Most men with erectile dysfunction (ED) who are advised to take Viagra do not know how much they should be taking to use the little blue pill safely and effectively.

Healthline, a medical information website, has come up with a few tips for first-time Viagra users.

“For help with erections, the recommended dose for adults 18 to 64 years old is 50 milligrams (mg),” according to Healthline. “Adults older than 65 often start with the lower dose, 25 mg.”

It says, “Ideally, take Viagra an hour before sexual activity, but it can be taken 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity, too.”

The medical information website advises men to take Viagra with a lighter meal rather than a heavy, fatty meal. “Eating a large or high-fat meal before you take Viagra can delay absorption, meaning it’ll take longer to take effect,” it adds.

Healthline advises first-time users to give themselves and the drug some time to work. “Don’t pop the pill and expect to get down to business right away,” it says. “Plan on giving yourself some time for it to work. You can take it up to 4 hours before having sex, so no need to rush or stress about it.”

More importantly, the website advises avoiding alcohol before or after taking Viagra. It explains that drinking alcohol after taking Viagra “could put a major damper on your rendezvous.”

“Moderate to heavy drinking can make it harder for you to get an erection,” Healthline suggests. “Also, Viagra can lower blood pressure. Combining it with alcohol can increase this effect. If your blood pressure drops, symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, and headache could also hinder your hard-on and mood.”

Last but not the least, Healthline advises getting in the mood after taking the small blue pill. Remember, the drug does not work if you are not sexually aroused. “If you’re going to take it before then, you’ll need to help it along by getting in the mood,” the website says. “Need a little help? Enjoy anything that you find sexually stimulating — as long as it’s legal and between consenting adults, of course.”

Typically, Viagra starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes and can last up to 4 hours. In some users, the drug begins to wear off within 2 or 3 hours, while others have reported the efficacy up to 5 hours.

If you are taking Viagra for your ED issue, make sure you take it just once in any 24-hour period. Taking more than once in 24 hours could increase the risk of serious side effects.

Never use Viagra recreationally. It is only meant for men who are diagnosed with ED. Check with your doctor for the safest and most effective Viagra dose based on your medical history.  It is imperative to take Viagra exactly as advised by your doctor. For more information on how much Viagra you should take and how to use it efficiently, visit Healthline.