Sildenafil (oral route)
It is crucial to inform all of your healthcare providers that you are taking sildenafil. In the event that you require emergency medical treatment for a heart-related issue, it becomes essential for your doctor to know the last time you ingested sildenafil. This information can significantly affect the management of your care during such emergencies.
It is imperative that you do not use this medication concurrently with any nitrate medications, which are typically prescribed for conditions such as angina or elevated blood pressure. Examples of nitrate medications include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, refrain from using any illegal ('street') drugs known as 'poppers,' which may contain amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite. Furthermore, avoid this medication if you are also taking riociguat (Adempas®) as this combination can lead to severe complications.
In the case of taking this medication for pulmonary arterial hypertension, your physician will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. These visits are essential as they allow your healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and determine whether you should persist with the medication based on your response.
If you are prescribed sildenafil for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, refrain from taking Viagra® or any other PDE5 inhibitors, such as tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®). It is important to note that Viagra® also contains sildenafil, and using too much of this substance or combining it with the aforementioned medications may significantly increase the risk of experiencing adverse effects.
It is also important to understand that sildenafil should never be combined with any other medications or devices intended to induce erections.
Be sure to inform your doctor of any existing heart conditions you currently have or may have experienced previously. This medication can lead to severe complications in individuals with underlying cardiac issues.
If you notice a prolonged or painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer, it is critical to contact your healthcare professional immediately. This condition, known as priapism, may necessitate urgent medical intervention in order to avoid serious and irreversible damage to the penis.
Should you experience a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, reach out to your doctor without delay. Immediate attention is necessary to assess the situation thoroughly.
Check in with your physician as soon as possible if you encounter a sudden decline in hearing or experience hearing loss, which may coincide with symptoms of dizziness or a ringing sensation in the ears. Timely evaluation is important for your health.
If you are currently on medication for high blood pressure (hypertension), be cautioned that sildenafil has the potential to lower your blood pressure excessively. Seek immediate medical advice if you experience blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness when standing up suddenly from lying down or sitting, as well as increased sweating or unexplained fatigue or weakness.
This medication does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (including HIV or AIDS). It is advisable to employ protective measures during sexual activity, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or queries regarding this issue.
Do not initiate any new medications without first discussing them with your healthcare provider. This includes all prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) drugs, as well as herbal or vitamin supplements that may interact with sildenafil.