Sildenafil Citrate – CVS Pharmacy
How to use
Prior to starting sildenafil, it is crucial to read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist, and to refer to it each time you pick up your refill. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the medication, do not hesitate to ask your doctor or your pharmacist for clarification. This medication is designed to treat high blood pressure in the lungs; therefore, it should be taken by mouth with or without food as instructed by your healthcare professional, typically three times throughout the day. It's important to shake the bottle thoroughly for ten seconds before each dose, ensuring the medication is well mixed. When measuring your dose, utilize a specific measuring device or spoon that is recommended for this purpose, as household spoons may not yield an accurate measurement and could lead to taking the wrong amount. Your prescribed dosage will depend on your individual medical condition, how well you respond to the treatment, and any other medications you are currently taking. It is essential to keep your doctor and pharmacist informed about all the products you are using, which includes prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and any herbal supplements. For children, the dosage of this medication is also determined based on their weight. Never attempt to increase your dose or take the medication more often than what has been prescribed, as doing so will not result in a faster improvement of your condition, and it may increase your risk of experiencing adverse side effects. Avoid combining this medication with any other drugs or liquids unless directed by your healthcare provider. In order to maximize the benefit you receive from sildenafil, it is crucial to take this medication consistently. Setting a specific schedule to take your doses at the same times each day can aid in remembering to take the medication regularly. If you find that your medical condition is not improving or if it appears to worsen, it is important to inform your doctor promptly to reassess your treatment plan.
Precautions
Before commencing treatment with sildenafil, it is vital to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any known allergies to this medication or if you are aware of any other allergies you might possess. This product may contain inactive ingredients that have the potential to trigger allergic reactions or cause other complications. For more specific information, consult your pharmacist. Before starting sildenafil, you should disclose your complete medical history to your healthcare provider, particularly if you have experienced any heart issues (such as a heart attack or serious irregular heartbeat in the past six months, angina, or heart failure), or if you have had a stroke within the last six months. Be especially careful if you have a history of high or low blood pressure, dehydration, or specific conditions related to the penis (for example, angulation, scarring, or Peyronie’s disease). Also, notify your provider if you have a history of painful or prolonged erections, as seen in priapism, or any conditions that might elevate the risk of this occurrence, such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or multiple myeloma; and be sure to disclose any eye problems like retinitis pigmentosa or sudden vision loss. Additionally, it is important to be aware that this medication can cause dizziness or visual disturbances. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana may heighten these effects. Therefore, refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in any activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you feel confident in your ability to do so safely. It is advisable to limit alcoholic intake while using this medication. If you are using marijuana, discuss this with your doctor as well. If you are scheduled for any surgical procedures, ensure to inform your doctor or dentist about all medications you are currently taking, which encompasses prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, as well as herbal supplements. In the case of pregnancy, sildenafil should only be used if it is deemed clearly necessary by your healthcare professional. Since pulmonary hypertension poses a significant risk to both the mother and the unborn child, do not discontinue this medication unless specifically directed by your healthcare provider. Should you be planning a pregnancy, expect to become pregnant, or suspect that you may be pregnant, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your doctor regarding the potential benefits and risks associated with the use of this medication during pregnancy. Be aware that sildenafil can pass into breast milk; therefore, it’s prudent to consult your healthcare professional before initiating breastfeeding.
Storage
The storage requirements for this medication can vary among different brands; it is therefore important to check the product package for specific storage instructions relevant to the brand you have been prescribed. Alternatively, you may seek advice from your pharmacist regarding the best storage practices. Always ensure that all medications are kept out of reach of children and pets to prevent any accidental ingestion. It is crucial not to flush medications down the toilet or pour them down a drain unless you have received explicit instructions to do so. When it comes time to dispose of this medication, do so properly, especially when it has expired or is no longer required. For advice on the correct disposal methods, consult your pharmacist or reach out to your local waste management authority for guidance on safe disposal practices.