1. What is Sildenafil Citrate?
Description
Sildenafil Citrate, often recognized by its brand name, Viagra, is a white, powdery substance primarily prescribed for erectile dysfunction (ED). It also treats pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The appropriate dosage and administration depend on the medical condition being treated.
- Chemical Formula: C_22H_30N_6O_4S•C_6H_8O_7
Available Forms
- Tablets: Blue, diamond-shaped pills are the most common form.
- Liquid: For oral administration.
- Injectable: Administered intravenously.
How it Works
For ED: Sildenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor. It stops PDE5 from breaking down cGMP, a compound that relaxes blood vessels.
- During sexual arousal, nitric oxide (NO) is released.
- NO triggers cGMP production.
- cGMP expands blood vessels in the penis, enabling an erection.
- Sildenafil sustains the erection by preserving cGMP.
For PAH: Sildenafil also inhibits PDE5 in lung tissue.
- PAH elevates lung artery pressure.
- Sildenafil boosts cGMP in lung tissue.
- This dilates lung blood vessels, lowering pressure.
- It eases PAH symptoms like shortness of breath.
Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
2. Dosage and Administration – Simplified
A physician will consider various factors to recommend the appropriate dosage.
Factors Influencing Dosage
- Age: Older individuals may require lower doses.
- Severity of Condition: A higher or lower dose may be needed depending on severity.
- Kidney and Liver Health: Physician may adjust dosage based on the condition of these organs.
Dosages Recommended by a Physician
- For ED: 50 mg orally, adjusted as needed.
- For PAH: 20 mg orally three times a day or 10 mg intravenously three times a day.
3. Sildenafil Citrate Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Facial flushing
- Upset stomach
Less Common, but Severe Side Effects
- Hearing loss
- Nosebleeds
- Difficulty breathing
Full list of side effects for Sildenafil. Consult your doctor for any concerns about side effects.
4. Warnings and Precautions
Risks for Specific Organs
- Liver: Smaller dose may be prescribed.
- Heart: Physician will assess risks carefully.
- Kidneys: May require dosage adjustment.
Contraindications
- Allergies to Sildenafil
- Taking nitrate medications
- Specific medical conditions affecting heart, liver, or kidneys
5. Drug Interactions
Interactions with certain medications can be hazardous. Always consult a physician regarding other medications you’re taking.
- Nitrates: Dangerous blood pressure drop
- Alpha-Blockers: Can lower blood pressure
- Antifungals: Increased risks
6. Additional Uses and Future Directions
Besides treating ED and PAH, Sildenafil has other potential applications that are still under study.
7. Key Warnings
Special Cases
- High Blood Pressure: Consult your physician before using.
- Liver/Kidney Disease: May require dosage adjustment.
- Diabetes: May present higher risks.
Emergency Scenarios
- Priapism: Seek immediate medical help.
- Vision Loss: Stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
- Hearing Loss: Immediate medical attention is necessary.
8. Sildenafil Citrate FAQs
Q1: Can I buy Sildenafil over-the-counter?
No, a physician must prescribe it after evaluating your condition.
Q2: Is Sildenafil for women too?
Primarily for men, but some studies explore its use in women. Consult a healthcare provider.
Q3: Missed a dose?
Consult your physician. Avoid doubling the dosage.
Q4: Can I drink alcohol with Sildenafil?
Consult a healthcare provider; alcohol may increase side effects.
Q5: Time for Sildenafil to work?
Generally effective within 30 minutes to 1 hour. Specifics from a physician.
Q6: Food impact?
Food may delay effectiveness. Guidance from a healthcare provider is advised.
Q7: Are generics available?
Yes, but consult your physician before switching.
Q8: Recreational use?
Not recommended; it’s for specific medical conditions. Consult a physician.
Q9: Natural alternatives?
Natural alternatives Claims exist but lack universal scientific support. Consult a healthcare provider.
Q10: Severe side effects?
Seek immediate medical help for symptoms like chest pain or vision loss.
Q11: Effective for premature ejaculation?
Not approved for this use. Consult your healthcare provider.
Q12: Storage?
Cool, dry place, away from sunlight. For more details, consult a healthcare provider.
8. References:
- Drugs Approved by Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation: Drug Name, Strength, Indication. Available online:
- Sildenafil: MedlinePlus Drug Information. Available online:
- Sildenafil Interactions: Drugs.com. Available online:
- Sildenafil (Oral Route) Side Effects: Mayoclinic.org. Available online:
- Definition & Facts for Erectile Dysfunction: niddk.nih.gov. Available online:
9. Disclaimer:
At Medzpills, it is our mission to provide consumers with the best possible, scientifically-backed, and expert-reviewed information. Parry Stone, an expert in the field has reviewed this article, but we caution you that it should not be treated as a substitute for the advice of a qualified medical professional. It is a source of knowledge, potentially helpful in understanding health conditions, lab tests, medications, side effects, drug interactions, warnings, alerts, and more. To ensure the best experience and outcome, we strongly encourage you to consult with your doctor and discuss any concerns or questions you have about a particular disease or medication. Our services are meant to supplement, not replace, the invaluable relationship between doctor and patient.