It's crucial to take sildenafil exactly as advised by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist. Following their instructions carefully will greatly enhance the effectiveness of the medication and ensure your safety.
Dosage and strength for erectile dysfunction
Sildenafil tablets for erectile dysfunction are available in various strengths, specifically ranging from 25mg to 100mg. This variety allows for personalized treatment options to suit individual patient needs and preferences.
The typical recommended dose is 50mg, taken only when needed. Please ensure not to exceed the maximum dosage of one tablet per day, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Depending on how sildenafil affects you, the dose may be increased to 100mg or decreased to 25mg, always under your doctor's guidance. Adjusting the dose should only be done after consulting your healthcare provider.
It is suggested to take sildenafil up to 4 hours before engaging in sexual activity. For the medication to be effective, sexual stimulation is also necessary, as it enhances the medication's action.
Dosage and strength for pulmonary hypertension
For the treatment of pulmonary hypertension, sildenafil tablets are available in strengths of 10mg and 20mg. These options provide tailored treatment plans for patients suffering from this condition.
The usual prescribed adult dose is 20mg taken three times daily. It's essential to maintain this schedule for optimal therapeutic benefit.
In children, doses may vary from 10mg to 20mg also taken three times a day, tailored to their weight. Careful monitoring and adherence to dosing frequency are crucial, so never exceed three doses in one day.
How to take tablets
To take the sildenafil tablets, swallow them whole with a generous amount of water or juice (note: avoid grapefruit juice, as it can interact with the medication).
For optimal results in treating erectile dysfunction, it's preferable to take sildenafil on an empty stomach, as food can delay its absorption and effectiveness.
How to take liquid
When taking sildenafil in liquid form, note that 1ml is typically equivalent to a 10mg tablet, but always verify the specific details on the medicine label to ensure accurate dosing.
Your pharmacist will usually prepare the liquid version of sildenafil for you. They will ensure it meets the necessary safety standards and dosage requirements.
The liquid medication will come with a measuring device such as a plastic syringe or spoon to ensure you take the correct dosage. If you don't have this device, request one from your pharmacist instead of using a kitchen spoon, which is not precise.
If you forget to take it
If you have pulmonary hypertension and realize you've missed a dose of sildenafil, take the missed dose as soon as you can unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and just continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Under no circumstances should you take two doses at once, nor should you take an extra dose to compensate for one you forgot. Safety must always take precedence.
If you find that you frequently forget to take your medication, setting an alarm or reminder may be beneficial. Additionally, discussing this issue with your pharmacist could provide further strategies to help improve your adherence to the prescribed regimen.
If you take too much
Taking an excessive amount of sildenafil can lead to a range of unpleasant and potentially serious side effects that warrant immediate attention.
If you suspect you have taken too much sildenafil and are experiencing distress, it is vital to consult your doctor or a healthcare professional regarding your symptoms to determine the appropriate course of action.
- headaches
- dizziness
- indigestion
- blocked nose
- changes to your vision