Where is Sildenafil used?
Sildenafil is a prescription used for the treatment of male sexual function problems called impotence or erectile dysfunction (ED). This is in the class of medications called phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors. Along with sexual stimulation, this drug increases blood flow to the penis to help a man get and keep an erection. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication. Sildenafil comes as a tablet for oral use.
How does Sildenafil work?
Sildenafil helps you get and keep an erection by helping more blood get into your penis once you are sexually stimulated.
An erection is created by a compound chain of actions that involves the nervous system. The release of chemical messengers within the tissues of the penis as well. One of the couriers released when you are aroused is called cyclic GMP. It relaxes and widens the blood vessels in the penis. Wherein, it allows more blood to enter. This causes the penis to get hard and erect. Cyclic GMP is normally broken down by an enzyme in the body called phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5). Sildenafil stops this enzyme from breaking down the cyclic GMP. It permits the blood vessels in the penis to remain dilated for longer which improves blood flow to the penis and helps keep an erection.
Sildenafil will only work once the messenger responsible for producing an erection starts to be produced. Therefore, you have to be sexually aroused for Sildenafil to create and keep an erection. You should be able to get an erection 25 minutes to an hour after taking this drug. It is if you’re stimulated. You should still be able to get an erection for up to five hours after raking a dose.
How is Sildenafil taken?
- Mostly for men, they start to take one 50 mg tablet. You should take a dose about an hour before you plan to have sex.
- You can take Sildenafil either with or without food. But be aware that if you take it with or after a meal, it will take longer to start working.
- Your tablet should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew it.
- Do not take this drug more than once in 24 hours.
- Do not increase your dose without the consent of your doctor.
- Continue to take this drug until the full prescription is done even if symptoms disappear.
What are the possible side effects of Sildenafil?
- Stuffy nose
- Headache
- Back pain
- Upset stomach
- Dizziness
Stop taking this drug and call your doctor if you experience this:
- Vision changes or sudden vision loss
- Erection is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours
What are the precautions in taking Sildenafil?
- Sildenafil makes you feel dizzy or may affect your vision. Therefore, it may affect your capability to drive operate machinery or drive safely. Do not drive until you know how this drug affects you and you are sure it won’t affect your performance.
- While taking this medication, avoid drinking grapefruit juice. It may increase the level of the drug in your blood and it also increases the risks of side effects.
- This should not be taken by people who have conditions in which sexual activity is not advisable. It includes severe heart failure or unstable angina.
- Inform your doctor if you have any current medications including that of vitamins or herbal supplements.
- This is not licensed to use anyone under 18 years of age.
