Sildenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence; inability to get or keep an erection) in men by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.
Sildenafil is used to improve the ability to exercise in adults and children 1 year of age and older with pulmonary arterial hypertension PAH( high blood pressure in the vessels carrying blood to the lungs, causing shortness of breath, dizziness, and tiredness).Sildenafil treats PAH by relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs to allow blood to flow easily.
Sildenafil is in a class of medications called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors.
It does not cure erectile dysfunction or increase sexual desire. Sildenafil does not prevent pregnancy or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Directions for use
The best time to take sildenafil is about 1 hour before sexual activity, but you can take the medication any time from 4 hours to 30 minutes before sexual activity. Sildenafil usually should not be taken more than once every 24 hours. You can take sildenafil with or without food. However, if you take sildenafil with a high-fat meal, it will take longer for the medication to start to work.
If you are taking sildenafil to treat PAH, you will probably take sildenafil three times a day with or without food. Take sildenafil at around the same times every day.
Precautions
Before taking sildenafil, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart problems, stroke in the past 6 months, kidney disease, liver disease, high or low blood pressure, dehydration, penis conditions, history of painful/prolonged erection (priapism), conditions that may increase the risk of priapism (such as sickle cell anemia, ETC) or eye problems.
This drug may make you dizzy or cause vision problems. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
