Important Info about Sildenafil
Important Safety Information for Sildenafil:
What is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain an erection during sexual arousal. Sildenafil is also used in some cases to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), but always under a doctor’s guidance.
Sildenafil is not intended for use by women or children and should only be taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Who should not use Sildenafil?
Do not use Sildenafil if:
- You are taking medications called nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) for chest pain. Combining Sildenafil with nitrates can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- You are using guanylate cyclase (GC) stimulators like riociguat for pulmonary hypertension.
- You are allergic to sildenafil or any of its ingredients.
Always consult your doctor if you are unsure whether Sildenafil is safe for you.
How should I take Cialis®?
Sildenafil should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor:
- As-needed use: Take one tablet about 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. The effects can last up to 4–6 hours, giving you enough flexibility for intimacy.
- Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours.
- Take Sildenafil on an empty stomach or after a light meal, as a heavy or fatty meal can delay its effectiveness.
Do not mix Sildenafil with other erectile dysfunction medications or over-the-counter products for ED.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Sildenafil?
Before starting Sildenafil, share your complete medical history and all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and vitamins. Be sure to mention if you:
- Have a history of heart problems, such as angina, heart attack, or irregular heartbeat.
- Have high or low blood pressure.
- Experience prolonged or painful erections (priapism).
- Have kidney or liver disease, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
- Have a history of vision problems, including retinitis pigmentosa or non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
- Are taking alpha-blockers, antihypertensive medications, or other drugs that may interact with Sildenafil and cause a drop in blood pressure.
Providing accurate and complete information will help your doctor determine if Sildenafil is right for you.
What are the most serious side effects?
The most serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. These include:
Prolonged erections: An erection lasting more than 4 hours can cause permanent damage and needs urgent care.
Vision problems: Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes may indicate NAION. Stop using Sildenafil and seek immediate medical attention.
Hearing loss: Sudden hearing loss, often accompanied by ringing in the ears or dizziness, requires prompt evaluation.
Heart-related symptoms: Stop sexual activity and seek emergency care if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness.
These side effects are usually mild and temporary. If they persist or worsen, consult your doctor.
What are the most common side effects?
Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Indigestion
- Nasal congestion
- Dizziness
- Vision changes, such as a blue tint to your vision or blurred vision
These side effects are generally mild and temporary. Contact your doctor if they persist or worsen
Additional safety information
Sildenafil does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use protection and practice safe sex. Avoid consuming excessive alcohol, as it may reduce the effectiveness of Sildenafil and increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or fainting.
If you miss a dose for PAH treatment, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double doses to make up for a missed one.
Reporting side effects
To report side effects in the Philippines, contact the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through their Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Reporting System or call +63 2-8809-5596.
For full prescribing information and additional details, visit the Philippine FDA website.
