pronounced as (sil den' a fil)
Sildenafil, commonly recognized as Viagra, is a medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction, which refers to the inability to achieve or maintain an erection adequate for sexual intercourse. Additionally, Sildenafil is marketed under the brand names Liqrev and Revatio for varying applications, including enhancing the ability to exercise in adults as well as children aged one year and above who suffer from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). PAH signifies elevated blood pressure in the blood vessels supplying the lungs, resulting in symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, and excessive fatigue. As a member of the class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, Sildenafil operates by amplifying blood flow to the penis when a man is sexually stimulated, which facilitates the attainment of an erection. Furthermore, in the context of PAH, Sildenafil helps in relaxing the pulmonary blood vessels, thereby facilitating better blood circulation.
It is crucial for users to understand that while Sildenafil effectively treats erectile dysfunction, it does not serve as a cure for the condition or enhance sexual desire. Additionally, this medication offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections, including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), nor does it prevent pregnancy.
Sildenafil is administrated in the form of a tablet or a liquid suspension intended for oral consumption.
When utilizing Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction, it is essential to adhere closely to your physician's instructions and recommendations outlined in this section. The medication should be taken as needed in anticipation of sexual activity; ideally, it is recommended to ingest Sildenafil approximately one hour prior to engaging in sexual intercourse. However, it can be taken any time within a window ranging from four hours to thirty minutes before the planned activity. It is imperative not to exceed one dose within a twenty-four-hour timeframe. Depending on individual health conditions or concurrent medications, your healthcare provider may advise a reduced frequency of intake. Sildenafil may be ingested with or without food; however, consumption alongside a high-fat meal may delay the onset of the medication's effects.
For those taking Sildenafil for the treatment of PAH, it is generally required to take the medication three times daily, irrespective of meals. Consistency in timing is important; therefore, it is advisable to take Sildenafil at approximately the same times each day.
It is vital to follow the instructions on your prescription label meticulously and seek clarification from your doctor or pharmacist on any segments that are unclear. Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, refraining from taking more or less than what has been directed by your physician.
For liquid formulations, shake the bottle vigorously for ten seconds prior to each use to ensure even distribution of the medication. Utilize the oral syringe provided to accurately measure out your dose. Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding the proper usage and cleaning of the oral syringe, and ensure not to combine the liquid with any other medications or to add flavoring agents.
When Sildenafil is employed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, your healthcare provider will likely commence your treatment with a standard dosage, adjusting it based on your response to the treatment. Make sure to communicate with your doctor if you find that the medication is not achieving the desired effects or if any side effects are troubling you.
In the case of PAH treatment, while Sildenafil aids in managing the condition, it should be understood that it does not represent a cure. Continue taking Sildenafil even if you are feeling well, and it is critical to consult your doctor before discontinuing the medication.
For those seeking further information, do not hesitate to reach out to your pharmacist or healthcare provider to obtain a copy of the manufacturer's patient information.
On occasion, this medication may be prescribed for purposes other than those listed; consult your healthcare provider for more comprehensive details regarding any alternative uses of Sildenafil.
Before administering Sildenafil,
- notify your healthcare provider and pharmacist if you are allergic to Sildenafil or any other substances, including ingredients found in the tablet or suspension form. Request your pharmacist to provide a comprehensive list of these ingredients.
- Certain medications may present contraindications when used alongside Sildenafil. It is essential to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are currently taking nitrates, which are commonly prescribed for chest pain, including isosorbide dinitrate (Isordil), isosorbide mononitrate (Monoket), and nitroglycerin (Nitromist, Nitro-Dur, Nitrostat). Discuss any other medications you are using or considering while preparing to initiate treatment with Sildenafil, as well as any changes in your regimen during treatment.
- Additionally, inform your healthcare provider if you are using recreational drugs that contain nitrates (commonly referred to as 'poppers') such as amyl nitrate, amyl nitrite, or butyl nitrate, as these substances are contraindicated with Sildenafil.
- Also, divulge to your physician or pharmacist any prescription or over-the-counter medications, along with vitamins and dietary supplements you are currently taking or plan to take, as dose adjustments or increased monitoring may be necessary.
- Be aware that Sildenafil is available under the brand names Liqrev, Revatio, and Viagra, and only one of these formulations should be utilized at any given time.
- The following over-the-counter products or herbal supplements may interact adversely with Sildenafil: cimetidine (Tagamet HB) and St. John's wort. It is critical to inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist of these medications prior to initiating Sildenafil therapy, and refrain from starting any new medications or supplements without consulting them.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you smoke, have undergone heart surgery within the past six months, have ever experienced an erection lasting longer than four hours, or have recently undergone significant fluid loss due to illness, severe sweating, or inadequate fluid intake. Additionally, share your medical history, including conditions such as pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD), peptic ulcers, cardiovascular diseases, renal or hepatic issues, history of heart attacks, heart failure, unstable angina, arrhythmias, strokes, high or low blood pressure, hyperlipidemia, bleeding disorders, blood circulation issues, or hematological conditions such as sickle cell anemia, multiple myeloma, or leukemia. Also, communicate any anatomical abnormalities of the penis or diabetes history.
- If you are a female patient being prescribed Sildenafil for PAH treatment, it is important to inform your physician if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Should pregnancy occur during treatment, immediate consultation with your healthcare provider is essential.
- Prior to undergoing any surgical procedures, including dental surgery, it is critical to inform your surgeon or dentist regarding your Sildenafil usage.
- If you are treated for erectile dysfunction, promptly notify your healthcare professional if you have been previously advised against sexual activity for medical reasons or have experienced chest pain during sexual exertion. Engaging in sexual activity may impose additional strain on your cardiovascular system, particularly if pre-existing heart conditions are present. In the event of chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sexual activity, seek immediate medical attention and refrain from further sexual activity until cleared by your healthcare provider.
- Ensure that all your healthcare providers are aware of your Sildenafil treatment. If you require emergency cardiac care, medical personnel must know the last time you administered Sildenafil.
Consult with your physician regarding the consumption of grapefruit and grapefruit juice while undergoing treatment with this medication, as they may have an impact on how Sildenafil works.
For those prescribed Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction, it is unlikely that you will miss a dose since this medication is typically taken on an as-needed basis rather than adhering to a strict schedule.
If taken for PAH, address any missed doses as soon as it comes to your attention. However, if it is nearly time for your subsequent dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to compensate for forgotten ones.
Sildenafil may induce side effects. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider if any of the following symptoms are severe or persist:
- headaches
- heartburn
- diarrhea
- nausea
- flushing or a feeling of warmth
- nosebleeds
- abnormal sensations such as numbness, burning, or tingling in the arms, hands, feet, or legs
- muscle pain or discomfort in the back, arms, or legs
- alterations in color vision, such as a blue tint to objects or difficulty distinguishing between blue and green
- light sensitivity
- nasal congestion
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your healthcare provider without delay:
- sudden severe loss of vision
- blurry vision
- sudden decrease or loss of hearing
- ringing in the ears
- dizziness or sensations of lightheadedness
- fainting spells
- chest pain
- exacerbated shortness of breath
- erection that is painful or persists for longer than four hours
- skin rashes; itching; hives; trouble breathing or swallowing; swelling of facial features, including the eyes, throat, tongue, or lips
There have been reports of sudden vision loss, affecting some or all vision after taking Sildenafil as well as medications similar to it. In some instances, the loss was irreversible. The causal relationship between the medication and vision loss remains unclear. If you encounter a sudden loss of vision while using Sildenafil, contact your healthcare provider instantly. Refrain from taking additional doses of Sildenafil or other similar medications such as tadalafil (Cialis) or vardenafil (Levitra) until you have consulted your healthcare provider.
Instances of heart attacks, strokes, arrhythmias, cerebral or pulmonary hemorrhage, elevated blood pressure, and sudden fatalities have been documented in men taking Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction. Most affected individuals had prior cardiovascular conditions before using the medication. It should be determined if these occurrences were attributable to Sildenafil, sexual activity, underlying heart disease, or a confluence of these and other factors. Engage in forthright discussions with your doctor to comprehend the associated risks linked to Sildenafil usage.
Instances of sudden hearing loss have also been recorded post-administration of Sildenafil or related medications. The cause of this hearing loss is yet to be conclusively identified. If you experience sudden hearing loss, often accompanied by tinnitus or dizziness, while undergoing Sildenafil therapy, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. If you are utilizing Sildenafil (Viagra) for erectile dysfunction, do not take any further doses until you have conversed with your doctor. If prescribed Sildenafil (Liqrev, Revatio) for PAH, do not cease taking your medication without prior consultation.
Sildenafil also has the potential to result in other side effects. If you face any unusual complications during your treatment, seek guidance from your healthcare provider.
In the case of experiencing a major side effect, you or your healthcare provider might report it to the FDA’s (Food and Drug Administration) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program via their website or by contacting them directly at 1-800-332-1088.
This medication should be retained in its original container, secured tightly, and placed out of reach of children. Tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture (avoid the bathroom). The liquid formulation should be kept at room temperature or refrigerated, but never frozen. Any unused suspension should be discarded after 60 days.
It is of utmost importance to ensure that all medications are kept out of sight and reach of children, as many containers (including those for other medications, creams, patches, or inhalers) may not be childproof. To safeguard young children from poisoning, always secure safety closures and promptly store the medication in a safe location—ideally high up and out of their immediate view and reach. For additional safety tips on storing medications, visit the relevant resources online.
Unwanted medications should be discarded in specific ways to ensure that pets, children, and other individuals cannot inadvertently consume them. However, flushing this medication down the toilet is not advisable. The recommended method of disposal is through designated medication take-back programs. Consult your pharmacist or contact your local waste management department to inquire about available take-back initiatives in your vicinity. For further details about proper medication disposal, reference the FDA's Safe Disposal of Medicines website.
If an overdose is suspected, contact the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Additional information can be accessed via their online resources. In the event that an individual has collapsed, has experienced a seizure, is having breathing difficulties, or is unresponsive, immediately call emergency services at 911.
Ensure that you maintain all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider.
Do not share your medication with anyone else. If you have inquiries regarding your prescription refills, consult your pharmacist.
Maintaining a detailed record of all prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements you are using, is critical. Bring this list with you during every doctor's visit or when being admitted to a hospital. This information is also beneficial to carry in case of emergencies.
- Liqrev®
- Revatio®
- Viagra®