There has generally been a strong correlation between erectile dysfunction and old age, yet new studies suggest that Viagra is far from an old man’s drug.

Viagra, which has been on the market since 1998, has exclusively been thought of as a treatment for ED, usually for older men who are struggling with sexual performance. A new article from Healthline however, suggests that a younger generation is taking advantage of the drug’s performance enhancing benefits.

Though erectile dysfunction is rare for a young man, anxiety during sex is not. According to Sara Nasserzadeh, PhD, “When a man enters a relationship or a dating scenario these days, sex is not something that you shy away from, and it might be good or not. Sex is actually a component that could be a deal breaker for many of the relationships these days”. Though Viagra can help with the physical repercussion of such psychological barriers, it won’t fix them long-term. It will help them get an erection, but odds are they’ll still be nervous.

The Huffington Post cited studies that suggest that most young men who take Viagra “have the same ability to get erect as men who don’t take the drugs, they have less confidence in their erections and lower satisfaction with their sex lives”. Additionally, other young men may take the drugs recreationally, before drinking for example, to increase sexual performance even when the barrier isn’t psychological.

So is it safe? Though doctors note Viagra is a very safe drug, taking it recreationally has its risks. But if anxiety or stress is the problem, the blue pill can help and may be worth a shot.

If you have a psychological stressor that you think is having an effect on getting an erection, talk to your doctor or a physician at Kwikmed to see what options are best for you.