Is Nasal Congestion A Concern When Taking Viagra?

Posted on Sat, 14 Feb 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 14 Feb 2015 Answered on

Fri, 13 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : IS NASAL CONGESTION A CONCERN WHEN TAKING VIAGRA; SHOULD I CONSULT A PHYSICIAN. IT DOES GO AWAY SHORTLY AFTER SEX.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (33 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
not considered a serious side effect

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Nasal congestion is one of the more common possible side effects of viagra. Since viagra causes dilation/relaxation of the blood vessels, it is possible that it occurs due to dilation of the blood vessels in the nasal passages resulting in congestion.

It is not considered a serious side effect requiring any intervention.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (35 minutes later)

IS THERE AN OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATION TO HELP PREVENT THIS DURING INTERCOURSE? THANKS SO MUCH BECAUSE IT DOES ALLEVIATE ANY CONCERN

ALWAYS - XXXXXXX :-)

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
there are topical and oral agents

Detailed Answer:
HI

Sorry about the late reply

A nasal decongestant would help. Topical decongestants include normal saline or otrivine.
Otrivine nasal drops can only be used for 3 to 5 days continuously because they cause rebound congestion if used for longer.

Topical normal saline can be used for as long as needed.

There are also oral decongestants such as pseudoephedrine and phenyephrine

Please feel free to ask any thing eles

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar