In this blog we have discussed Sildenafil Side-effects, Uses, Dosage, Mechanism of Action and Interaction.
It is one of the most commonly used medicine for erectile dysfunction.
We have shared some precautionary measures and some tips to follow to make Sildenafil most effective.
What is Sildenafil? And Why it’s used
Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor which is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
This medicine prevents an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type-5 from acting too fast. The penis is one of the areas where this enzyme works.
Sildenafil works on the PDE5 enzyme in the penis to relax the blood vessels.
This increases the blood flow to penis and help achieve an erection in response to sexual stimulation.
It is also commonly sold under the brand name Viagra.
How to take Sildenafil?
Consult your doctor before taking this medicine because there is rare but severe side-effects and drug interaction with other medicines.
To treat erectile dysfunction-ED, take this drug by mouth as directed by your doctor.
How long before sex should I use sildenafil?
It is recommended to take sildenafil at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours, before sexual activity. 1 hour before is the most effective. But remember, do not take more than once daily.
A high fat meal can delay the action of the medicine. So, take light meal while you are planning to take sildenafil.
Do not take this medication without doctor’s prescription especially when you are taking medicine for heart disease. Taking sildenafil with nitrate medicine can suddenly and severely decrease your blood pressure.
It is usually taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity
Sildenafil Side-effects:
There are many sildenafil side-effects like chest pain, blood pressure changes, stomach ulcer, liver or kidney problems.
Below mentioned are the two side effects that you should remember if you are taking sildenafil because these problems need immediate medical attention.
- If your erection is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours. In medical term we call it priapism. It can damage the penis.
– What is Priapism?
It is a very painful condition where blood get trapped in the penis and unable to drain through penile vessels. Remember that it is a medical emergency.
– How to treat Priapism?
You can apply ice packs on the penis and perineum. If the priapism is non-ischemic in nature, there is a chance that it will go away.
However, most of the time it is ischemic in nature and the pain get worse with time. In that situation immediately visit or consult a doctor.
2. If you have sudden vision loss.
Seek immediate medical attention if you face this type of sildenafil side-effects
Also, if you are a heavy drinker then you should make a note of this point:
Effect of alcohol on Sildenafil:
If you like a glass of wine or any alcoholic bevrages then there shouldn’t be any problem
But drinking more than that after taking Viagra could hamper your activity.
Moderate to heavy drinking can make it harder for you to get an erection. Also, Viagra can lower blood pressure. Combining it with alcohol can increase this effect.
Sildenafil may interact with other medications
1. If you are also taking an alpha blocker medication (such as doxazosin, tamsulosin) to treat an enlarged prostate or high blood pressure, your blood pressure may get too low which can lead to dizziness or fainting.
2. Some other anti fungal, antibiotic and antiviral medications can also interact with sildenafil. So consult your doctor before taking sildenafil if you are already on other medicines.
What should you avoid when taking Sildenafil?
If you have a previous history of allergy by taking this medicine then you should not take it again.
If you have a history of painful erection then strictly avoid this medicine
There are other conditions where you should avoid this medicine like:
- multiple myeloma
- leukemia
- sickle cell anemia
- pigmentary retinopathy
- hearing loss
- significant uncontrolled high blood pressure
- a heart attack
- a sudden worsening of heart related chest pain which is called angina
- narrowing of the aortic heart valve
- hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- life-threatening irregular heart rhythm
- chronic heart failure
- a stroke
- low blood pressure
- liver problems
- severe renal impairment
- Peyronie’s disease and many other conditions.
FAQs
Is Sildenafil same as Viagra?
Yes. Sildenafil oral tablet is sold under brand name Viagra, and Revatio.
What is Sildenafil used for?
Sildenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
How often Can you take Sildenafil?
Sildenafil should be taken once in 24-hour period; however, if you are on other medications then your physician may recommend you take it less than once a day.
Can you take sildenafil with food?
Sildenafil can be taken with and without food. However, a high fat meal can delay the action of this medicine.
Can you take sildenafil if you are under 18?
No. Sildenafil has not been confirmed to be safe or effective in children younger than 18 years.
How does Sildenafil work?
It works by increasing blood flow into the spongy erectile tissue of the penis that consequently allows it to grow in size and become erect and rigid.
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