Sildenafil Citrate : Uses, Dosage, Precautions

Sildenafil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It is also sold under the brand name Viagra. Sildenafil belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by increasing blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection. Here is what you need to know about sildenafil use, side effects, precautions, and dosage.

Use

Sildenafil is used to treat ED, which is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It is not a cure for ED, but it can help men achieve and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated. Sildenafil is not intended for use in women or children.

Sildenafil is usually taken 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. The medication should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider. Sildenafil should not be taken more than once per day.

Side Effects

Like all medications, sildenafil can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Flushing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Upset stomach
• Back pain
• Muscle aches
• Vision changes, such as blurred vision or sensitivity to light

Most side effects of sildenafil are mild and go away within a few hours. However, if you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Vision loss in one or both eyes
• Hearing loss or ringing in the ears

Precautions

Sildenafil should be used with caution in certain situations. Before taking sildenafil, inform your healthcare provider if you have any of the following conditions:

• Heart disease or a history of heart attack or stroke
• Low or high blood pressure
• Liver or kidney disease
• Blood cell disorders, such as sickle cell anemia or leukemia
• Eye problems, such as retinitis pigmentosa
• Stomach ulcers
• Allergies to medications

Sildenafil should not be taken with certain medications, such as nitrates or alpha-blockers, as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Sildenafil should also not be taken with grapefruit juice, as this can increase the levels of sildenafil in the blood and increase the risk of side effects.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose of sildenafil is 50mg, taken as needed 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. The dose may be increased to 100mg or decreased to 25mg, depending on how well the medication works and how well the person tolerates it.

Sildenafil should not be taken more than once per day. It should be taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. If taken with a high-fat meal, the absorption of sildenafil may be delayed, and the medication may be less effective.

Conclusion

Sildenafil is a medication used to treat ED in men. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection. Sildenafil is generally safe and effective, but it can cause side effects in some people. Sildenafil should be used with caution in certain situations and should not be taken with certain medications. If you are experiencing ED, talk to your healthcare provider about whether sildenafil is right for you and what dosage is appropriate.