What Happens If You Take 150 MG of Viagra?

Viagra, one of the most popular medications used to treat erectile dysfunction, has improved the lives of millions of men across the world. It is effective, well-tolerated, and generally safe. However, to get the best out of its use, you need to understand its mechanism of action, dosage guidelines, and possible side effects.

You will learn all about that in this article. Let’s dive in.

What Is Viagra?

Viagra is an effective medication for erectile dysfunction (ED). It contains an active ingredient called sildenafil citrate, which belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.

Since the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it for use in 1998, it has grown in popularity, becoming one of the most commonly prescribed treatment options for ED [1]. Viagra is available in generic versions and is so popular because of several reasons, including its high level of effectiveness, low risk of adverse effects, and relatively fast onset of action. This is not to mention that it is well-tolerated, easy to use, and widely accessible.

Upon administration, the effects of the drug typically kick in within 30–60 minutes and can last for up to 4 hours. However, both its onset of action and duration of effects can vary from individual to individual based on weight, genetics, food consumed, and underlying medical conditions, among others [2].

At this point, it is worth noting that although it is safe and well-tolerated, it has the potential to cause side effects, like all other medications. It is vital to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before starting treatment with it.

How Does Viagra Work?

When a man experiences sexual arousal, the brain sends signals that cause muscles lining the walls of arteries that carry blood to the penis to relax through a series of complex chemical processes. This relaxation of the muscles allows a high volume of blood to flow into the penis, giving rise to an erection.

In men with ED, a disruption in the chemical process described above typically affects blood flow to the penis, which in turn impairs erection. Viagra works by rectifying the chemical processes, allowing its user to achieve firm and long-lasting erections for improved sexual performance. It is worth noting that the administered dosage and usage can affect the drug’s mechanism of action. This is why it is important to use the drug exactly as prescribed [3].

Is It Safe to Take 150 mg of Viagra?

Have you ever wondered what happens if you take 150 mg of Viagra? Many think that it will result in higher sexual performance, while others believe that it is dangerous and may cause serious side effects or even death.

Well, here’s what you need to know. Taking higher doses of medications can indeed increase the risks of adverse effects. This is why doctors or healthcare professionals typically recommend starting with the lowest available dose (25 mg) and making adjustments based on tolerability [4]. However, this is not always the case. Some people have high sensitivity to drugs, meaning that they only require low doses to achieve the intended effect. If you plan on taking Viagra for the first time and are wondering, “Can I take the 150 mg dose?” note that starting with the lowest available dose is always a good way to go.

In a nutshell, the result of taking Viagra 150 mg depends on your level of sensitivity or tolerance to it. If you have a high tolerance, then taking this dose will be completely safe for you. However, if you experience recurring common or serious adverse effects, then the 150 mg may not be safe for you. Note that only a doctor can determine the appropriate dosage for you based on your health factors and medical history. Consult with them before starting treatment with the medication.

Dosage Guideline and Side Effects for Viagra Pills

The standard starting dosage of Viagra is 50 mg, taken about 1 hour before engaging in sexual activity. But doctors typically recommended the lowest dose of 25 mg to first-time users. The dose may then be adjusted to 50 mg and then 100 mg, based on the individual’s response to it. Some men find the 150 mg more effective and safe. However, it is worth noting that doctors hardly recommend such a high dose of the pills to patients, except when treating conditions it is not approved by the FDA to treat. This is generally regarded as off-label use [5].

Viagra is to be swallowed whole with a substantial amount of water; it should not be crushed and snorted or dissolved in water and drunk. It can be administered with or without food, but it is essential to avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, foods rich in fat, and certain medications such as nitrates, blood thinners, etc., as they can interfere with the drug’s absorption or increase the risks of adverse effects [6].

As mentioned earlier, Viagra has the potential to cause adverse effects, like any medication, but not everyone experiences them. The common ones include [7]:

• runny nose;
• upset stomach;
• dizziness;
• nausea;
• headache.

The above adverse effects are typically mild and transient. It is important to seek medical help if they persist or bother. Additionally, Viagra can cause more serious negative effects, such as palpitations, ringing in one or both ears, priapism, etc., which can hurt users if left untreated. Fortunately, they are rare and mostly caused by taking an overdose or misusing the drug in other ways. Be sure to seek urgent medical attention if you notice any of them.

To ensure the safe and effective use of Viagra, it is crucial to strictly adhere to the dosage guidelines as written in your doctor’s prescription.

Conclusion

Viagra is one of the best treatment options for ED, capable of helping men achieve firm and long-lasting erections and ultimately improving their overall well-being. When used correctly and under the guidance of a doctor or healthcare professional, it is safe and effective.

To answer the question, “Can I take the 150 mg Viagra tablet?” most people ask, it is worth noting that it may not be a great idea, especially if you are taking the medication for the first time. It is always best to start at the lowest dose and make adjustments based on tolerability. The 150 mg dose may be safe for individuals with a high tolerance, i.e., people who find the 50 mg and 100 mg strengths ineffective, but that is for a healthcare professional to decide based on the individual’s health factors and medical history.

It is important to avoid self-medicating and seek advice from a doctor before even starting treatment with Viagra or adjusting the dosage. By strictly adhering to the prescription for use and being aware of the potential side effects, you can enjoy the benefits of this drug without unnecessary risks.

References:

1. Sildenafil. Retrieved: July 31, 2023. Wikipedia.org.
2. How Long Does Viagra Last? By Tim Jewell. Medically reviewed by Joseph Brito III, MD. Retrieved: July 31, 2023. Healthline.com.
3. What Does Viagra Do? Retrieved: July 31, 2023. Boots.com.
4. Is Bigger Better? An Argument for Very Low Starting Doses. By James P. McCormack, PharmD, G. Michael Allan, MD, and Adil S. Virani, PharmD. Retrieved: July 31, 2023. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
5. Viagra and Dosage: Forms, Strengths, How to Take, and More. By Alex Brewer, PharmD, MBA. Medically reviewed by Patricia Weiser, PharmD. Retrieved: July 31, 2023. Medicalnewstoday.com.
6. 6 Sildenafil (Viagra) Interactions You Should Know About. By Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP. Medically reviewed by Christina Aungst, PharmD. Retrieved: July 31, 2023. Goodrx.com.
7. Viagra Side Effects and Other Impacts on the Body. Written by Ann Pietrangelo. Medically reviewed by Jennie Olopaade, PharmD, RPH. Retrieved: July 31, 2023. Healthline.com.