Uses
This medication is used to treat male sexual function
problems (erection problems).
How To Take This Medication
This drug is taken by mouth as needed between four
hours and one-half hour before sexual activity (about
one hour before is most effective). Take only as directed,
usually once daily as needed. Sildenafil works along
with sexual stimulation to help achieve an erection.
Side Effects
Headache, flushing, stomach upset, nasal stuffiness,
diarrhea and dizziness might occur. If these effects
persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Precautions
Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical
history, including any allergies (especially drug
allergies), any penis conditions such as fibrosis/scarring,
history of painful/prolonged erection (priapism),
sickle cell anemia, blood system cancers (such as
leukemia or myeloma), or Peyronie's disease, eye problems
(retina diseases). kidney or liver disease, bleeding
disorders or active stomach ulcers, heart diseases,
stroke or severe high or low blood pressure. Limit
alcohol intake, as it may aggravate side effects of
this drug. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness
when rising from a seated or lying position, get up
slowly. The elderly may be more sensitive to the side
effects of this drug, therefore caution is advised
in this group.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription
medication you may use, especially any nitrate medications
(e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate), nitroprusside
(any "nitric oxide donor" medicines), cimetidine,
erythromycin, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole,
ketoconazole), mibefradil, rifamycins (e.g., rifampin)
or high blood pressure medicines.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others, since they
may have a problem that is not effectively treated
by this drug. Use of this drug does not protect against
sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis
B, gonorrhea).
Missed Dosage
Not applicable.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees
F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of
children.