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Sildenafil

Brand Names

; Viagra®

Therapeutic Categories

Phosphodiesterase Enzyme Inhibitor

Reasons not to take this medicine

• If you have an allergy to sildenafil or any other part of the medicine.
• If you taking any nitrates.

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is used for the treatment of impotence.

How does it work?

• Sildenafil affects response to stimulation. It strengthens the response to a chemical produced by the body and then allows relaxation and increased blood flow to the penis.

How is it best taken?

• Best if taken 1 hour before sexual activity. Can be taken 30 minutes to 4 hours before.
• Only take as needed, not on a daily basis.
• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice when using this medicine.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• This medicine is taken on an as needed basis only. Take as directed by healthcare provider.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. Many medicines do not mix well with this medicine.
• Do not use this medicine if you are taking a nitrate (nitroglycerin tablets, spray, or patch or isosorbide).
• Avoid alcohol (includes wine, beer, and liquor). May be another cause of impotence.
• Use caution if you have heart disease, especially if you get chest pain with a little exertion.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; or any other symptoms involved.
• This medicine does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Take measures to prevent the spread of these diseases. Talk with healthcare provider if help needed in choosing a method.
• Do not use with other impotence medicines.

What are the common side effects of this medicine?

• Headache. Mild pain medicine may help.
• Flushing.

What should I monitor?

• Effectiveness of medicine. If not working, then talk with healthcare provider for other choices.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Severe headache.
• Chest pain or pressure, passing out, fainting, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
• If erection lasts for longer than 4 hours (severe damage may occur).

How should I store this medicine?

• Store in a tight container at room temperature.

General statements

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, herbal/supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physician assistant).
• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter or natural products (herbs, vitamins).