20mg Sildenafil: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, and Warnings - WebMD

What is 20mg Sildenafil used for?

20mg Sildenafil is primarily utilized to address a variety of medical conditions, notably:

• Erectile Dysfunction, which refers to a man's inability to achieve or maintain an erection adequate for sexual performance, significantly impacting interpersonal relationships and overall quality of life.
• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, characterized by elevated blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, affecting one's ability to engage in physical activities.

Moreover, healthcare professionals may prescribe Sildenafil for various other conditions based on individual patient needs and clinical judgment.

How does Sildenafil work (mechanism of action)?

As a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, Sildenafil plays a crucial role in enhancing blood flow. During sexual arousal, it promotes vasodilation in the penis, resulting in improved blood circulation, which is essential for achieving and maintaining an erection. In cases where it is used for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, Sildenafil helps to dilate the pulmonary blood vessels, ultimately leading to a reduction in blood pressure and easing the workload on the heart.

How is 20mg Sildenafil supplied (dosage forms)?

Sildenafil is marketed under several brand names, including:

• Viagra
• Revatio

The medication is available in multiple dosage forms:

• 20 mg oral tablets
• Other available strengths: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets.

How should I store Sildenafil?

Oral Tablet: Store at room temperature (between 20°C and 25°C), and ensure it is kept away from moisture. It is advisable to store the medication in a secure, dry location.

Oral Liquid: Maintain at room temperature not exceeding 30°C or refrigerate between 2°C and 8°C. Discard any mixed liquid that has been stored for over 60 days to ensure safety and efficacy.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of 20mg Sildenafil?

Patients may experience a range of common side effects, including:

• Headache
• Flushing (facial warmth or redness)
• Upset stomach or dyspepsia
• Visual disturbances (like a blue tinge to vision or increased sensitivity to light)
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Muscle aches or myalgia

Should any side effects persist or worsen, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.

What are the serious side effects of Sildenafil?

Seek urgent medical assistance if you experience any of the following serious adverse effects:

• Severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing and facial swelling
• Priapism, which is a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours
• Sudden and unexplained vision loss in one or both eyes
• Sudden hearing loss or decrease in hearing
• Symptoms indicative of low blood pressure such as fainting or severe dizziness

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not take 20mg Sildenafil?

Allergic Reactions: Avoid using Sildenafil if you have a known allergy to the active ingredient or any of its inactive components.

Potential Drug Interactions: Always inform your healthcare provider regarding all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as Sildenafil can interact with specific drugs, including nitrates, alpha-blockers, and certain other PDE5 inhibitors.

What should I know before taking Sildenafil?

Consultation: It is vital to have a thorough discussion about your medical history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any of the following conditions:

• Heart-related issues, including angina or a history of heart attacks
• Hypertension or hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure)
• Erectile disorders, particularly Peyronie’s Disease
• Liver or renal complications

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The effects of Sildenafil during pregnancy or lactation are not fully understood; therefore, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Interactions

Does Sildenafil interact with foods or drinks?

It is noted that consuming a high-fat meal may delay the onset of Sildenafil's effects. Additionally, grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be avoided, as they can elevate the risk of side effects due to interactions with the medication.

Does Sildenafil interact with other medications?

Common medications that may lead to interactions with Sildenafil include:

• Nitrates (such as nitroglycerin, often used for angina)
• Alpha-blockers (like tamsulosin, prescribed for prostate issues)
• Some antifungal agents and antibiotics

It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure the safe administration of Sildenafil alongside other medications or treatments.

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Sildenafil?

If an overdose occurs, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention or contact Poison Control at 800-222-1222 for instructions.

What if I miss a dose of Sildenafil?

Erectile Dysfunction: This medication is typically taken as needed before sexual activity. Do not take more than one dose in a 24-hour period.

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: This medication should be taken consistently three times a day. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. If that’s the case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosage schedule. Never take two doses at once to compensate for a missed dose to avoid complications.