Friday, October 19, 2012

USA - Viagra addict can't quit due to pressure of pleasing partners



US - He was just 20 when his friend offered him the pill during a night abroad.

The man, who only wanted to be known as Daniel, said he and his friends had been drinking heavily, but wanted to take girls back to their room.

Daniel, who is in the music industry, worried that he would not be able to perform to the best of his abilities, and hence decided to accept the pill.

A single pill quickly turned into an addiction. Now Daniel says he has been hooked to Viagra for the last 12 years.

In an interview on This Morning, a daytime programme broadcast on British TV network ITV, he said he now spends more than £1,000 (S$1,965) a year on Viagra.

But he said he has never suffered from erectile dysfunction, Daily Mail reported.

He told the TV programme: "I had never really had problems as such. But when you're under the influence, and with the life I lead... you meet women who will come back with you and expect something."

"You need to fulfil that (their expectations) and now it's sort of become like a normal thing," he told the host.

He used to take a lot more, but now it depends on the situation and how he feels.

Fears of disappointing his partner

If he is intoxicated, he said, he will definitely need it. Fears about pleasing his partners prevent him from quitting.

He said without the pills at hand, he will feel uncomfortable. "Whenever we go away we take a stockpile," he said.

Daniel says he is not the only one. Among his friends, mostly in their twenties and thirties, it is very common to have a reliance on Viagra, he said.

This Morning's medical expert, Dr Robert Hicks, said that it's very common for men to have difficulty getting an erection when they are tired, stressed or under the influence of alcohol.

To counter that, it's best to maintain a healthy lifestyle, reduce stress and get more rest.

However, that's just where Daniel's problems lie. He said that while he has all the intentions in the world to change his lifestyle and stop taking Viagra, it is just what comes with his life and the industry he is in.

In addition, the temptation is never far away as the pill is readily available through online sources, friends and even service stations.

Dangers

Dr Hicks warned that even though Viagra is a safe drug and it can help many men and save marriages, taking any medication without them being prescribed by the doctor comes with risks.

Daniel said that when he takes the pill, he can hear his heartbeat and feel palpitations.

"There's a ringing in my ears too.

"I'm not sure if it comes from the loud music I'm always around or the Viagra, but it always comes after I take the tablets."

Added Dr Hicks: "Hearing loss is a possible side effect, although it is a rare one. The truth is, when used correctly, it is a very safe drug."

The doctor added that Daniel should also be careful of some herbal alternatives he obtains without a doctor's prescription, as they may contain dangerous drugs in them.

He advised Daniel not to use Viagra anymore, as his relationships will be more fulfilling and his health protected.

"Honestly, what really works is leading a healthy lifestyle, have a nice romantic evening, and things are likely to go to plan," he said.

His final piece of advice? If you have a problem, visit the GP before reaching for the pill.



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