It's important to take sildenafil as advised by a doctor or pharmacist to ensure both safety and effectiveness. Following the prescribed regimen helps maximize its benefits while minimizing potential side effects.
Dosage and strength for erectile dysfunction
Sildenafil tablets for erectile dysfunction come in various strengths, specifically designed to cater to different needs, with available doses ranging from 25mg to 100mg.
The typical starting dose is often 50mg, taken when needed, and it’s crucial not to exceed taking it more than once within a 24-hour period to prevent adverse effects.
Your doctor may adjust your dose, increasing it to 100mg or decreasing it to 25mg based on how well the medication works, allowing for a personalized treatment approach.
It is advisable to take sildenafil up to 4 hours prior to planned sexual activity. However, for sildenafil to be most effective, you will need to be sexually aroused as the medication requires stimulation to function properly.
Dosage and strength for pulmonary hypertension
For those with pulmonary hypertension, sildenafil is available in doses of 10mg and 20mg tablets to manage this serious condition effectively.
The usual dosage for adults is typically 20mg, administered three times a day, helping to alleviate symptoms of pulmonary hypertension.
When prescribed for children, the doses may vary from 10mg to 20mg, also taken three times daily, and this is based on their specific weight and medical condition. Patients should not exceed three doses within a day to avoid complications.
How to take tablets
To take the tablets, simply swallow them whole with water or juice; however, you should avoid grapefruit juice as it can interact negatively with the medication.
For maximum effectiveness regarding erectile dysfunction, it’s best to take sildenafil on an empty stomach since consuming it alongside food can delay its action and overall effectiveness.
How to take liquid
If you're using sildenafil in liquid form, remember that 1ml generally corresponds to a 10mg tablet, but it is vital to always refer to the specific instructions on the medicine label.
Typically, your pharmacist will prepare the liquid sildenafil tailored to your needs, ensuring the correct dosage is provided.
The medication should come with a plastic syringe or spoon designed for accurate measurement. If you lack the proper measuring tool, don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist for assistance, as a regular kitchen teaspoon may not provide an accurate dose.
If you forget to take it
Should you forget to take a dose of sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension, administer it as soon as you remember unless it's nearly time for your next scheduled dose. In such scenarios, simply skip the missed dose and proceed with your normal dosing schedule.
Never attempt to take two doses at once, and avoid taking an extra dose in order to compensate for a missed one, as this can lead to serious health concerns.
If you find yourself frequently forgetting doses, consider setting alarms as reminders, or talk to your pharmacist about additional strategies to help improve your medication adherence.
If you take too much
Overdosing on sildenafil can lead to several uncomfortable side effects that may require medical attention.
If you suspect you have taken more than the prescribed amount of sildenafil, consult your doctor or a healthcare professional promptly, especially if you experience any concerning symptoms:
- headaches
- dizziness
- indigestion
- blocked nose
- changes to your vision