Even the real drug is no panacea
　　The approval of Viagra (sildenafil) in 1998 revolutionized the way the public views sexual dysfunction. Many doctors had been unaware of the number of men who had erectile problems until millions of them showed up at offices seeking the new treatment.
　　Viagra's success also spawned a raft of copycat herbal products that promised to work as well or better than the prescription drug but without the need for a doctor's visit. Newspapers and television reports have even promoted such products. The Boston Herald, for example, describes a Chinese herbal formula to treat impotence, while ABC News publicizes a spray-on remedy.

In both cases, the creators claim their products are better than Viagra because they are all natural and therefore have no side effects. Such statements play on a common misconception about alternative medicine. In reality, anything capable of altering the function of the body is also capable of causing side effects, whether it's a drug or herbal remedy.

Consumers should know that herbal products are seldom tested for safety and some products in the United States have been found to be contaminated with toxins or prescription drugs, according to a report from the San Francisco Chronicle. Herbs that have been taken safely in teas for centuries can also become dangerous when manufactured as pills or powders.

Even Viagra itself isn't the miracle drug suggested by patients' testimonials. A wire service story from C-Health explains that Viagra is widely misused and physicians often prescribe the drug without understanding the reasons behind a patient's marital problems
　　
　　From HealthScout