prescribe an effective medication to treat ED. The fact that LEVITRA improved erectile function in patients taking multiple anti-hypertensive medications is a testimony to its efficacy."

About the study

Study investigators carried out a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of flexible-dose LEVITRA in men with treated hypertension and ED who had not previously used LEVITRA or other PDE5 inhibitors. In this study, use of alpha blockers was not permitted. The study, conducted at 98 primary care sites in Germany, involved 354 patients over age 18 who had experienced ED for more than 6 months. Participants received either placebo or LEVITRA, in a dose ranging from 5 mg to 20 mg, for 12 weeks. To measure the drug's efficacy, the patients kept diaries of their responses to standardized questions regarding their erectile function.

LEVITRA was well-tolerated and effective at improving all ED efficacy parameters. There was no significant difference in the frequency of adverse events when patients were grouped according to the type of anti-hypertensive medications being received. Compared with placebo, LEVITRA significantly improved patients' ability to successfully have intercourse. The success rate was 83% for men treated with LEVITRA vs 58% for placebo (P <>

Background: Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the consistent or recurrent inability of a man to attain and/or maintain a penile erection sufficient for sexual performance. ED can be a total inability to achieve an erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. It is estimated that some degree of ED affects up to 30 million men in the United States.

Some of the most common treatments for ED include adjustments to lifestyle and better control of concomitant medical conditions as well as the use of oral medications or other forms of therapy. Treating related health conditions or reducing stress may help maintain erectile function. LEVITRA belongs to a class of medications called oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which are among the most successful treatments for ED. There are currently three FDA-approved oral PDE5 inhibitors available.

About LEVITRA

LEVITRA is an FDA-approved oral prescription medication for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It belongs to a class of medications commonly referred to as oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, the most commonly prescribed treatments for men with ED. LEVITRA helps increase blood flow to the penis and may help men with ED get and keep an erection satisfactory for sexual activity.

LEVITRA, developed by Bayer Healthcare and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), is jointly promoted in the U.S. by GSK and Schering-Plough Corporation.

Important Safety and Dosing Information

LEVITRA is a prescription medicine that is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Men taking nitrate drugs, often used to control chest pain (also known as angina), should not take LEVITRA. Such combinations could cause blood pressure to drop to an unsafe level.

As with all ED drugs, there is a rare risk of an erection lasting longer than four hours. To avoid long-term injury, seek immediate medical attention. LEVITRA does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. In rare instances, men taking PDE5 inhibitors (oral erectile dysfunction medicine, including LEVITRA) reported a sudden decrease or loss of vision in one or both eyes. It is not possible to determine whether these events are related directly to these medicines or to other factors. If you experience sudden decrease or loss of vision, stop taking PDE5 inhibitors, including LEVITRA, and call a doctor right away.

Discuss your medical conditions, including heart problems, and medications, including alpha blockers prescribed for prostate problems or high blood pressure, with your doctor to ensure LEVITRA is right for you and that you are healthy enough for sexual activity.

The starting dose of LEVITRA is 10 mg taken no more than once per day. Your doctor will decide the dose that is right for you. In patients taking alpha blockers, your doctor may start you on a lower dose of LEVITRA. In patients taking certain medications such as ritonavir, indinavir, ketoconazole, itraconazole, and erythromycin, lower doses of LEVITRA are recommended, and time between doses of LEVITRA may need to be extended.

In clinical trials, the most commonly reported side effects were headache, flushing, and stuffy or runny nose. LEVITRA is available in 2.5-mg, 5-mg, 10-mg, and 20-mg tablets.

How to Use Viagra and Other Erection Drugs

The world of erection impairment changed dramatically on March 27, 1998—the day the Food and Dose Administration approved the little blasphemous pill. Viagra is used for treatment of erection impairment, at present medically called erectile dysfunction (ED). Viagra was not the outset drug treatment for erection impairment (see Yohimbine below), but it was the one that captured the public’s imagination. Viagra took the U.S.—and the world—by storm. During its number 1 month of availability, American doctors wrote more than 300,000 prescriptions, making Viagra the fastest-selling new drug in history. Inside six months, repeat prescriptions were being written at the rate of 100,000 per calendar month. Today, Viagra is one of the most successful drugs always marketed. More than 10 meg men have taken more than 125 million tablets. Annual gross sales approach $2 billion. And with millions of male Baby Boomers in their 50s, the future of the little blue pill—and other erection medications—looks bright.

1. Step One

Be aware the erection medication is not the answer to every man’s erection problem, though erection medication certainly has a place in treatment of ED. Many erection difficulties are caused by sexual anxiety, and resolve when men learn more about sexual activity, relax about it, and espouse a less penis-centered, holistic and sensual approach to lovemaking. Other erection difficulties are caused by medical problems and resolve when the illnesses are treated. Many erection problems are caused by drugs (notably alcohol and cigarettes) and drug side effects and can be helped by cutting back on alcohol, quitting smoke, or tinkering with prescriptions.

2. Step Two

Know how erection medications work. Currently there are four prescription drugs available for erection problems: Sildenafil, Levitra, Cialis and Yohimbine. They all essentially work the same way. Sexual arousal stimulates release of a compound, nitric oxide (NO), in the penis. Nitrous oxide, in turn, triggers synthesis of cGMP, which relaxes the penis’ smooth muscle tissue, and allows extra blood to flow into the organ’s spongy central erectile tissues. Erection drugs heighten this smooth muscle relaxation, prod greater blood flow into the penis.

Depending on the medication, erection drugs are taken two to 36 hours before lovemaking, so the woman need not know you’re using a drug. These prescription drugs help men with ED caused by both physical unwellness and stress/anxiety problems. Most studies show that they produce erections in 75 percent of those who use them, with even greater effectiveness among men with only mild or occasional problems. They raise erection only with normal sexual stimulation. No walking around with an embarrassing bulge in your pants that signals you have taken a drug.

3. Step Three

See about possible side effects. For most, but not all manpower, these drugs are quite safe. The only significant side effects are headache (16 percent of users), flushing (10 percent), upset stomach (7 percent), nasal over-crowding (4 percent), and rarely, ocular disturbances (mostly in men with chronic eye conditions such as macular degeneration).

4. Step Four

Research your insurance coverage. Some health insurers cover erection medications, merely many provide only partial insurance coverage, or none at all. However, even without insurance coverage these drugs are quite affordable. The Viagra dose most men take, 50 mg, costs about $10—a modest price to pay for an amorous evening free from erection worries!

5. Step Five

Know that, despite their success, erection drugs also have limitations. They are ineffective in about 25 percent of cases. As badness of ED increases, their effectivity decreases. For example, the drugs work well in many men with the beginnings of diabetic ED, but less well in diabetics with considerable cardiovascular and neurological damage. In men with mild erection balkiness, these drugs may not work in some situations—if a man feels peculiarly stressed, distracted or alienated from the sexual experience.

6. Step Six

Be aware that if you read any nitrate drug such as nitrate medication for heart disease, nitroglycerine for angina, or the party drug, amyl nitrate (“poppers”), you should not use erecting drugs such as Viagra, Vardenafil or Cialis. The combination of Viagra and nitrate drugs can cause a precipitous drop in blood pressure and possibly death. Before this problem was identified, the combination of Viagra and nitrate medication killed more than 500 men.

Yohimbine drugs do not have this problem. The vast majority of men taking nitrate drugs arse use Yohimbine safely. A few deaths have resulted from victimization Yohimbine in conjunction with nitrate drugs, but they are super rare.

7. Step Seven

Take erection drugs according to your doctor’s recommendations; this is highly important. Viagra comes in 25, 50 and 100 mg pills. Side effects are more probable with a higher dose. The same appears to be true of Levitra and Cialis.

8. Step Eight

Be prepared to take more over time. The latest studies propose that some men need to increase their dose over time. University of Alabama researchers tracked 150 men who took Sildenafil citrate regularly for two years or more. During that period tierce increased their dose from 50 to 100 mg.

9. Step Nine

Aid boost effectiveness. For men world Health Organization respond poorly to erection drugs, it may help to combine the medication with the over-the-counter supplement, ArginMax. Researchers at University of California, Davis, worked with men with ED, who did not get much benefit from Viagra. The men took Viagra plus either ArginMax or a placebo. After four weeks, erections improved significantly in 22 per centum of those taking the placebo, but among men using ArginMax, the figure was 60 percent.

10. Step Ten

Know the erection drug’s intended use. Viagra was originally approved for medically diagnosed, persistent ED. The original ads featured elderly Senator Bob Dole talking about how it helped his medical problem.

Only once a drug is approved for any reason, doctors ar free to prescribe it for other, so-called “off label” uses. Today, all erection medications ar most widely used as “erection insurance” for men in their 40s to 60s who have balky erections and don’t want to worry about them. Current ads for Viagra feature young, healthy, professional baseball players saying: “I take batting practice. I take fielding practice. I take Viagra.” Ads for Vardenafil and Cialis are similar, featuring men who appear to be in their 30s or other 40s, and healthy, but precisely a little concerned about hard-on reliability.

11. Step Eleven

Moot a non-drug approach to “erection insurance.” If you’re interested about erection reliability, there ar several approaches to raising an erection and keeping it firm without using drugs. First, don’t smoke. Don’t drink any alcohol for a few hours before sex, and don’t drink more than 2 drinks a day. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Get seven hours of sleep a night. In early words, live a healthy life style and you’re likely to get a penis that behaves the way you want.

12. Step Twelve

Consider a half dose. If you have balky erections—and this is perfectly natural for men o'er 45—then you might decide you want to use erection medication for erection insurance. If so, you may get good results with half the typical dose—25 mg of Viagra instead of the usual 50 mg. Scurvy doses of Levitra and Tadalafil can also be taken.

13. Step Thirteen

Exercise erection drugs correctly and according to your doctor’s recommendations. Sildenafil and Levitra take about an hour to produce erection enhancement and the effect lasts around 2 hours—longer in some men.

Tadalafil also takes about an hour to work, but it lasts for 24 to 36 hours; hence the claim that it’s a “weekend drug.” Take them on Saturday morning, and you’re good to go through most of Sunday.

Many men, it seems, like the longer-lasting drug. When Cialis was approved, the pundits predicted it would not sell well because the Viagra brand was so well established. However, Cialis has proved quite popular.


The main reason not to usance Cialis is that it girdle in the bloodstream longer than Viagra or Levitra, so any side effects are likely to bother you for longer, as well.

14. Step Fourteen

Reckon a natural approach: Yohimbine. For centuries, the bark of the West African yohimbe tree was reputed to restore faltering erections. Scientists scoffed—until the 1980s, when several studies showed that a chemical in the bark, yohimbine, increases blood flow into the penis. More than 10 years before Viagra, the Food and Drug Administration approved Yohimbine as a prescription treatment for erection problems. The herbal extract is available in Aphrodyne and Yocon. If you’d like to try Aphrodyne or Yocon, consult your physician.

Levitra

What is the most important information I should know about Levitra?

• Do not take Levitra if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin (Nitrostat, Nitrolingual, Nitro-Dur, Nitro-Bid, and others), isosorbide dinitrate (Dilatrate-SR, Isordil, Sorbitrate), and isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur, ISMO, Monoket). Nitrates are also found in some recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite (“poppers”). Taking Levitra with a nitrate medicine can cause a serious decrease in blood pressure, leading to fainting, stroke, or heart attack.
• If you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw during sexual activity, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of Levitra.
• Do not take Levitra more than once a day. Allow 24 hours to pass between doses.
• Contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if your erection is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours. A prolonged erection (priapism) can damage the penis.
• A small number of patients have had a sudden loss of eyesight after taking Levitra. This type of vision loss is caused by decreased blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye. It is not clear whether Levitra is the actual cause of such vision loss. Sudden vision loss with Levitra use has occurred most often in people with heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain pre-existing eye problems, and in those who smoke or are over 50 years old.
• Stop using Levitra and get emergency medical help if you have sudden vision loss.

What is Levitra?

• Levitra relaxes muscles and increases blood flow to particular areas of the body.
• Levitra is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence).
• Levitra may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Levitra?

• Do not take Levitra if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin (Nitrostat, Nitrolingual, Nitro-Dur, Nitro-Bid, and others), isosorbide dinitrate (Dilatrate-SR, Isordil, Sorbitrate), and isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur, ISMO, Monoket). Nitrates are also found in some recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite (“poppers”). Taking Levitra with a nitrate medicine can cause a serious decrease in blood pressure, leading to fainting, stroke, or heart attack.
• A small number of patients have had a sudden loss of eyesight after taking Levitra. This type of vision loss is caused by decreased blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye. It is not clear whether Levitra is the actual cause of such vision loss. Sudden vision loss with Levitra use has occurred most often in people with heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain pre-existing eye problems, and in those who smoke or are over 50 years old.
• Before taking Levitra, tell your doctor if you have:

• heart disease or heart rhythm problems;
• a recent history (in the past 6 months) of a heart attack, angina (chest pain), or congestive heart failure;
• a history of stroke or blood clots;
• a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome”;
• high or low blood pressure;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
• a blood cell disorder such as sickle cell anemia, multiple myeloma, or leukemia;
• a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia;
• a stomach ulcer;
• retinitis pigmentosa (an inherited condition of the eye);
• a physical deformity of the penis (such as Peyronie's disease); or
• if you have been told you should not have sexual intercourse for health reasons.

• If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Levitra or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
• FDA pregnancy category B: Although Levitra is not for use in women, this medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Levitra without telling your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
• Although Levitra is not for use in women, it is not known if Levitra passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
• You may need a lower dose of this medication if you are older than 65. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• How should I take Levitra?

How should I take Levitra?

• Take Levitra exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Levitra can be taken with or without food.
• Levitra is usually taken only when needed, up to 60 minutes before sexual activity. The medication can help achieve an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. An erection will not occur just by taking a pill. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• Do not take Levitra more than once a day. Allow 24 hours to pass between doses.
• Contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if your erection is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours. A prolonged erection (priapism) can damage the penis.
• Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Levitra is used as needed, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a Levitra overdose may include back pain, muscle pain, or vision problems.

What should I avoid while taking Levitra?

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Levitra.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Levitra. Discuss the use of grapefruit products with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.

Do not use any other drug to treat impotence, such as alprostadil (Caverject, Muse, Edex) or yohimbine (Yocon, Yodoxin, others), unless your doctor tells you to.

What are the possible side effects of Levitra?

• If you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw during sexual activity, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of Levitra.
• Stop using Levitra and get emergency medical help if you have sudden vision loss.
• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Stop using Levitra and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
• Stop using Levitra and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
• irregular heartbeat;
• swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet;
• shortness of breath;
• vision changes;
• feeling light-headed, fainting; or
• penis erection that is painful or lasts 4 hours or longer.
• Continue taking Levitra and talk with your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:
• warmth or redness in your face, neck, or chest;
• stuffy nose;
• headache;
• upset stomach; or
• back pain.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Levitra?

Before taking Levitra, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following medications

• cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB);
• erythromycin (E-Mycin, Eryc, Ery-Tab) or clarithromycin (Biaxin);
• doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin (Minipress), terazosin (Hytrin);
• HIV medicines such as amprenavir (Agenerase), tipranavir (Aptivus), darunavir (Prezista), efavirenz (Sustiva), nevirapine (Viramune), indinavir (Crixivan), saquinavir (Invirase, Fortovase), lopinavir/ ritonavir (Kaletra), fosamprenavir (Lexiva), ritonavir (Norvir), atazanavir (Reyataz), or nelfinavir (Viracept);
• itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole (Nizoral);
• heart rhythm medicine such as amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone), quinidine(Quinidex, Quinaglute), procainamide (Procan, Pronestyl), or sotalol (Betapace);
• carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenobarbital (Luminal), or phenytoin (Dilantin); or
• rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane).

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to take Levitra, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect Levitra. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

ARGENTINA: Flaws in Acclaimed Sexual Health Plan

The National Consortium for Monitoring Reproductive and Sexual Rights (CONDERS), an umbrella group of 570 organisations and individuals dedicated to reviewing the plan's operation, said that the most frequent failing is the lack of awareness about the programme on the part of the population at large. Monitoring was carried out in 14 of the country's 23 provinces. In some, provincial authorities have added to the input materials provided by the central government, but in others this has not happened.In general, the plan is working better in the provincial capitals than in the hospitals and health centres in outlying areas of the provinces. Among the problems found, there were allegations of the sale of intrauterine devices (IUDs), which the national State distributes to be fitted free, as well as the rationing of free contraceptive pills and condoms, which means beneficiaries have to make more frequent visits to the health centres.In addition, there were problems involving inadequate training of health centre staff, who were blocking people's access to benefits by insisting on unnecessary requirements, and failures to provide counselling on reproductive health, as required by law. The group also found discontinuity in supplies of some birth control methods, and an almost total lack of emergency contraceptives (the "morning-after pill"), which are guaranteed by law. CONDERS considered it a shortcoming that 95 percent of all beneficiaries were women, and that only 21 percent of the total were under 20 years old.These figures suggest that the service has no effective strategy for reaching men, and particularly teenagers of both sexes, who should be the primary targets of the programme, the experts said. "We are concerned that more teenagers are not encouraged to use the service," Dr. Mabel Bianco told IPS. She is the head of the Foundation for Studies and Research on Women (FEIM), one of the organisations on the CONDERS coordinating committee. In Argentina, one out of every six births are to mothers aged 15 to 19, according to the United Nations Population Fund's Report for 2005.Experts interpret this statistic as a sign of a lack of sex education and of access to contraceptive methods. One of the goals of the National Programme of Sexual and Reproductive Health, which began to be implemented in 2003, is to lower the teen pregnancy rate. But CONDERS found that in some provinces, teenagers inquiring about contraception were required to be accompanied by an adult, a condition that is not part of the project. According to the report, in some provinces young women only approach the sexual and reproductive health service after they have become mothers."Teen-friendly services are needed, where they don't have to wait too long, or have to wait alongside pregnant women," Bianco argued. She also said that a basic step towards attracting men to use the plan was removing sexual and reproductive services from the maternal and child health care area, and relocating them as part of primary health care. This change has been carried out at the level of national agencies, but has not yet been adopted in provincial health centres. Men are unlikely to visit obstetrics and gynaecology services, Bianco said.That is why, in her opinion, the change of service area is essential. "It's important to involve men, because contraception is their responsibility too, and the programme also includes prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, as well as uterine and breast cancer and prostate cancer," she pointed out.The CONDERS report has the support of the centre-left administration of President Néstor Kirchner. "The monitoring study was excellent," Valeria Islas, coordinator of the National Programme of Sexual and Reproductive Health at the ministry of Health, told IPS."There are some problems with the implementation of the plan, and we are trying to improve it through better training and better distribution of birth control methods," she said. According to the official, rather than publicity campaigns, what is needed is specific social work to empower potential beneficiaries to "stand up for their rights" in matters of sexual and reproductive health. This approach, through community organisations, "will broaden the strategies" for attracting participants to the plan, Islas said. After years of fierce resistance by conservative sectors linked to the Catholic Church, the programme was put into effect in 2003, after the law of Sexual Health and Responsible Procreation was passed.The law recognises sexual and reproductive rights and guarantees freedom of choice when it comes to birth control methods. The law maintains that it is the State's obligation to inform people about reproductive health, provide contraceptive methods and offer this service to teenagers without requiring them to be accompanied by an adult. Since then the number of participants in the programme has grown 18-fold, and the number of health promoters dedicated to this service has been multiplied by 14. The ministry said that between 2003 and 2005, the total number of women who had an IUD fitted at public institutions rose from 12,200 to nearly 112,000. Women taking oral contraceptives were up from 63,000 to 1.3 million, and those using contraceptive injections also grew in number from 2,400 to nearly 223,000. And in 2003 the programme distributed 31,150 condoms, a number that climbed to 601,000 in 2005. However, CONDERS found that there was resistance among health personnel to requests for contraceptives, and that they were reluctant to recommend IUDs or emergency contraception. Patients were not always treated with the respect they deserved, waiting times for appointments were overly long, and attention was focused on methods of avoiding pregnancy and not on other sexual health issues. In many cases, the services were "centred on women of child-bearing age," and attention for teenagers, older women, men, and sexual and ethnic minorities was "poor or insufficient," the study added.

Viagra may help heart and lung problems

The key to Viagra's success as an erectile dysfunction treatment may also help heart and lung problems caused by high altitudes, a new report says. At high altitudes, blood vessels in some people can constrict too much and create excess, even dangerous, pressure on the heart and lungs. Viagra causes blood vessels to relax and expand and, accordingly, can help counteract the effects of high altitudes.

THE BIO-AVAILABILITY, THE METABOLISM, AND THE DOSAGE FOR VIAGRA

The chemistry of Viagra drug reveals that it is readily absorbed in the human blood stream, with the maximum time observed for concentration ranging anywhere between 30 minutes to 120 minutes from oral dosage. Further information also reveals that Viagra is approximately 40 percent bio available, and has a high protein content of 96 percent. It is thus advised that Viagra intake must be accompanied with a rich calorie diet containing high fat and protein contents. Viagra when taken with a low fat meal has shown a reduced absorption rate.As for the metabolism rate, the half life and excretion rate from the use of Viagra, studies to this respect have found that metabolization activity for Viagra generally takes place through an enzyme known as CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent through another enzyme CYPC229 respectively. Once taken the Viagra breaks down and is excreted in the feces (80 percent), and through the urine approximately 13 percent. As for the known half-life of Viagra, this has been found to be approximately 4 hours.Another important aspect on the intake and use of Viagra is that individuals on medications for either kidney problems, liver problems or even undergoing a dialysis for kidney, the dosage for Viagra should be strictly followed under the specific instructions of the consulting physician, as these conditions are more than likely to be affected from the use of Viagra. The dosage for Viagra, like any drug, must also be seriously taken into account, as the dosage may be different for each individual, which may vary according to the unique health status, as well as the response of the individual's various organs to the intake of Viagra.The generally prescribed dosage for Viagra is 50mg taken about 1 hour prior to anticipated sexual activity. The labeling of the Viagra however states that Viagra can be taken anytime from one half hour to 4 hours prior to sexual activity.

VIAGRA BY PFIZER

Introduction:Viagra is a Pfizer, Inc registered trademark which contains the active ingredient sildenafil citrate. It is available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg doses and is sold through prescription only. It’s taken as an oral tablet and has proven to be one of the most successful drugs of the decade for treating Erectile Dysfunction. It is an FDA approved drug and seen as safe for human consumption.Uses of Viagra:Viagra is actively used for the treatment of male impotence and works by increasing the blood flow to the penis increasing the body’s ability to maintain and achieve an erection during sexual stimulation.Who should not be taking Viagra:Viagra is strictly prohibited to:Men taking nitrates such as nitroglycerinViagra should not be used by women or children.Extreme Side effects of Viagra:Viagra is reported to have caused:Heart AttacksSudden DeathIrregular Heart BeatsStrokeChest PainIncreased Blood PressureHowever, the side effects are not always directly related to the effect of Viagra as they can be caused due to:Sexual ActivityPatients Blood PressurePatients Heart ConditionA combination of the above factorsThat is why it is suggested that the patient take Viagra under a doctor’s prescription.Symptomatic Side Effects:HeadacheFlushingUpset stomachStuffy noseUrinary tract infectionVisual changes such as mild and temporary changes in blue/green colors or increased sensitivity to light.DiarrheaPatients with the following symptoms should use Viagra with care:Age more than 65Liver problemsKidney ProblemsMedications (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin and saquinavir).Such patients are recommended to take a starting dose of 25 mg Viagra.Warning: Circumstances in which the effect of Viagra is not known:Patients that have had heart attacks, strokes or have had an irregular heart rhythm especially within a 6 month period.Patients that have extreme low and high blood pressureProlonged erections: contact your health care provider immediately.Patients with HIV infectionPatients with certain eye disorders.

Cialis

The glycemic index is a way of calculating the rate by which blood glucose levels rise in response to different food types, with pure glucose producing a reading of 100. The glycemic index measures how fast a particular food triggers a spike in blood glucose. Higher-glycemic foods prompt an elevated insulin release because the pancreas is stimulated to metabolize the sudden surge of glucose into the blood.

High Glycemic index carbohydrates can cause major problems in your weight loss program. High Glycemic foods elevate your insulin levels. High insulin levels drive sugars into your cells for fat storage. Your body is programmed to do this so that you can survive a famine if necessary. Unfortunately this programming also makes you fat.

If you eat High Glycemic foods your body releases large amounts of insulin which makes you extremely hungry in only a few hours after it drives all the sugars into your cells. This is precisely what happens to cattle when they are fattened in a feed lot. Insulin makes experimental animals hyperphagic (eat abnormally large amounts of food), and hyperobese. So avoid the high Glycemic foods and stick the suggestion of the low Glycemic list. This will take you out of what I call "feed lot syndrome".

High Glycemic Index Foods

• Foods containing sugar, honey, molasses, & corn syrup.
• Fruits - bananas, watermelon, pineapple, raisins
• Vegetables - potatoes, corn, carrots, beets, turnips, parsnips
• Breads - all white breads, all white flour products, corn breads, whole wheat bread, bagels, muffins, pancakes, waffles, pretzels.
• Grains - White rice, rice products, millet, corn, corn products, processed breakfast cereals.
• Pasta - thick, large pasta shapes
• Cereals - all cereals except those on the Low GI List below
• Snacks - potato chips, corn chips, popcorn, rice cakes, pretzels
• Alcohol - beer, liqueurs, all liquor except red wineSWEETENERS: Corn syrup solids Sucrose (table sugar) Glucose and glucose polymers (maltodextrin-based drinks), Honey, Maltose, High-fructose corn syrup, Barley malt.Low GI Foods

This is what you can have:

• All meats: (Preferably, fish, free range hens with no skin, egg whites)
• Yogurt (Unsweetened no sugars)
• Fruits - all except the High GI fruits above
• Vegetables - all except the High GI vegetables above
• Breads - 100% stone ground bread, whole wheat pita
• Grains - barley, bulgar, kasha, whole grain pasta's, Organic Milk, Organic yogurt.
• Pasta - thin stands, whole wheat pasta, bean threads
• Cereals - Special K, All Bran, Fiber One, regular oatmeal (Oat meal is best choice, decreased cholesterol as well)
• Snacks - nuts, olives, cheese, pita chips, fried pork rinds
• Alcohol - red wine
• Misc - olives, eggs, peanut butter (no sugar)
• FRUITS: All berries, Cherries, Apples, Oranges, Peaches, Apricots, Plums, Grapefruit, Pears
• BEVERAGES:Fresh vegetable juice, Tomato juice, Green tea, Water.
• NUTS AND SEEDS: Almonds, Walnuts, Peanuts, Flaxseeds, Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower seeds.

Does Viagra work for women?

This is a deliberately provocative title. A more accurate heading would be: Does improving a man's erectile dysfunction improve his partner's sexual satisfaction?

The intuitive response is that it should. If a man's problem is reduced, confidence, frequency and performance could be expected to improve, resulting in the couple's greater enjoyment of sex and the woman being more satisfied with this aspect of their relationship.

But sexual function does not work in straight lines. For example, when a man experiences erectile dysfunction (ED), he may be embarrassed or fear ridicule and withdraw, starting a series of events in his partner's mind about self-blame or being unattractive which can reduce her confidence or may arouse suspicions of unfaithfulness. Because the age at which men seek aid for ED is about 58 years and their partners' age about 54 years, these events are likely to coincide with her menopause with its attendant loss of libido and physical symptoms.

For these reasons, research is complex in the field of women's satisfaction from sildenafil (Viagra ® - Pfizer) treatment of men. However, Heiman et al (BJOG 2007;114:437-47) were able to carry out such a study comparing sildenafil with placebo and measuring the woman's perception of outcomes. Unsurprisingly, provided the woman had no dysfunction herself, her satisfaction with their sexual relationship improved significantly if he received sildenafil compared with those whose partners received the placebo. The scores were better for overall satisfaction as well as more detailed questions probing erectile function, orgasmic function, libido, arousal and intercourse satisfaction.

Side effects in the men were infrequent and mild to moderate. Maybe the manufacturers can add another side-effect - increased partner satisfaction?

Mens Health - Absolutely for Men

Warning: Some details might be explicit but are all written for educative and health purposes and might be only suitable for men.

Alright last week there was a big buzz on TV about the all men Oprah Winfrey Show where Dr. Mehmet Oz focussed totally on mens health issues and I couldn't afford to miss it so I watched it and was highly educated afterwards. Therefore I urge every men to read this post where I focus on the key facts about Mens Health to get a hang of themselves and their body to live a healthier and happier life.

1. Is Circumcision good or bad?

First of all circumcision rates has dropped significantly around the world especially in America. Circumcision was primarily done for religious and family beliefs. But it has its own pros and cons and the decision is up to you and your parents.

Pros: Easy to keep the penis clean, avoid infections and decrease the rate of sexually transmitted diseases.

But the bottom line is all about hygiene. If you keep the penis clean on a regular basis or everyday you don't need to worry about circumcision. How to clean it? pull the skin back and wash it thoroughly. But be careful as the pulling of the skin might strangle the penis which is medically called phimosis and you might need to see the doctor immediately.

But uncircumcised people do feel more sexual sensation because the foreskin helps protect the sensitive glands on the penis and does help to maintain the tissues without being scratched off.

2. Erected penis can break!

Yes too much force on the penis may cause the penis tissues to tear off and make a POP sound during the accident. It can be treated with the help of doctors who stitch it back and you can enjoy the same sexual pleasure and have kids after complete cure!

3. Erectile Dysfunction

Men are absolutely scared to admit it but 50% of all men after 40 years of age do experience this. There are many drugs that help cure it but they do have their side effects like experiencing too much erection and should not be used with people without this illness. What the drugs do is control the nitric oxide levels which help men achieve an erection.

But the best medicine of all is raw garlic. Garlic that hasn't been cooked along with some parsley

4. Is a Vasectomy safe?

Vasectomy is a surgical method to give men permanent birth control, meaning removing the organs which produce the sperm. But it doesn't mean you cannot have an ejaculation and should not be confused with castration. Vasectomies are safe and healthy all it does is prevent the sperm from entering the semen.

5. Urination Patterns and Prostrate Cancer

Men reaching their 40s do experience urination difficulties and abnormalities. This happens due to the prostrate gland enlargement around that age which reduces the free flow of urine. The common observations are that men find it difficult to pass urine when they are full and once they have started the flow goes rather shaky than smoothly and even after completion you might still feel a bit of fullness in the bladder. This is quite normalBut what is abnormal is that when the prostrate gland becomes harder which means you are developing prostrate cancer. This is easy to detect and when you experience irregularities during urination check your doctor and remove it asap!

6. Testicular Cancer

We should all realize that our testicles are not on the same level they are always one lower than the other which makes the penis bend to the side opposite to the lower testicle. This is completely normal!But the difference of testicular cancer is that the testicles become larger than normal and develop nodules in them. The testicle area might develop unwanted levels on fluids as well. Therefore you can easily examine them by yourself in a shower especially on warm water.

Testicular cancer MOSTLY affects men between 15 to 35 years old. Thats why we have to start examining the testicles at a very early age and not end up with dangerous incurable complications. A good example of a person survived from testicular cancer is Lance Armstrong.

7. Lack of Sleep

Lack of sleep is mostly due to the intake of caffeine before bedtime or watching TV just before you go to sleep which pumps up your energy back. Therefore do not intake caffeine 4 or 5 hours before going to sleep and reduce watching TV before sleeping. Milks helps a lot in helping you maintain a good sleep and always maintain the same sleeping time.

8. Good diet for athletes

Athletes are constantly on the move and workout for hours per day. Therefore it is very important that they take good healthy supplies of green vegetables and bright colored fruits which helps to maintain a good antioxidant level throughout the body.

9. Farting

Men and women pass equal amounts of gas per day. Its a myth that Men passes more gas. The gas is due to the bacteria in the tummy which help digest some of our food. And the bacteria lets out the bad air which comes out as gas so we do not need to be ashamed of it!

10. Baldness

Baking soda, more sex, watermelons and rubbing lemons on the head DO NOT cure or help prevent baldness! Baldness is due to the two hydrogen molecules that attach to testosterone which is poisons the hair. Weather plays a major role in baldness. When spring time the testosterone levels are low therefore u have less hair loss. And cutting your hair very short does not help your hair grow faster and thicker. It only works for trees!

The cure is to take medications recommended by your doctor. Women usually do not mind baldness as men think they do.

11. Sex

More sex does mean more years added to your life. Sex is a stress reliever and energizer and rejuvenates your body. The average sex per week is usually once. But making it 3 to 4 times can improve your healthiness.

12. Wrinkles

Men are often ashamed of facial but they are actually good for you. They help cleanse the old facial cells and refresh them and helps you reduce the wrinkles you attain over age. Therefore DO NOT feel ashamed about them.

13. Do men experience Menopause?

Yes they do! But it is a totally different event and is very different from the female menopause. Men menopause means the lowering of testosterone levels over age. This means you start to lose the muscles and become less sexually active. But like women not all men go through this. Healthy lifestyle like balanced diet and exercise prevents male menopause.

The final word is men feel that going for regular checkups and discussing certain male illnesses causes shame and loses the machoness of a male. But thats not true. This makes you more unhealthy and makes you face even tougher health challenges. Therefore check your doctor regularly and have a healthy lifestyle.

Hope this is helpful and at least makes one male a healthy one!

There have been big advances in the treatments for impotence.

Psychosexual Therapy for Impotence
It is estimated that up to 90% of the cause of erectile problems have a psychological cause. This can range from relationships difficulties, performance anxiety or deeper more complex causes. An experienced counselor or therapist can help. They look at and work through these difficulties with you offering possible solutions.

Vacuum Pump Treatments for Impotence
A vacuum pump is a plastic cylinder. Vacuum pumps work by placing the device over the penis. Sucking out the air from the tube creates pressure and blood is forced rapidly into the penis (simulating what happens in an erection). A ring is then applied temporarily to the base of the penis to stop the blood draining away too quickly. This sustains the erection.

Medication Treatments for Impotence

• Viagra is one of the best known medications for erectile dysfunction. You need to be sexually stimulated for viagra to be effective. Viagra works within an hour and usually lasts for three to four hours.
• Transurethral therapy (Muse). A small pellet of a medication is put directly into the urethra. The urethra is the tube that runs through the penis and carries urine from the bladder and out through the tips of the penis. The drug is absorbed into the erectile tissue of the penis. It gives an erection within five to ten minutes.
• Cialis. Cialis is taken 30 minutes before sexual activity. Cialis is effective only with sexual stimulation. Cialis is not an aphrodisiac and does not increase sexual desire.
• Levitra. Taken 10 minutes to one hour prior to sexual activity, Levitra can be effective for up to 12 hours. Levitra is not an aphrodisiac. It does not increase sexual desire.
• Uprima. This medication is a pill taken under the tongue. Uprima dissolves within about 15 minutes and is effective for up to two hours. Uprima will not work without sexual stimulation.

Injection Treatments for Impotence

A drug is injected directly into the shaft of the penis when you want to have sex. Although it sounds a bit worrying it is easy to learn. The medication usually works within about 15 minutes

Hormone Treatments for Impotence

Hormonal problems are rarely the cause of impotence. The most common hormone abnormality is reduced levels of the male sex hormone testosterone. Testosterone can be restored to a therapeutic level with hormone replacement therapy. Testosterone replacement therapy should only be taken if you are tested and these tests confirm a deficiency.

Penile Prosthesis Treatments for Impotence

You should not consider a penile prosthesis (implant) until other forms of treatment have been tried. There are two types of penile implant,

• The semi-rigid type penis implant: This penis implant keeps the penis rigid all the time. The penis can be bend it downwards when you're not having sex.
• The hydraulic type penis implant: The penis to stiffens when a pump that is implanted in the scrotum is activated.

Depression in Men

Six million American men experience depression each year. There are many different causes and types of depression. Some types are easier to identify than others; bereavement, marriage breakdown, or being unable to find work are some of the more obvious causes. But, sometimes depression can strike out of the blue.

Differences in depression for men and women

Although there is debate about the exact statistics there does seem to be a difference between rates of depression in men and women. It is believed that depression is more common in women than men no matter where in the world they are, their race, ethnicity or social class. Women are diagnosed and treated more than men but are more willing to report and seek treatment for it. It may also be the case that men express depression in different ways to women.

Different symptoms of depression in men

Although women make more suicide attempts, four times as many men as women die by suicide in the United States.

Types of treatment available for depression

• Counseling, psychotherapy or a support group.
• Psychotherapeutic work can be on an individual or group basis. Group work allows you to see that there are lots of people experiencing the things you are and this can be very therapeutic. You don’t feel so isolated and talking to others is very supportive.
• Antidepressant medication is available specifically to treat depression. If one type of medication is not providing change or relief a different type can be tried until you get a positive therapeutic effect.
• In emergencies, or for some types of depression, ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) may be suggested.

Important message men and depression

If you think you are experiencing depression don’t put up with it. Get some helpIf you are having suicidal thoughts get help quickly. The way you are thinking is being severely affected by your mood. Depression can be very successfully treated or certainly improved. There is light at the end of the tunnel.

Men tend to experience depression in a different way, even though both sexes share the same standard symptoms. Men report feelings of fatigue, frustration, irritability, loss of concentration, sleep disturbance and loss of interest in work and social activities, rather than the emotional feelings of profound sadness, guilt and worthlessness that women acknowledge.

Men, treatment for depression

Women tend to seek treatment. Men often divert themselves into different activities. Some compulsively work, others turn to alcohol and drugs, yet others engage in reckless behavior as a way of coping.

Men at Higher Risk of Suicide