It's important to take sildenafil as advised by a healthcare professional, such as your doctor or pharmacist, to ensure safety and efficacy.
Dosage and strength for erectile dysfunction
Sildenafil tablets specifically designed for treating erectile dysfunction are available in various strengths ranging from 25mg to 100mg.
The typical recommended dose is 50mg, to be taken as needed. It is crucial to adhere to the guideline of not taking it more than once within a 24-hour period.
Depending on individual response to the medication, your healthcare provider may recommend an adjustment of the dose, either increasing it to 100mg or decreasing it to 25mg.
For optimal effectiveness, take sildenafil anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before engaging in sexual activity. Additionally, it is important to note that sildenafil requires sexual stimulation to work effectively.
Dosage and strength for pulmonary hypertension
Sildenafil tablets used to treat pulmonary hypertension are available in strengths of 10mg and 20mg.
For adults, the standard dose is 20mg taken three times daily to manage symptoms effectively.
When prescribed for pediatric patients, the dosage can vary between 10mg to 20mg, taken three times a day, based on the child's body weight. It is essential to adhere to the maximum limit of three doses per day.
How to take tablets
To consume the tablets, swallow them whole along with a glass of water or juice (but be sure to avoid grapefruit juice, as it can interact with the medication).
For the most effective results in treating erectile dysfunction, it is advisable to take sildenafil on an empty stomach since food may delay its onset of action.
How to take liquid
If you or your child are prescribed sildenafil in liquid form, keep in mind that 1ml typically corresponds to a 10mg dose, but it is critical to verify this information with the specific medicine label.
The liquid formulation of sildenafil is usually compounded by a pharmacist to ensure accurate dosages.
To assist in ensuring the correct dosage, the medication will come with a calibrated plastic syringe or dosing spoon. Always request a dosing device from your pharmacist if one is not provided, and avoid using a standard kitchen teaspoon as it is not designed for precise measuring.
If you forget to take it
For those managing pulmonary hypertension, if you forget to take a dose of sildenafil, administer it as soon as you recall, unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. In such instances, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Under no circumstances should you take two doses simultaneously or utilize an extra dose to compensate for a missed one.
If you find yourself frequently forgetting doses, consider setting an alarm as a reminder. You may also consult your pharmacist for additional strategies to help enhance your adherence to the prescribed medication regimen.
If you take too much
Exceeding the recommended dosage of sildenafil can lead to a range of unpleasant side effects and may require medical attention to ensure safety.
If you suspect that you have taken an excessive amount of sildenafil and are experiencing any concerning side effects, please reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.
- headaches
- dizziness
- indigestion
- blocked nose
- changes to your vision