Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is treated with the medicine Sildenafil. It is a PDE5 inhibitor that boosts blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.

This increased blood flow helps men achieve and maintain an erection.

Sildenafil is also prescribed for other conditions, such as Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH).

Sildenafil is available as a tablet and consumed orally. Viagra and Revatio brands sell it.

The medication is generally safe and effective when used as directed by a healthcare provider.

Let’s determine when and how to take Sildenafil for the best results, the correct dosage, and some common side effects.

How to take Sildenafil

The best way to take Sildenafil — Use of pill

You should take Sildenafil (Viagra) as per your doctor’s advice.

You may take it on an empty stomach or after a light meal, as high-fat meals can reduce the absorption rate and delay its effects.

It gives the medication time to take effect and makes you feel comfortable and relaxed.

Take it with water and do not chew, break, or split the medicine.

Your doctor will provide instructions on how to take Sildenafil for your ED symptoms.

Discover how certain foods can interact negatively with Viagra for optimal safety and effectiveness in this article– Know All About Beverages and Foods to Avoid When Taking Viagra

Sildenafil dosage: how much should you take

The prescribed starting dosage of Sildenafil (Viagra) for Erectile Dysfunction is 50mg. You can take it 30 minutes to an hour before intercourse.

Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose based on how you respond to the medication. But you must take only one dose per day.

For those taking Sildenafil for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), the recommended dose is usually 20mg. You may take it three times a day, about 4-6 hours apart.

Your doctor will give you the right instructions on how much to take based on your condition.

Sildenafil is sold under the brand name Revatio to treat PAH. To understand how Revatio contrasts with Viagra, read this article– Revatio vs Viagra At A Glance

Glossary

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart, leading to potential heart failure.

When to take Sildenafil for best results

The best time to take Sildenafil — Happy man

Taking Sildenafil (Viagra) at the right time is key for optimal results.

If prescribed Sildenafil for ED, you should take it about 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity.

The medication typically lasts about 4-5 hours, so planning is essential.

When taking Sildenafil for PAH, the dosage and timing will depend on the severity of the condition and other factors.

PAH is characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries supplying the lungs. Sildenafil can help reduce this pressure and improve exercise capacity in people with PAH.

Follow your doctor’s directions on how to take Sildenafil (Viagra) for maximum benefits.

For more in-depth exploration of this topic, refer to this article– How to Use Viagra For Best Results? Know What to Avoid

Sildenafil: precautions and interactions

When taking Sildenafil, remember a few things to ensure its effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects.

Firstly, it’s important to take Sildenafil exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

When taking Sildenafil, avoiding heavy meals or fatty foods is best.

Avoid drinking alcohol or grapefruit juice, which can increase the risk of side effects of Sildenafil.

Be aware of potential drug interactions. Sildenafil may interact with certain medications, such as Nitrates or alpha-blockers.

Do not use it if you have certain medical conditions or take nitrates or alpha-blockers.

Warning

Nitrates work by relaxing blood vessels to increase blood flow. Alpha-blockers work by relaxing specific muscles and blood vessels.
You should not take nitrates and alpha-blockers with Sildenafil because they can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. You should take Sildenafil only under medical supervision.

Sildenafil side effects: what to watch out for

While Sildenafil is generally considered safe and effective for most men with ED or PAH, there are potential side effects.

Common side effects of Sildenafil (Viagra) include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion. These side effects are usually mild and temporary and typically subside as the medication wears off.

More severe side effects, although rare, can include

Sudden vision loss
Hearing loss
Chest pain
A painful erection may last longer than 4 hours (known as Priapism).

If you see any side effects or have concerns about taking Sildenafil, speak with your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your dose or recommend alternative ED treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to take Sildenafil?

Sildenafil should be taken with water. Be mindful not to break, chew, or split the medicine while consuming it. You can take it on an empty stomach or after a light meal.

Can I take Sildenafil if I’m on other medications?

Sildenafil may interact with certain medications, such as nitrates or alpha-blockers.
Make sure to inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking before starting Sildenafil.

What to do if you have side effects from Sildenafil?

If your side effects are mild, they disappear in a few hours. Rest it out if you have symptoms like headaches, flushing, indigestion, etc.
But you should seek medical help if you experience severe side effects such as vision or hearing loss, chest pain, or Priapism.

How often can I take Sildenafil?

It’s important not to take more than one dose of Sildenafil per day. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose based on how you respond to the medication. And you must not exceed the maximum recommended dose.

Can I take Sildenafil if I have underlying medical conditions?

Sildenafil may be unsafe for those with medical conditions like severe heart or liver problems. Inform your doctor of any underlying medical conditions you have before starting Sildenafil.

Citations:
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