From the Guidelines
Taking Viagra (sildenafil) daily is generally not recommended for most people, but daily use of alternative medications like Cialis (tadalafil) at 2.5mg or 5mg doses may be considered under medical supervision. Viagra is typically prescribed as an "as-needed" medication for erectile dysfunction, taken approximately 30-60 minutes before sexual activity, with a maximum frequency of once per day. The standard dosage ranges from 25mg to 100mg depending on individual response and tolerance. However, daily use of standard Viagra doses can lead to side effects including headaches, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, changes in vision, and potentially dangerous drops in blood pressure, especially if combined with nitrate medications, as reported in the 2018 erectile dysfunction guideline 1.
Some key points to consider when evaluating daily use of erectile dysfunction medications include:
- The FDA-approved oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) available for management of ED in the U.S. include sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, and avanafil, with similar efficacy in the general ED population 1.
- Daily use of 2.5 and 5 mg tadalafil for 12 weeks was well tolerated and significantly improved erectile dysfunction in diabetic men, providing an alternative to on-demand dosing for couples who prefer spontaneous rather than scheduled sexual activity 1.
- The most frequently reported adverse events (AEs) in men using PDE5i are dyspepsia, headache, flushing, back pain, nasal congestion, myalgia, visual disturbance, and dizziness, with average rates similar across medications 1.
If you're considering daily use, consult with your healthcare provider first, as they might recommend alternative daily ED medications like Cialis (tadalafil) at 2.5mg or 5mg doses, which are specifically approved for daily use and may have fewer side effects with continuous use. It's essential to weigh the benefits and risks of daily use and discuss them with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs, as suggested by the 2018 erectile dysfunction guideline 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The recommended dose of sildenafil tablets is 20 mg three times a day (TID). Take sildenafil tablet 3 times a day about 4 to 6 hours apart.
The answer to the question is no, you should not take viagra every day, as the recommended dose is 20 mg three times a day, with doses 4-6 hours apart, which is not the same as taking it every day. 2 2
From the Research
Daily Use of Viagra
- The daily use of Viagra is not explicitly recommended in most studies, but some research suggests that daily treatment with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-i) may be an option for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and documented vascular or prostate disease 3.
- However, the safety and efficacy of daily Viagra use depend on various factors, including the individual's overall health, medical history, and potential interactions with other medications 4, 5.
- It is essential to consult a physician before taking Viagra daily, as they can assess the patient's suitability for this treatment regimen and monitor potential side effects 5, 6.
Safety Considerations
- Patients with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, unstable angina pectoris, or uncontrolled hypertension, should exercise caution when taking Viagra, and daily use may not be recommended 4, 5, 6.
- The co-administration of Viagra with organic nitrates is contraindicated, as it can lead to severe drops in blood pressure 4, 5.
- Common side effects of Viagra include headache, flushing, and dyspepsia, which are usually mild and temporary 5, 7.
Alternative Treatment Options
- Other PDE5-i, such as tadalafil, vardenafil, and avanafil, may be considered as alternative treatment options for ED, and their daily use may be more suitable for certain patients 3, 7.
- The choice of treatment should be based on individual patient needs and medical history, and patients should consult their physician to determine the best course of treatment 3, 7.