Gout is a type of arthritis that forms in some people who have high concentrations of uric acid in the blood. It is characterised by sudden, severe pain that leads to swelling in the joints. In 2016, researchers analysed studies that involved 56,465 patients with gout and 155,636 without gout. The patients had an average age of 49 and the researchers investigated the link between gout and erectile dysfunction (ED).

They found that patients with gout were 1.44 times more likely to have ED compared to those without gout. A possible explanation for the link is that high levels of uric acid in the blood can cause endothelial dysfunction. This can reduce blood flow to the penis which causes ED. For this reason, experts often recommend that men with erection difficulties buy Viagra. With e-commerce convenience, men can now buy sildenafil online.

How sildenafil affects the body
Sildenafil works by blocking an enzyme in the body called PDE5. This enzyme is found in high concentrations in blood vessels in the penis. PDE5 breaks down another substance called cGMP and this reduces the body’s ability to produce nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is essential for normal erectile function as it causes blood vessels to become wider which enhances blood flow. By blocking PDE5, sildenafil increases cGMP levels which strengthen erections.

The unexpected discovery of sildenafil
The discovery of sildenafil as a treatment for ED is one of the most fascinating stories in history. Sildenafil was originally invented to treat conditions like hypertension and angina. The discovery that this medication could improve erectile function was an unexpected event.

In a clinical study that took place in the nineties, 38 men were given 25, 50 or 75mg sildenafil to take three times a day. An interesting side effect that was noticed was an increased likelihood of an erection happening. Five of the 8 men taking 75mg and 3 of the 9 men taking 50mg reported an increased tendency to get erections.

This suggested that although not ideal for treating hypertension and angina, sildenafil may be an excellent treatment for ED. The FDA approved sildenafil in 1998 and it became the first safe, oral treatment for ED. It transformed the way ED is treated today. Men no longer need to rely on local interventions like vacuum pumps, suppositories and surgery.

The patent for Viagra expired in 2013
The fifteen-year patent for Viagra in the UK and parts of Europe came to an end on 21 June 2013. Generic manufacturers then became licensed to produce and sell the active ingredient in Viagra, sildenafil citrate. The generic product is simply called sildenafil. Its availability was good news for many as it meant the price of this medication would decrease considerably.

There are reasons for the lower price. Firstly, generic manufacturers did not invest large sums of money to initially invent Viagra. Secondly, they do not spend substantial amounts on advertising. Therefore, they can afford to sell sildenafil at a much lower cost than the branded version. Competition among generic manufacturers drives the price down even further.

Sildenafil is identical to Viagra in the following ways:

• The active ingredient is sildenafil citrate.
• Both sildenafil and Viagra are effective for more than 80 percent of men.
• They both take 30 to 60 minutes to become entirely effective.
• Both sildenafil and Viagra stay effective for up to six hours.
• They have the same safety and side effects.

Differences between sildenafil and Viagra
Besides the price, the other differences are the name and appearance. The original manufacturer holds sole ownership of the name, Viagra. Therefore, generic versions are named after the active ingredient, sildenafil. Due to trademark laws, generic manufacturers are not permitted to copy the blue diamond shape of Viagra. Therefore, sildenafil may look slightly different in terms of shape, size and colour.

How to use sildenafil for best results
One tablet should be taken 30 minutes to an hour before planned sexual activity. This medication should not be taken on a full stomach as this can affect the absorption rate. The effects last up to six hours allowing sufficient time for spontaneous circumstances. Contrary to what some people may think, sildenafil does not cause and erection to be sustained for six hours. This medicine works in response to sexual stimulation.

Sildenafil can be ordered online
Patients can prevent sexual performance issues and buy sildenafil online. This can be done by visiting online pharmacy leader www.sildenafil4uk.com. Men who would like to buy Viagra now have the option of the more affordable generic version, sildenafil. Discounts become effective on larger quantities and a prescription is not required. Fast and discreet shipping is also available with 24-7 customer support.