Sildenafil Citrate – CVS Pharmacy
How to use
Before beginning your treatment with sildenafil, it is essential that you thoroughly review the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use, which should be provided by your pharmacist. It is crucial to do so every time you receive a refill to ensure that you are up-to-date with the most current information. If you find that you have any uncertainties or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider, be it your doctor or pharmacist. To effectively manage high blood pressure in the lungs, you will typically be advised to take this medication by mouth, with or without food, as prescribed by your healthcare professional, usually three times a day. Prior to each dose, ensure that you shake the bottle vigorously for approximately 10 seconds. It is imperative that you carefully measure your dose with a special measuring device or spoon, as a household spoon may not provide the correct dosage, leading to potential complications. Your specific dosage will be contingent upon several factors, such as your medical condition, your response to the treatment, and any other medications you are concurrently taking. It is crucial to keep your doctor and pharmacist informed about all the medications and products you are using, including over-the-counter items and herbal supplements. For children, dosing is often calculated based on weight. Never increase your prescribed dose or use this medication more frequently than directed, as this will not expedite your recovery and may significantly heighten your risk of experiencing adverse side effects. Moreover, it is advisable not to mix sildenafil with other medications or liquids. Consistency is key; take this medication regularly and at the same times each day to maximize its effectiveness. If you notice that your condition does not improve or worsens, promptly communicate this to your healthcare provider.
Precautions
Before you begin taking sildenafil, it is vital to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any known allergies to this medication or any other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could potentially lead to allergic reactions or other medical issues. For more information, consult your pharmacist regarding the components of the medication. Prior to starting sildenafil, it is essential to discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider, especially concerning any heart-related problems (including but not limited to previous heart attacks, life-threatening irregular heartbeats within the last six months, angina, or heart failure), strokes occurring in the past six months, or any history of hypertension or hypotension. Always mention any instances of dehydration, specific penile conditions (like angulation or Peyronie's disease), or a history of painful or prolonged erections (priapism). This is especially important for individuals with conditions that may increase the risk of priapism, such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or multiple myeloma. Eye conditions (like retinitis pigmentosa or sudden vision loss) should also be disclosed to your healthcare provider, along with any other lung issues, particularly pulmonary veno-occlusive disease. As this medication may cause dizziness or vision disturbances, it is advisable to avoid consuming alcohol or marijuana, as these can exacerbate feelings of dizziness. Until you are certain of your ability to do so safely, refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require precise attention. Also, limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages. If you are a marijuana user, discuss this with your healthcare provider as well. Prior to any surgical procedures, it is imperative to inform your doctor or dentist about all medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medications, as well as herbal supplements. During pregnancy, sildenafil should only be administered when it is significantly warranted. Given that high blood pressure in the lungs poses serious health risks for both the mother and the unborn child, you should not discontinue this medication without your doctor's guidance. If you are planning to conceive, are already pregnant, or suspect you may be pregnant, it is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks that using this medication may present during pregnancy with your healthcare provider. Be aware that sildenafil can transfer into breast milk, so consult your doctor before initiating breastfeeding.
Storage
The storage requirements for sildenafil can vary between different brands, so it is essential to read the product packaging for specific storage instructions tailored to your particular brand. Furthermore, always consult your pharmacist if you are uncertain about how to store your medication properly. All medications, including sildenafil, should be kept out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Never dispose of medications by flushing them down the toilet or pouring them down the drain unless explicitly instructed to do so. Proper disposal of this product is crucial once it has expired or is no longer necessary; therefore, seek guidance from your pharmacist or consult with your local waste disposal facility to ensure safe and responsible disposal practices.