Sildenafil 100 mg Oral Jelly: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD
What is Sildenafil 100 mg Oral Jelly used for?
Sildenafil 100 mg Oral Jelly is primarily prescribed to treat the following medical conditions:
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED), a condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), which is characterized by increased blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, helping enhance physical performance and alleviate symptoms.
In addition, your healthcare provider might prescribe Sildenafil for other reasons as deemed appropriate based on your individual health needs.
How does Sildenafil work (mechanism of action)?
The active ingredient in Sildenafil, Sildenafil Citrate, acts as a selective inhibitor of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). This inhibition results in the relaxation of blood vessels in the penile region, thus facilitating increased blood flow during sexual arousal and aiding in achieving and sustaining an erection. When used for pulmonary arterial hypertension, it contributes to the relaxation of blood vessels in the lungs, which diminishes heart strain and improves exercise tolerance.
How is Sildenafil 100 mg Oral Jelly supplied (dosage forms)?
Common brand names for Sildenafil Oral Jelly include:
- Viagra Oral Jelly
- Revatio Oral Jelly
This medication is available in the dosage form of:
- 100 mg oral jelly
For those who prefer tablets, Sildenafil is also available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg doses.
How should I store Sildenafil 100 mg Oral Jelly?
Oral Jelly Storage: Store the oral jelly at room temperature, ensuring it is kept away from excess moisture and light. Do not freeze the product and ensure it is out of reach of children.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of Sildenafil 100 mg Oral Jelly?
Some of the frequently reported side effects of Sildenafil include:
- Headaches
- Facial flushing
- Indigestion or upset stomach
- Changes in vision, such as a blue tint
- Nasal congestion
- Back pain
- Dizziness
- Skin rashes
If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it is advisable to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
What are the serious side effects of Sildenafil?
Although rare, serious side effects may occur, including:
- Priapism: An erection lasting longer than 4 hours can cause permanent damage and demands immediate medical intervention.
- Vision Changes: Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes requires urgent medical attention.
- Hearing Impairments: Sudden hearing loss, often accompanied by dizziness, necessitates prompt medical consultation.
- Serious Allergic Reactions: This may involve symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or skin rash.
Warnings & Precautions
Who should not take Sildenafil 100 mg Oral Jelly?
Allergic Reactions: Those who have a known allergy to Sildenafil or any components in the formulation should avoid using this medication.
Drug Interactions: It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all your medications and supplements to prevent potential interactions, especially with:
- Nitrate medications (commonly used for chest pain)
- Alpha-blockers
- Certain medications for high blood pressure
- Riociguat (Adempas)
What should I know before taking Sildenafil?
Prior to starting Sildenafil, consult your healthcare provider to confirm it is safe for you, especially if you have a history of:
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Previous strokes or heart attacks
- Uncontrolled blood pressure (either high or low)
- Kidney or liver problems
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
The effects of Sildenafil during pregnancy remain unclear. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to conceive. Note that Sildenafil can pass into breast milk; thus, consult your provider before breastfeeding.
Interactions
Does Sildenafil interact with foods or drinks?
Ingesting a high-fat meal may delay the absorption of Sildenafil, potentially reducing its efficacy. Additionally, grapefruit and grapefruit juice can elevate Sildenafil levels, leading to enhanced side effects.
Does Sildenafil interact with other medications?
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, especially:
- Nitrate medications
- Certain antibiotics and antifungals
- Other medications for erectile dysfunction
Overdose/Missed Dose
What should I do if I accidentally take too much Sildenafil?
In the case of an overdose, seek immediate medical assistance or contact Poison Control for direction.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Sildenafil?
Erectile Dysfunction: Sildenafil is generally taken on an as-needed basis, without a fixed dosing schedule. Avoid taking more than the prescribed amount.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: If a dose is missed, take it immediately upon remembering; however, if it's close to your next dose, skip the missed one.
Consultation: Always engage with your healthcare provider for individualized advice regarding the use of Sildenafil and your overall treatment plan.