Viagra Drug Class: Is Sildenafil A Controlled Substance?

Viagra is the brand name for sildenafil citrate, a prescription medication originally developed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It has been widely available since the late 1990s and belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. While Viagra isn’t classified as a controlled substance, it still requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Along with similar medications like Cialis (tadalafil) and Levitra (vardenafil), Viagra is generally safe and effective when used as prescribed by a doctor. However, using these medications recreationally or without medical supervision can be risky and potentially dangerous. These drugs can interact with other medications and cause serious side effects, especially in people with certain heart conditions or those taking blood pressure medications.

Why Viagra Is Not Currently A Controlled Substance

Controlled substances are drugs regulated by the federal government because they have the potential to cause addiction, physical dependence, or abuse. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies these medications into different schedules based on their medical usefulness and risk for dependency.

Viagra remains uncontrolled because it doesn’t produce the typical effects associated with addictive substances. The medication doesn’t cause a “high” or euphoric feeling, and people don’t develop physical withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it. Unlike opioids, stimulants, or other controlled drugs, sildenafil works specifically on blood vessels and doesn’t affect the brain’s reward pathways that lead to addiction.

There’s growing concern about recreational misuse of erectile dysfunction medications. Some people use Viagra without a prescription or combine it with other substances, which can be dangerous. While this misuse doesn’t typically lead to addiction in the traditional sense, it has prompted some healthcare professionals to call for stricter regulations.

What Drug Class Is Viagra?

Viagra belongs to a class of drugs referred to as phosphodiesterase-5, or phosphodiesterase type 5 PDE5 inhibitors. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, which helps to produce and maintain an erection. Typically, Viagra comes in tablet form in three strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.

Arguments In Favor Of Classifying Viagra As A Controlled Substance

While people cannot become addicted to Viagra, there are several dangerous side effects and links to risky sexual behavior that have people rethinking whether Viagra should be a controlled substance. Men who use erectile dysfunction drugs recreationally engage in unprotected sex up to six times more often than people who don’t. This behavior leads to increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS.

Researchers have also found that Viagra is increasingly used along with drugs such as methamphetamine to create a more intense sexual experience.

How Viagra Makes You Feel

When someone takes Viagra, they will not feel any psychoactive effects. The active ingredient in Viagra will only work to get and maintain an erection. People who mix prescription or nonprescription Viagra with other drugs such as nitroglycerin or other nitrates will experience the effects of both drugs, with potentially serious health risks.

Why People Take Viagra Without A Prescription

Many men take Viagra recreationally out of curiosity or to enhance their sexual performance, even when they don’t have erectile dysfunction. This trend has grown across all age groups, with some men thinking the medication will make sex better or last longer.

Some people also use Viagra to counteract the sexual side effects of other substances. Alcohol, cocaine, antidepressants, and certain recreational drugs can make it difficult to get or maintain an erection. Rather than avoiding these substances or addressing the underlying issue, Viagra is used as a quick fix. This can be dangerous since mixing Viagra with alcohol or illegal drugs can cause drops in blood pressure and other life-threatening complications.

Is Viagra Dangerous?

Viagra is safe when used as a treatment of erectile dysfunction under the care of a healthcare provider. When used recreationally, people can experience several serious side effects. Recreational use means using it when it’s not needed (i.e. by someone who does not have sexual dysfunction issues) or using it in ways other than as prescribed, such as by snorting Viagra or through rectal use (plugging).

Risks and side effects of Viagra misuse may include:

• pulmonary arterial hypertension
• priapism (an erection that won’t go away)
• angina and other heart problems
• hearing loss
• engaging in unsafe sexual activity
• low blood pressure
• heart attack
• chest pain
• blurred vision
• high blood pressure

These side effects may be exacerbated if people use Viagra with alkyl nitrites like poppers, which expand blood vessels and may cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Additionally, people with a history of heart disease should consult their doctor before attempting to use Viagra or other supplements for the treatment of ED.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff