100mg Sildenafil White Tablets: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Interactions - WebMD
What is 100mg sildenafil used for?
100mg sildenafil white tablets are commonly prescribed for the following conditions:
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED): A condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. The prevalence of ED varies, with studies indicating that it can affect 30 million men in the U.S.
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): A severe condition characterized by high blood pressure in the blood vessels that supply the lungs, leading to increased strain on the heart.
Sildenafil may also be utilized for additional conditions as determined by your healthcare professional. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure this medication is appropriate for your specific health needs.
How does 100mg sildenafil work (mechanism of action)?
100mg sildenafil works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), leading to the relaxation of blood vessels in the penis and increasing blood flow during sexual arousal. This mechanism helps in achieving and maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual performance. For those suffering from PAH, sildenafil facilitates the lowering of blood pressure within the pulmonary arteries, thereby alleviating strain on the heart and improving exercise capacity.
How is 100mg sildenafil supplied (dosage forms)?
Available Brands:
- Viagra
- Revatio
Dosage forms and strengths:
- 100 mg oral tablets
- 50 mg oral tablets
How should I store 100mg sildenafil?
Oral Tablet: Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F). Keep away from moisture and light to preserve the medication's efficacy.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of 100mg sildenafil?
Common side effects may include:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Upset stomach
- Nasal congestion
- Vision changes (e.g., color tinting or blurred vision)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
What are the serious side effects of 100mg sildenafil?
Serious side effects may include:
- Prolonged erection (priapism) lasting longer than four hours, which requires immediate medical attention.
- Severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing or swelling.
- Sudden vision loss or hearing loss, which may indicate a more significant issue requiring prompt evaluation.
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these serious side effects, as they may pose serious health risks.
Warnings & Precautions
Who should not take 100mg sildenafil?
Allergies: Individuals with a known allergy to sildenafil or any of its components should avoid this medication. Always verify with your doctor if you have had an adverse reaction in the past.
Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, dietary supplements, or herbal products you are currently using, especially:
- Nitrates (often prescribed for chest pain)
- Guanylate cyclase stimulators (used for PAH)
- Other PDE5 inhibitors
What should I know before taking 100mg sildenafil?
It's crucial only to take sildenafil if it has been prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider. Follow their directions meticulously to ensure safe and effective use. Avoid sharing this medication with others, as it may not be suitable for their health conditions, and keep it away from children.
Interactions
Does 100mg sildenafil interact with foods or drinks?
Consuming sildenafil after a high-fat meal can delay its onset of action. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may increase sildenafil blood levels, leading to a higher risk of side effects. It is advisable to maintain a consistent pattern of food intake related to sildenafil usage.
Does 100mg sildenafil interact with other medicines?
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking. Special caution should be taken if you are using:
- Nitrates
- Alpha-blockers
- Blood pressure medications
Overdose/Missed Dose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much sildenafil?
If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center for guidance on next steps.
What should I do if I miss a dose of sildenafil?
Erectile Dysfunction: For on-demand use, take as prescribed, typically 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity. Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: If you miss a scheduled dose, take it promptly unless it is nearly time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.