The Biochemical Miracle and Risks of Aphrodisiacs: From the Mechanism of Viagra, the Future Drug Vasomax, to Hormone-Assisted Therapy

How does Viagra work? Viagra only promotes blood circulation and does not produce sexual desire. Looking at the history of Viagra's invention reveals that for Profiter Pharmaceuticals, the company that first developed it, Viagra was nothing short of a slap in the face. Medical researchers initially attempted to develop a drug that improved blood flow to the heart. The first test subjects didn't feel any heat in their hearts, but experienced a burning sensation in their groin. It wasn't until researchers further studied this "side effect" that the era of Viagra began. Its effect on penile erection comes from a small molecule-nitric oxide-which expands the small muscle cells in the penis, thereby improving blood flow to the corpora cavernosa. Because of the increased blood flow into the corpora cavernosa and the closure of the venous return valve, the erection is effective and stable. Scientifically speaking, Viagra is an enzyme blocker that inhibits phosphodiesterase molecules present in the penis. This enzyme destroys another chemical substance (cyclic guanosine monophosphate), which is also present in the penis and has a positive effect on erection. Viagra protects cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, an enzyme that disrupts erections, allowing it to remain in the penis for a longer period and fully exert its erectile function. This demonstrates that nitric oxide plays a mediating role in penile erection and the chemical reactions involved. Prescribed Viagra doses range from 25 to 100 mg, taken in tablet form one hour before intercourse. Each user should find the optimal dosage for best results and minimal side effects. If the right dosage is found, taking it 10 times consecutively, at least 7 times, will achieve the desired erectile effect. The drug's effects last from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Taking it after meals will delay the onset of action. This aphrodisiac should only be taken once daily. Since its introduction, Viagra has achieved incredible success worldwide: 6 million men worldwide have taken it. More than 45 scientific research projects have conducted rigorous surveys of over 6,500 men. Common side effects include headache, facial flushing, visual disturbances, and dizziness. These symptoms are mostly harmless and temporary. The most common is headache, occurring in 15%–30% of cases, depending on the dosage. A thorough medical examination is necessary before taking this medication because if the user is taking other medications, such as nitro drugs, concurrently with Viagra, it can lead to repeated nitric oxide intake. This can cause life-threatening circulatory problems and even death. These nitro drugs (such as nitro sprays or nitro patches) should only be used for angina pectoris within the scope of coronary artery disease. In some cases, a thorough examination of the cardiovascular system is required before taking the medication, as sexual activity is also a strain on the body. The pharmaceutical industry is increasingly striving to find the perfect aphrodisiac for men. In the United States, scientists are developing a more promising drug. Research reports on the efficacy of the new aphrodisiac Vasomax have been submitted. It is hoped that this drug (the bioactive substance phentolamine), effective in 25%–40% of men with erectile dysfunction, will be approved for sale in the near future. Similar to Viagra, this drug can also promote penile engorgement. Furthermore, it can be used concurrently with nitro drugs, and its ideal effect begins to appear 20-30 minutes after administration. Another drug that may be used in the future to treat erectile dysfunction is apomorphine (trademarked as Upura). Apomorphine is a messenger substance that acts directly on the brain, sending pulse signals from there to induce penile erection. Therefore, its working principle differs from Viagra, which only promotes penile engorgement. This drug must be taken very slowly, so it is placed under the tongue. Its advantages are that it has no side effects on the heart and circulatory system and is suitable for severe erectile dysfunction. Of course, hormones also play a role in treating erectile dysfunction. Testosterone not only increases libido but can also be used to treat erectile dysfunction, but only if the level of testosterone in the blood is lower than normal. Another danger is its threat to the prostate: in men with (or yet to be diagnosed) prostate cancer, testosterone can accelerate the cancer's progression. If testosterone treatment is being used, the prostate should be checked regularly. Currently, hormone replacement therapy with testosterone is widely accepted because once testosterone levels return to normal, it can not only enhance sexual function but also strengthen muscles and increase feelings of well-being.