Sildenafil is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping to achieve and maintain an erection during sexual activity. It works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which enhances the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical the body produces to relax muscles in the penis and improve circulation. Sexual stimulation is required for sildenafil to be effective.
Sildenafil is available in various strengths, with dosing tailored to age, tolerance, and response. It is typically taken before anticipated sexual activity but not more than once in a 24-hour period.
Usage Instructions:
Take as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity
May be taken as early as 30 minutes or up to 4 hours before sexual activity
May be taken with or without food, but a high-fat meal may delay onset of effect
Do not take more than once in a 24-hour period unless directed to do so by your provider
Warnings & Precautions:
Do not use if you take nitrates for chest pain, as this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure
Use with caution if you have heart disease, recent stroke, low blood pressure, or certain eye conditions
May cause side effects such as headache, flushing, nasal congestion, dizziness, or vision changes
Avoid excessive alcohol use, as it may increase the risk of dizziness and low blood pressure
Seek immediate medical attention for erections lasting more than 4 hours (priapism) or sudden vision or hearing loss
Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you take to avoid potential interactions
Side effects may include redness or flushing, low blood pressure, hearing loss, diarrhea, nasal congestion, and rarely an erection lasting longer than 4 hours. Vision changes may also occur such as light sensitivity and trouble distinguishing blue and green colors.
This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only a healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. TelyRx does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine’s uses from the patient education materials and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you may receive from your healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please review the entire patient education information you receive with the medication.