Introduction
Experimenting with drugs might seem like a thing of the past once you reach 28. However, being in my late twenties, the idea of trying Viagra feels out of place for someone my age. These thick, blue tablets are often associated with older individuals and are not typically found in party environments. Yet, I find myself holding one in my hand, contemplating whether or not to give it a try. With a deep breath, I pass another pill to my boyfriend, who nervously says, “Cheers.” We both take the plunge and swallow the blue diamonds.
A Surprising Recommendation
The concept of using Viagra for recreational purposes was first introduced to me by my boyfriend’s housemate, Dominic. One morning, he entered the kitchen, radiating confidence and excitement. He asked us, “What’s the most times you’ve had sex in one night? Double that number because that’s what a night on Viagra feels like. You have to try it.” Although I laughed at the suggestion, I wasn’t entirely surprised. My friends and I are known for our adventurous and indulgent lifestyles. Despite our professional careers as doctors, journalists, consultants, and lawyers, we still prioritize pleasure and exploration during our free time.
Viagra in Recreation
To my surprise, many of my friends have dabbled with Viagra, either on its own or in combination with other recreational substances. For those accustomed to using illicit drugs on weekends, the idea of trying something medically approved doesn’t seem daunting at all. Nevertheless, they do have a few cautionary tales to share. One friend complains that Viagra affects his sleep quality, while another mentions experiencing a blue haze in his vision. Rahul, a friend, amusingly recounts a time when Viagra didn’t lead to any successful encounters and instead resulted in an awkward situation the morning after. Despite these anecdotes, the fact that Viagra is readily available suggests a significant market for recreational usage.
Understanding Viagra
Initially developed as a heart medication, Viagra’s journey took a turn when clinical trials revealed its limited effectiveness compared to more affordable alternatives already on the market. Interestingly, male patients participating in the trial refused to stop taking the drug, leading to the discovery of Viagra’s famous side effect. Dr. Graham Jackson, a consultant cardiologist who was part of the original research team, explains that there are currently three drugs available: Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra. While Levitra and Viagra take effect within an hour and last around six hours, Cialis takes two hours to work and can last up to 48 hours.
The Recreational Circus
Dr. Jackson acknowledges the prevalent recreational use of these drugs, stating, “You can now get Viagra from any cab driver. Although nothing significant would happen if someone without erectile dysfunction took Viagra, they might experience a psychological placebo effect. However, taking it in conjunction with other substances could yield different results. Drugs like cocaine, marijuana, ecstasy, alcohol, nicotine, and crystal meth can all lead to erectile problems, and Viagra can counteract these effects by dilating blood vessels and allowing blood flow to the penis.”
The Mystery of Viagra and Women
The effects of Viagra on women remain largely unknown, and Dr. Jackson believes that clinical evidence will never be fully proven. A few years ago, Pfizer conducted a study comparing Viagra to a placebo in women with sexual dysfunction, but the study had to be halted when 85% of the women responded positively to the placebo. It seems that the mere idea of Viagra can be sexually arousing for some women.
Unintended Benefits Amidst the Risks
Dr. Jackson suggests that there is no documented evidence of major catastrophes resulting from recreational use of these drugs. Surprisingly, he even mentions that Viagra may have an unexpected advantage when it comes to certain illegal substances. For instance, cocaine is known to cause the shutdown of coronary arteries and potentially trigger heart attacks. In a strange twist, Viagra’s vasodilating properties may help counteract this dangerous effect. However, the dangers of procuring Viagra online or from unauthorized sources are significant. Men without cardiac symptoms but with erectile dysfunction should consult a doctor before seeking medication. For young individuals without underlying health issues, taking Viagra recreationally should not pose a significant risk.
Venturing into the Viagra World
With this newfound knowledge, I decide to give Viagra a try. While I’ve heard that it can now be purchased over the counter at Boots, the prospect of explaining myself to a pharmacist seems unappealing. Instead, I explore my junk mailbox, brimming with offers. Surprisingly, all the emails lead me to a single Canadian online pharmacy, advertising Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis for at least $7 per tablet. Dr. Jackson had warned against purchasing Viagra in this manner, as the content and dosages of these pills can never be guaranteed.
Trusting a Friend
Fortunately, my friend Andy, a regular Viagra user, agrees to provide me with some tablets from a trusted source. He hands me a bundle of clingfilm containing at least 15 tablets and charges me a meager sum. With a cheeky wink, he sends me on my way.
The Big Night
When the anticipated night arrives, neither my boyfriend nor I are completely sure about trying Viagra. He has always performed well, regardless of the substances he has consumed, and worries about the additional effects. I, too, have concerns. What if it has no effect on me but turns him into an overeager lover for the entire night? We sit awkwardly on the sofa, waiting for the pills to kick in. After about 45 minutes, I notice a slight flush on my cheeks. My boyfriend’s face also appears a bit redder. Dr. Jackson had mentioned this as a possible side effect, although I can’t help but wonder if it’s simply due to the higher temperature in my apartment. My boyfriend claims not to feel any different.
A Surprising Discovery
However, after 15 minutes, I find myself feeling flushed and surprisingly relaxed. There’s a comforting buzz coursing through me, despite my racing heart. My boyfriend looks at me and says, “I think it works. See what you think.” The evidence before me suggests that it does indeed work, at least for him. I begin to sense a subtle change within myself as well, perhaps a heightened sensitivity. It’s difficult to say for certain. After three hours of uncertainty, we eventually drift off into a deep sleep, utterly exhausted.
Reflecting on the Experience
With the clarity of the morning, I ponder whether I will try Viagra again. It certainly isn’t an aphrodisiac, nor does it increase arousal. Rather, it redistributes blood flow within the body, which, in my boyfriend’s case, had a particularly pleasurable effect. Dr. Jackson may not be entirely correct in claiming that Viagra has no impact on healthy young men, as my boyfriend experienced heightened enthusiasm. However, the difference is primarily mechanical rather than emotional.
The Power of Perception
Ultimately, the allure of Viagra lies in the idea itself. The concept alone can create sexual excitement, even in the presence of a placebo. It’s this idea that leads my friends to believe they can become porn stars for a night. However, it’s crucial to recognize that Viagra is, in fact, a heart medication that failed and ended up with an unexpected side effect. It was designed for individuals with specific syndromes or conditions. Unfortunately, for me, that just isn’t enticing enough to consider using it again. However, my boyfriend suggests never saying “never.”
