Sildenafil is a prescription medication mainly used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in both men and women. It belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.

Main Uses

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Helps achieve and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation by increasing blood flow to the penis.
• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Helps relax blood vessels in the lungs, improving blood circulation and reducing strain on the heart.

How It Works?

Sildenafil blocks the PDE5 enzyme, allowing blood vessels to relax and widen. For ED, sexual stimulation is still required for the medicine to work.

Important Precautions

• Do not use sildenafil with nitrate medications (such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide) because it may cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
• Avoid combining it with other PDE5 inhibitors such as:
  • Tadalafil
  • Vardenafil
• Use cautiously in patients with:
  • Heart disease
  • Recent heart attack or stroke
  • Low or high blood pressure
  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Eye disorders such as NAION or retinitis pigmentosa
  • Blood disorders like sickle cell anemia or leukemia

Drug & Food Interactions

Sildenafil may interact with many medications, especially:

• Nitrates
• Blood pressure medications
• Certain antifungals and antibiotics
• HIV medications
• Herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort

Avoid excessive alcohol intake and use caution with:

• Grapefruit juice
• Pomelo juice

Recommended Use

For erectile dysfunction, sildenafil is usually taken:

• About 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity
• Effects may last up to 4 hours
• Usually not taken more than once daily

Always follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage.

Serious Side Effects – Seek Immediate Medical Help

Contact a doctor immediately if you experience:

• Chest pain
• Sudden vision loss
• Sudden hearing loss
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• A painful erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism)

Common Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Flushing
• Nasal congestion
• Indigestion
• Dizziness
• Muscle aches
• Mild vision changes

Patient Disclaimer

This summary is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sildenafil should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of this medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Seek immediate medical attention if serious side effects occur.