What To Do If Viagra or Sildenafil is Giving You a Headache

Viagra headaches are caused by the way the medication works. The active ingredient, Sildenafil, helps men with erectile dysfunction by widening blood vessels to improve blood flow.

However, this effect is not limited to the penis, it also affects blood vessels in the head, which can change pressure and trigger pain or a throbbing sensation.

Some people are more sensitive to Viagra-related headaches due to factors such as blood pressure, hydration levels, or interactions with other medicines.

These headaches usually occur a few hours after taking Viagra, when the medication’s effects are at their peak.

Headaches from Viagra are usually mild and short-lived, but they can still be uncomfortable.  

Here are a few simple ways to help ease the pain once a Sildenafil headache has set in and manage the symptoms if they occur:  

Mild Viagra headaches usually fade within one to three hours and are rarely serious. In some cases, the headache may linger while the medication is still in your system, even after its effects on erections have worn off.

Once most of the Viagra has left your body, the headache typically resolves. It is uncommon to experience a Viagra-related headache the next day.

Many men find that their bodies adjust over time; as they continue using Viagra, headaches often become less frequent and less intense.

Yes, it is generally safe to take paracetamol if you develop a headache after using Viagra (Sildenafil).

There are no known interactions between the two medicines, so you can take the usual recommended dose to help relieve discomfort.

If you find that headaches occur frequently after taking Viagra, speak to your pharmacist or doctor. They can review your dosage of Sildenafil, or advise on timing adjustments to help reduce side effects, rather than relying on pain relief each time you use the medication.

Most Viagra headaches are not a cause for concern and often become less frequent as your body adjusts to the medication, usually within the first week of use.

Like other erectile dysfunction treatments, Viagra can trigger headaches, particularly at higher doses, when dehydrated, after drinking alcohol, or in people prone to migraines or cluster headaches.

To reduce your risk, use the lowest effective dose, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol around the time of use, and never combine Viagra with nitrate medications.

You should contact a healthcare professional immediately if:

• Headaches are severe or persistent
• The headache is accompanied by symptoms such as sudden speech, movement, or balance changes, or feels like “the worst headache of your life”
• You experience a prolonged or painful erection lasting more than 4 hours
• You notice sudden changes in vision or hearing