Sildenafil (Oral Tablet): Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and Review

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Highlights for sildenafil

Both the brand-name medication and the generic version of the oral tablet form of sildenafil are on the market. Brand names: Viagra, Revatio.

There are three different ways to take sildenafil: as an oral tablet, as an oral suspension (liquid), and as an injection that can only be administered by a medical professional.

Oral sildenafil tablets are utilised as a treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Additionally, it is employed in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

What exactly is the sildenafil?

A doctor’s prescription is required to get sildenafil. Tablets and a liquid suspension are the two forms that it is available in (liquid). Both are meant to be consumed orally. It is also available in an intravenous (IV) version, which can only be administered by a licenced medical professional.

There is an oral tablet form of sildenafil that is marketed under the brand names Viagra and Revatio. A generic version of the medication is also on the market. In most cases, the cost of generic pharmaceuticals is significantly lower than that of their brand-name counterparts. It is possible that they do not come in the same dosage strengths or forms as the brand-name drug in some instances.

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Why it’s put to use

Both ED and PAH can be treated with the oral pill form of sildenafil. There is a tablet form of the generic medication that can be taken orally to treat either ailment, although the brand-name medications each treat only one of the disorders.

Viagra is a medication that can treat erectile dysfunction (ED). When you have erectile dysfunction (ED), you won’t be able to get or keep an erection.

This condition can be remedied with the use of the medication Revatio. When you have PAH, your lungs will have abnormally high blood pressure. In order for your blood to be pumped into your lungs, your heart has to work very hard.

How exactly does it operate?

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are a class of medications, and sildenafil is a member of this group. A group of different pharmaceuticals that share a common mode of action is referred to as a class of drugs. These medications are frequently prescribed to address illnesses that are analogous to one another.

Depending on the ailment that it is being utilised to cure, Sildenafil might work in a variety of different ways.

In the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), sildenafil works by boosting blood flow to the penis. This assists in achieving and maintaining an erection. In order for sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction, the patient must first be sexually aroused.

In the treatment of PAH, sildenafil works by causing the muscles in your lungs to relax and opening up the blood vessels there. Because of this, the blood pressure in your lungs will fall. The progression of your sickness will be slowed down by using sildenafil. Additionally, it improves your ability to engage in physical activity.

How sildenafil should be taken

How long should I wait before having sexual activity after taking sildenafil?

It is possible to take sildenafil as early as four hours before sexual activity or as late as thirty minutes before sexual activity. On the other hand, it is advised to take this medication no more than an hour before sexual activity.

What is the recommended dosage of sildenafil for me?

When treating erectile dysfunction (ED), the sildenafil should not be taken more than once per 24 hours. But if you have certain medical issues or are taking other prescriptions, your doctor could suggest that you take this medication less frequently than once a day. This is something to discuss with your healthcare provider.

Should I take sildenafil before or after a meal?

Sildenafil can be taken with or without food according to your preference. It is essential to keep in mind that taking the medication with some foods, particularly foods that are heavy in fat, may result in the medication working more slowly than usual.

Sildenafil side effects

The oral pill form of sildenafil does not cause drowsiness; nonetheless, it can produce various side effects, including the following:

nosebleeds

headaches

bloating, nausea, and flushing (reddening and warming of the face)

symptoms such as difficulty sleeping fever an erection that lasts longer than normal an infection of the respiratory system

nausea

vomiting

coughing fit painful throat bronchitis

runny nose

In the event that these side effects are not severe, it is possible that they will disappear in a matter of days or weeks. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if the symptoms become more severe or if they do not go away.

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Serious adverse effects may result.

If you are experiencing major adverse effects, you should contact your physician as soon as possible. In the event that your symptoms appear to be life-threatening or if you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 immediately. The following is a list of potentially serious side effects and the symptoms they cause:

a lowering of the blood pressure. Symptoms could include things like double vision or confusion.

dizziness \sfainting \slightheadedness

sickness and/or throwing up

sleepiness

weakness

Increased instances of difficulties breathing or shortness of breath

Priapism (an erection that lasts more than 4 hours)

Vision issues. A sudden loss of vision in either eye or both eyes is one of the possible symptoms.

Problems with one’s hearing Hearing loss that comes on suddenly is one possible symptom.

tinnitus (ringing in your ears)

dizziness

Problems with the heart, including but not limited to heart attack, stroke, and abnormal heart rate Symptoms may include the following:

chest pain

a racing heart, loss of breath, and dizziness

difficulty in communicating; muddled thinking

sickness and/or throwing up

sensations of lightheadedness

Warnings of vital importance

Caution: this medication may cause priapism, which is defined as an erection that persists despite attempts to relieve it. If you get an erection that lasts for more than four hours, you should call 911 or go to the emergency room in your area as soon as possible. If you do not seek treatment for this illness right away, it has the potential to cause irreversible damage to your penis.

A warning has been issued regarding the potential for this medication to cause abrupt vision loss in either one or both eyes. This may be an indication of a more significant issue with the eyes. In the event that this occurs, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider and stop taking sildenafil.

Warning for sudden hearing loss: This medication may cause dizziness, tinnitus (a ringing sensation in the ears), or hearing loss in some people. Stop taking sildenafil and get in touch with a medical professional as soon as possible if you experience sudden hearing loss along with tinnitus or dizziness.

Caution should be exercised while administering sildenafil to children. In most cases, children should not take sildenafil; nonetheless, there are conditions in which the medication is regarded as the most effective therapeutic option. Have a discussion about this treatment option with the physician who cares for your kid so that you may get a better understanding of the benefits and dangers involved with it.

There is a possibility that Sildenafil will interact with other drugs.

There is a possibility that the oral tablet form of sildenafil could interact negatively with other drugs, vitamins, or herbs that you might be taking. When one substance alters the functioning of another, this is known as an interaction. This may result in adverse effects or reduce the efficacy of the medication.

Your physician ought to properly manage all of your prescriptions for you in order to help you avoid interactions. It is imperative that you discuss any drugs, supplements, or herbs that you are currently taking with your primary care physician. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about how this medication might interact with other medications that you are currently taking.

The following is a list of examples of medications that may produce adverse reactions when used with sildenafil.

Sildenafil should not be taken with the following medications:

It is not safe to combine sildenafil with these other medications. It’s possible that doing so will have harmful repercussions on the body. Some examples of these medications are as follows:

Nitrates, such as isosorbide mononitrate, isosorbide dinitrate, or nitroglycerin.

If you take these medications along with sildenafil, you run the risk of experiencing a sudden drop in your blood pressure to a hazardous level.

stimulators of the enzyme guanylate cyclase, such as riociguat.

If you take these medications along with sildenafil, you run the risk of experiencing a sudden drop in your blood pressure to a hazardous level.

Interactions that put you at a higher risk for experiencing adverse effects

Side effects from sildenafil: Taking sildenafil in conjunction with some other medications increases the likelihood that you will experience adverse effects from the sildenafil. This is due to an increase in the amount of sildenafil that is present in your body. Some examples of these medications are as follows:

HIV medications, such as ritonavir, indinavir, saquinavir, or atazanavir.

An increase in side effects may include symptoms such as low blood pressure, dizziness, or issues with vision. Erections that persist significantly longer than usual are another possible symptom of this condition.

Several antibiotics, including clarithromycin and erythromycin, in particular.

An increase in side effects may include symptoms such as low blood pressure, dizziness, or issues with vision. Erections that persist significantly longer than usual are another possible symptom of this condition.

Particular antifungals, such ketoconazole or itraconazole, for example.

An increase in side effects may include symptoms such as low blood pressure, dizziness, or issues with vision. Erections that persist significantly longer than usual are another possible symptom of this condition.

Other medications’ adverse effects include the following: The use of certain medications in conjunction with sildenafil increases the likelihood that you will have adverse effects from those medications. Some examples of these medications are as follows:

alpha-blockers, including terazosin, tamsulosin, doxazosin, alfuzosin, and silodosin, among others.

A fall in blood pressure or feeling faint is two potential adverse effects of the increased dosage.

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Medication for high blood pressure, such as amlodipine.

One of the increased negative effects may be a drop in blood pressure that is unhealthy.

Additional medications for erectile dysfunction include avanafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil, among others.

One of the increased negative effects may be a drop in blood pressure, as well as erections that persist significantly longer than usual.

Please understand that our intention is to present you with the most recent and pertinent information possible. However, because the effects of medications vary from person to person, we are unable to guarantee that this material covers all of the potentially relevant drug interactions. This information is not intended to replace professional medical advice in any way. Always discuss the possibility of drug interactions with your healthcare practitioner before taking any medication, whether it be over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, vitamins, herbs, or supplements.

Sildenafil warnings

This medication comes with a number of precautions.

Caution: allergens present

A serious allergic reaction is possible when taking sildenafil. Symptoms may include the following:

a difficult or impossible time breathing throat or tongue swelling

If you have any of these symptoms, immediately dial 911 or go to the emergency room in your area.

If you have ever experienced an adverse reaction to this medication, you should never take it again. Taking it once again could be your last tragic mistake (cause death).

Caution regarding alcohol and drug interactions

Consuming alcoholic beverages while taking sildenafil increases the likelihood that you will experience low blood pressure as a side effect of the medication. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are an alcoholic. While you are taking this medication, it is possible that your blood pressure will need to be checked.

Warnings for individuals who have the following health conditions:

This medication can help lower your blood pressure, which is beneficial for those who have heart problems. Ask your physician whether you’ve had certain heart problems in the past half year to determine whether or not this medication is safe for you to use. These issues can manifest as a life-threatening heart attack, stroke, or disturbance in the normal rhythm of the heart. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart failure or coronary artery disease, as well as if you have low or high blood pressure when you are at rest.

People who are diagnosed with pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) should: Taking this medication could make your heart perform more poorly. You should not put this medicine into your body.

Causing sudden vision loss in one or both eyes, this medication should be avoided by patients who already have eye conditions. There is a possibility that this is an indication of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). If you have already been diagnosed with NAION or have a crowded optic disc, you may have an increased risk of developing NAION as well as alterations in your vision if you take this medication.

For those who have issues with the shape of their penis: If you have an issue with the shape of your penis, such as Peyronie’s disease, taking this medication increases the likelihood that you will have an erection that lasts longer than four hours.

If you have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, you should know that taking this medication can increase your risk of developing new ulcers, as well as the possibility of developing small holes in the lining of your digestive system. These occurrences can result in death (cause death). They are unpredictable and can take place at any time, with or without any symptoms.

People who have sickle cell anaemia should be aware that this medication may trigger a vaso-occlusive crisis, which is a common and excruciating complication of sickle cell anaemia. If you have sickle cell anaemia, you should consult your physician to determine whether or not it is safe for you to use this medication.

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Cautionary notes for members of other groups

Concerning expectant mothers, studies conducted on animals have revealed that there is no evidence of a threat to the developing foetus when the mother takes the medication. However, there have not been sufficient studies conducted on humans taking the medication for PAH to show whether or not the medication poses harm to the developing foetus.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or if you are thinking about becoming pregnant. It does not appear plausible that this medication will cause any harm to an ongoing pregnancy. On the other hand, this medication should not be taken during pregnancy unless it is absolutely necessary.

Women should not take Viagra or any other form of sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).

When used to treat PAH, sildenafil may enter into breast milk and may produce adverse effects in a child who is breastfed. This information is provided for women who are breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding your child, you should discuss this with your physician. It is possible that you will need to make a choice between discontinuing nursing and terminating treatment with this medicine.

Women should not take Viagra or any other form of sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).

It’s possible that older folks won’t have the same level of kidney, liver, or cardiac function as they did in their younger years. This may result in a decreased rate of medication elimination from your body. Because of this, a greater quantity of a medicine is retained in your body for a longer period of time. This increases the likelihood that you will experience side effects.

Regarding the use of this medication in youngsters, anyone under the age of 18 should avoid doing so. According to the findings of one study, the likelihood of fatalities among PAH patients who used this medication was significantly enhanced.

Instructions for taking sildenafil

It’s conceivable that not all dosing options or drug formulations have been included here. The following factors will determine the optimal dosage, medicine form, and administration schedule for the medication:

your age, the ailment being treated, the severity of your condition, and any other medical issues you have other medical disorders It all depends on how you respond to the very first dose.

The appropriate dose for treating erectile dysfunction (ED)

Generic: Sildenafil

Tablets to be taken orally.

Strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg

Viagra is the brand.

Tablets to be taken orally.

Strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg Adult dose (ages 18–64 years)

The typical dosage is 50 milligrammes, which should be taken as needed approximately one hour before engaging in sexual activity. It is recommended to take it anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before engaging in sexual activity.

Maximum dosage: 100 mg once per day.

Dosage for children (ages 0–17 years)

It is not known whether or whether this medication is safe or effective for use in children younger than 18 years old.

Senior dosage (ages 65 years and older)

There is a possibility that older persons will not have the same level of kidney, liver, or cardiac function as they once did. This may result in a decreased rate of medication elimination from your body. Because of this, a greater quantity of a medicine is retained in your body for a longer period of time. This increases the likelihood that you will experience side effects.

It’s possible that your physician will start you out on a lesser dose of sildenafil. You won’t have to worry as much about the accumulation of this medicine in your system if you do this.

Sildenafil dosage recommendations for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)

Tablets to be taken orally.

Strengths: 20 mg

Manufacturer: Revatio

Tablets to be taken orally.

Strengths: 20 mg Adult dose (ages 18–64 years)

Standard dosage is five or twenty milligrammes, given three times a day at intervals of four to six hours.

Maximum daily dose of 20 mg, must be taken in three equal doses spaced between 4 and 6 hours apart.

Dosage for children (ages 0–17 years)

This medication must never be administered to a patient who is younger than 18 years old.

Senior dosage (ages 65 years and older)

There is a possibility that older persons will not have the same level of kidney, liver, or cardiac function as they once did. This may result in a decreased rate of medication elimination from your body. Because of this, a greater quantity of a medicine is retained in your body for a longer period of time. This increases the likelihood that you will experience side effects.

It’s possible that your physician will start you out on a lesser dose of sildenafil. You won’t have to worry as much about the accumulation of this medicine in your system if you do this.

Please understand that our intention is to present you with the most recent and pertinent information possible. However, due to the fact that medications have varying effects on various people, we are unable to guarantee that this list contains all of the possible dosages. This information is not intended to replace professional medical advice in any way. Always with your primary care physician or a pharmacist on the dosages that are appropriate for you.

Take exactly as directed.

The oral tablet form of sildenafil is utilised both for the short-term therapy of erectile dysfunction (ED) and the long-term treatment of PAH. If you don’t take it exactly as directed, you put yourself at danger of serious side effects.

In the event that you suddenly stop taking the medication or don’t take it at all:

Regarding ED: Your ED symptoms will not get better.

Regarding PAH, your condition will not improve, and it is possible that it could get worse. You won’t even have the ability to move about.

If you skip doses or don’t take the medication according to the prescribed schedule:

Regarding ED: Your ED symptoms will not get better.

Regarding PAH, the effectiveness of this drug could decrease, or it could cease working entirely. In order for this medication to perform properly, there must always be a specific quantity present in the body.

If you take an excessive amount of the medicine, you run the risk of having unsafe quantities of it in your body. The following are some of the symptoms that may accompany an overdose of this drug:

symptoms of low blood pressure including fainting and dizziness

eyesight troubles

issues with hearing

distress in the chest and stomach

Call your physician or the poison control centre in your area if you believe you may have taken too much of this medication. If your symptoms are severe, you should immediately phone 911 or go to the emergency room that is located closest to you.

What to do in case you forget to take a dose:

For erectile dysfunction, take your medication between 30 minutes and 4 hours before your next sexual encounter.

When treating PAH, it is important to take your medication as soon as you recall it. If, however, you only remember a few hours before your next planned dose, then you should only take that one dose. Under no circumstances should you attempt to catch up by taking two doses at once. Because of this, potentially harmful consequences could arise.

How to tell if the medicine is having the desired effect:

If you suffer from erectile dysfunction, you should be able to get and keep an erection while sexually aroused.

You should find that it is easier to exercise now that you are using PAH medication. In addition, your physician will examine you to establish whether or not this medication is having the desired effect.

Important factors to consider before beginning treatment with sildenafil

If your physician prescribes sildenafil for you, keep these things in mind when you take the medication.

General

This medication can be used either with or without food.

You have the option of cutting or crushing the tablet.

When you take the medication is determined by the condition that you are trying to treat:

Regarding erectile dysfunction, this medication may be used at any point during the day.

For PAH, the recommended dosage is one tablet every four to six hours, taken three times per day. Always remember to take it at the same time each day.

Storage

Store sildenafil tablets at room temperature, which should be between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius (59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit).

Keep the tablets of sildenafil away from direct sunlight.

It is important that you do not keep this medication in a place that is going to be wet or damp, such as the restroom.

Refills It is possible to get additional refills on your prescription for this medication. It should not be necessary for you to provide a new prescription in order to have this medication refilled. On your prescription, your physician will indicate the maximum number of refills that are permitted.

Travel

If you are going to travel with your medication, you should:

Always ensure that you have your medication on you. When flying, you should under never circumstances put it in a checked bag. Keep it in the carry-on bag you’re using.

You don’t need to be concerned about the X-ray machines at the airport. They are unable to affect the medication you are taking.

It’s possible that airport employees will ask to see the pharmacy label for the medication you’re carrying with you. Always make sure you have the original container with the prescription label on it.

Do not place this medication in the glove compartment of your vehicle or leave it in the vehicle alone. Make it a point to steer clear of doing this when the temperature is either hot or extremely cold.

Clinical monitoring

It is possible that your doctor will check your blood pressure and pulse on a frequent basis if you are taking this medication for PAH.

Availability

This medication is not available at all pharmacies. Before you go to the pharmacy to fill your prescription, give them a quick call to make sure they have the medication in stock.

Authorization in advance

This medication must first obtain prior authorization from the majority of insurance carriers. This indicates that your insurance company may require your doctor to obtain clearance from your insurance company before they will pay for the prescription from your insurance company.

Concerning sildenafil, the most frequently asked questions are as follows:

Why is sildenafil included on the prescription list? Erectile dysfunction can be treated with Sildenafil, also known as Viagra. This medication works by increasing the amount of blood that flows to the penis when the patient is aroused. As a treatment for PAH, the drug Sildenafil, sold under the brand name Revatio, is frequently administered to adults in order to encourage them to engage in more physical activity.

What happens if I don’t remember to take it? If you are taking Revatio and you forget to take a dose at the time it was supposed to be taken, you should take it as soon as you remember. Nevertheless, you should never increase your dosage by more over 100 percent. If you forget a whole dose and it is almost time for the following dose, you should skip the dose that you forgot entirely.

Before I start using this drug, should I perform any pre-drug safety checks or take any other precautions? Before using this drug, you need to take some safety measures, as is the case with the majority of prescriptions.

Are there any other options available?

There are additional medications that can be used to treat your illness. It’s possible that some will work better for you than others. Talk to your healthcare provider about the possibility of trying out other medications to see if any of them help.

Sildenafil vs. tadalafil

Both sildenafil and tadalafil are capable of treating erectile dysfunction as well as pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, there are a few key differences between tadalafil and sildenafil.

Tadalafil is the generic term for the brand-name medicine Cialis, which treats erectile dysfunction. The medication is available in two different formulations:

a variant with a daily dosage and one that can be used whenever it’s required

The only PDE5 inhibitor dose that has been approved for treating an enlarged prostate is Cialis 5 mg once daily; the daily dose also has the added benefit of reducing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED).

Because tadalafil is available in a “as needed” formulation, this alternative can appeal to a certain subset of consumers as being more convenient. Additionally, tadalafil has a propensity to:

work faster

not be affected by meals and endure for a longer period of time

The adverse effects, on the other hand, typically continue for a longer period of time.

What sets sildenafil apart from its more famous counterpart, Viagra?

The marketing of generic sildenafil and Viagra is the primary distinction between the two. Sildenafil is the primary component of Viagra, hence tadalafil and viagra have roughly the same active substance.

On the other hand, Viagra is only marketed and prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, whereas the generic version of sildenafil can also be given for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Due to the fact that it is blue in colour, Viagra is also referred to as “the little blue pill,” although generic sildenafil typically appears to be white in colour.