Can Viagra reverse effect of Effexor?

Q. I have heard that premature ejaculation is a common problem. I suffer just the opposite: delayed ejaculation. It can take me 20 or 30 minutes, and this is far too long for my wife. This has become an issue since I started taking Effexor for depression. I suspect that the drug is responsible, but I don't want to give it up because it works well to improve my mood. Would Viagra or one of the other pills for erections overcome this problem?
A. Your suspicion is well-founded. Anti-depressants like Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft and Effexor can delay orgasm for both men and women. One small study demonstrated that Viagra could reduce ejaculatory delay in some men (Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, June 2003). In general, however, drugs like Viagra, Levitra or Cialis work for erectile dysfunction but do not improve libido or hasten climax.
Q. What can people do who are allergic to aspirin and think they are having a heart attack?
A. Always call 911 immediately if you think you are having a heart attack. The ambulance may carry a clot-busting drug that would be even more effective than aspirin.
Prior skin reactions (itchy hives), breathing difficulties or anaphylactic shock are the kinds of allergic reactions that would preclude use of aspirin even in an emergency. Stomach upset is not. An allergist can verify whether you are truly allergic. Desensitization is possible for those who must take aspirin.
Q. Are bipolar and bisexual the same thing? The "bi" confuses me.
A. "Bi" just means two. The term "bisexual" refers to people who are attracted to both men and women. Bipolar disorder has nothing to do with sexual preference. It used to be called manic depression and refers to extreme mood swings, from euphoria to despondency.
XIn their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of King Features Syndicate, 888 Seventh Ave., New York, N.Y. 10019, or e-mail them at pharmacy@mindspring.com or via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org.
& copy; 2004 King Features Syndicate, Inc.