You Don’t Have To Feel The Burn

Experiencing that uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest after a spicy meal is an all-too-familiar scenario for many, including those in Canada. Heartburn, also known as acid reflux, is a common symptom of dyspepsia — a term for indigestion.

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This condition isn't just a result of dietary choices; it's also a side effect of certain medications. In Canada, Viagra (sildenafil citrate) and other erectile dysfunction treatments like Cialis and Levitra are known to potentially cause indigestion and heartburn.

While this discomfort can be unpleasant, it's not insurmountable. This article provides essential insights into why medications like Viagra can lead to heartburn and indigestion, along with strategies to manage and overcome these side effects.

Why Does Viagra Cause Heartburn?

Viagra and other PDE5 inhibitors like Cialis and Levitra produce effects on smooth muscle tissue in your body. When Viagra starts to take action, muscle tissue and blood vessels in your penis begin to relax, allowing for increased blood flow that, in combination with sexual stimulation, can lead to increased erectile function — that’s the good news. 

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However, the active ingredients in PDE5 inhibitors can also impact the muscles in your esophagus, including the sphincter that acts as the barrier between your stomach and esophagus. When this occurs, the chances of stomach acid splashing up and causing heartburn increase. This is especially true if you’re already prone to heartburn. Viagra can also cause mild nausea and minor stomach discomfort. 

Read more: Viagra Vs. Cialis: What Is There To Know? A Full Review

How to Limit Heartburn

If you’re already among the 25 percent of Canadians who experience indigestion and heartburn, you’ll be all too familiar with antacid medicines to overcome it. 

- Heartburn Specific Medication

Common over-the-counter antacids that neutralize stomach acid, like Tums, Rolaids, and Maalox, are affordable and can offer relief from heartburn and indigestion in a few short minutes. They come in many forms, ranging from chalky and chewy tablets to smooth and cooling liquids. Another class of anti-heartburn medicine works to reduce the amount of acid in your stomach. These “H2-blockers” are sold under familiar brand names like Zantac and Pepcid. 

For more severe cases of heartburn and indigestion, your doctor may prescribe a prescription-strength H2 blocker or a drug from another class of medicines known as proton pump inhibitors. If you’re experiencing persistent heartburn that doesn’t get better with over-the-counter medicine, talk to your doctor. 

- Food and Drink

There are also non-medicinal ways to limit heartburn that can be just as effective. A standard glass or two of water can help alleviate the burning that comes with heartburn. Consider taking Viagra with a glass of water or milk to help the medicine ease more seamlessly into your system. And do the same afterward if you experience indigestion and heartburn. Some foods like bananas, yogurt, and oatmeal can also help to neutralize stomach acid and limit discomfort. 

You should also avoid consuming too much alcohol after taking Viagra, as that can lead to further upsetting of the stomach. Acidic juices like orange and grapefruit, and caffeinated coffee can also upset your stomach, with or without Viagra. 

- Lower Your Dosage

Erectile dysfunction medications are available in a wide range of doses, from 2.5 mg for Cialis all the way to 100mg for Viagra. If you’re taking a higher dose of medication, lowering it might help stave off side effects. You should also never take more than one dose per 24 hours. Tell your doctor if you’re experiencing any of the common side effects of Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra. 

- Other Factors

Since lying down often makes heartburn worse, try to give yourself at least 2-3 hours between a meal and bedtime. If you’re planning on spending a night on the couch, do it in a seated position. Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy body weight might also help you out in the heartburn department. You could also consider eating smaller portions or eliminating foods that commonly make heartburn symptoms worse, like fatty foods, chocolate, onions, and peppermint. 

Read more: 30 Viagra FAQs: Answers To Every Viagra Question

Tips for Managing Indigestion

Managing indigestion caused by Viagra or other erectile dysfunction medications is essential for a comfortable experience. Here are some tips and strategies to help alleviate indigestion symptoms:

1. Dietary Changes: Avoid trigger foods that can exacerbate indigestion, such as fatty and spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, onions, and peppermint. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fibre and consume smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
2. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintain a healthy body weight through regular exercise and adopt stress-reducing techniques like meditation or yoga. Avoid lying down immediately after meals, and try to have a few hours of digestion time before bedtime.
3. Alternative Remedies: Consider natural remedies like ginger, chamomile tea, or licorice root, which can help soothe the digestive system. Some individuals find relief by using over-the-counter digestive aids like ginger candies or digestive enzymes.
4. Hydration: Stay adequately hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. This can help dilute stomach acid and ease indigestion symptoms.
5. Talk to Your Doctor: If indigestion persists or becomes severe, consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting the dosage of your medication or exploring alternative treatment options for erectile dysfunction.

Remember, these tips may vary in effectiveness from person to person. It's important to find what works best for you through trial and error while seeking guidance from a healthcare professional.

Alternative Medications for Erectile Dysfunction

If you experience heartburn or indigestion as a side effect of Viagra or other erectile dysfunction medications, there are alternative medications you can discuss with your healthcare provider. These medications may have a lower risk of causing digestive discomfort. Some options include:

1. Alprostadil: Available as injections, pellets, or a topical cream, alprostadil helps increase blood flow to the penis, aiding in achieving and maintaining an erection.
2. Vacuum Erection Devices (VED): These devices use a vacuum to draw blood into the penis, creating an erection. VEDs are non-invasive and can be a suitable option for individuals seeking alternatives to medication.
3. Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): In cases where low testosterone levels contribute to erectile dysfunction, TRT may be recommended. This therapy aims to restore testosterone levels and improve sexual function.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Sometimes, addressing underlying lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and reducing alcohol consumption can improve erectile function without the need for medication.

Discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider to determine which option is most suitable for your specific needs and medical history.

Talk To Your Doctor

Heartburn and other mild side effects shouldn’t prevent men from seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). If a doctor has decided ED medications like Viagra are appropriate, make sure to tell them about any side effects you’re currently experiencing. Adjusting the dosage changes to diet and lifestyle, or looking at medicinal options for addressing side effects might make a difference. There are plenty of treatment options available to improve erectile function, and little indigestion doesn’t have to stand in your way. 

FAQs and Patient Experiences

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about heartburn and indigestion caused by erectile dysfunction medications: