Q: I am 51, and I have a problem with keeping an erection for more than 10 minutes. I think it is a blood circulation problem, because my feet always feel cold and my testicles feel cool to the touch. If only I could stay erect for another 10 minutes I would be satisfied. My doctor gave me a prescription for Viagra. He says I don’t need to use the whole pill, but to cut it in half and see how that works. What would it do if I cut it in quarters? Would that help me out for another 10 minutes? I don’t want to take the whole pill because I’m afraid of side effects.
A: At 51, a 10-minute erection is entirely normal — studies show that the average man ejaculates within about 90 seconds of penetration. The ability to maintain an erection depends on many factors, including arousal, stress, fatigue, and circulation, but your description doesn’t suggest a vascular problem. Most men with serious circulation issues, such as atherosclerosis, cannot achieve an erection at all. Cold feet or genitals are not typical signs of vascular disease; circulation problems usually appear first as pain or cramping in the legs while walking.
How Viagra Works
Viagra (sildenafil) is a phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitor that relaxes smooth muscle in penile arteries, improving blood flow and helping achieve a stronger erection in response to sexual stimulation. Standard doses are 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. Many physicians prescribe 100 mg tablets and advise cutting them in half to save cost, since the price is often the same regardless of dose. Lower doses (such as 25 mg) are still effective for some men, but individual response varies. For a detailed look at the science and side effects, see the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) clinical overview of sildenafil.
Choosing the Right Dose
If your doctor suggested taking half a tablet, that’s a standard starting point. Cutting Viagra into quarters isn’t dangerous, but it may reduce efficacy. Tablets are designed for precise dosing, so inconsistent fragments could cause unpredictable results. Discuss this with your doctor before changing the dose. If you continue to worry about side effects, review Side Effects of Viagra for information on what’s common and what’s not.
Other Factors That Affect Erections
Besides medication, erection quality depends on lifestyle and overall health. Cardiovascular fitness, mental well-being, and hormone balance all play a role. If you smoke or drink frequently, even “just a little” alcohol can reduce firmness. Gentle aerobic activity can improve blood flow; Exercise Helps You Beat Depression also explains how regular workouts increase nitric oxide levels and circulation, enhancing sexual performance naturally.
Additional Aids and When to Seek Advice
If half a tablet still doesn’t give satisfactory results, your doctor might explore other PDE5 inhibitors or supportive options like a vacuum pump for erection problems. These devices help draw blood into the penis mechanically and are safe, medication-free alternatives. If your symptoms change, or if erections become painful or irregularly curved, consult a urologist to rule out Peyronie’s disease or other underlying conditions.
Bottom Line
Viagra is effective and safe for most men when taken under medical supervision. Start with your doctor’s recommended dose, monitor how your body responds, and address any anxiety or lifestyle factors that may limit erection quality. With balanced use and realistic expectations, even “just a little Viagra” can help you maintain satisfying sexual health.