Inform your physician about any other medical conditions you have and medications you are taking for them. Your doctor will need to determine if taking Viagra will interfere with any other medications and increase the risk of side effects.

Take Viagra as prescribed. Be sure you understand how frequently you can take it. Do not change the dose of your medication without speaking with a physician. If the Viagra is not helping with erectile dysfunction speak with your doctor who may make adjustments in dosage.

Learn what the common side effects of taking Viagra are. The most common side effects are headache, a flushed face and nausea. Some men note a decrease in side effects after they have been taking Viagra for a while. Other possible side effects include blurred vision and bluish vision.

Consider taking Viagra with food. Although the medication may be taken with or without food, eating before may help reduce nausea. Be aware that meals with a high level of fat slow down the absorption of the medication and it may take longer to work.

Limit the use of alcohol when taking Viagra. Excess drinking may interfere with the medication. It may also increase side effects such as upset stomach and headache.

Be aware of serious side effects. An erection that lasts more than 4 hours needs immediate medical attention. Another rare but serious side effect which may be caused by taking Viagra is a sudden loss of vision. Call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room for evaluation.

Use over the counter medications to treat headaches. Since headaches are usually mild and only last for a short period of time, over the counter pain medications should reduce this common side effect.