Sildenafil
Your safety is our first priority. Learn more about key medication details, side effects, and other important info about your treatment at the link below.
Important Safety Information
Sildenafil is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, helping to achieve and maintain an erection. It is also used under the brand name Revatio® to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
Sildenafil is commonly known by the brand name Viagra® when used for erectile dysfunction.
Only take Sildenafil as prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider.
Do Not Use Sildenafil If You:
- Take nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) for chest pain or heart conditions
- Use medications called guanylate cyclase stimulators (e.g., riociguat)
- Are allergic to sildenafil or any of its ingredients
- Have been advised by your doctor to avoid sexual activity due to heart problems
Warnings and Precautions:
- Heart risks: Sexual activity may pose a risk if you have heart disease. Consult your provider to determine if Sildenafil is safe for you.
- Priapism: An erection lasting more than 4 hours can cause permanent damage. Seek immediate medical help if this occurs.
- Sudden vision or hearing loss: Rare but serious. Stop using the medication and seek emergency care if you experience these symptoms.
- Low blood pressure: Can occur, especially when combined with alcohol, nitrates, or certain medications.
- Use caution if you have liver or kidney problems, bleeding disorders, or a history of stroke or heart attack.
Possible Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath during sex
- Sudden vision or hearing loss
- Severe dizziness or lightheadedness
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Erection lasting longer than 4 hours
Common Side Effects May Include:
- Headache
- Flushing (warmth or redness in face, neck, or chest)
- Indigestion
- Nasal congestion
- Dizziness
- Back pain or muscle aches
- Changes in vision (e.g., blue tint, blurred vision)
Before Taking Sildenafil, Tell Your Healthcare Provider If You:
- Have heart problems, high or low blood pressure
- Have liver or kidney disease
- Have a bleeding disorder or active ulcers
- Have a physical deformity of the penis (e.g., Peyronie’s disease)
- Have retinitis pigmentosa or other eye conditions
- Are taking other medications for erectile dysfunction or PAH
Drug Interactions
Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially:
- Nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide)
- Alpha-blockers (used for blood pressure or prostate issues)
- Other ED medications (e.g., tadalafil, vardenafil)
- Ritonavir or other HIV protease inhibitors
- Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- Blood pressure medications
Administration & Storage:
- Take Sildenafil exactly as prescribed. For ED, typically 30–60 minutes before sexual activity.
- Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours.
- Can be taken with or without food, but high-fat meals may delay effectiveness.
- Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Do not stop or adjust your medication without consulting your healthcare provider. Contact your provider if you experience side effects or have any concerns about your treatment.