Sildenafil Citrate – CVS Pharmacy
How to use
Before beginning your treatment with sildenafil, ensure that you thoroughly read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use, which should be available from your pharmacist. It is important to review this information every time you receive a refill of your medication, as new updates or changes may occur. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of sildenafil or its potential effects, do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. For those taking sildenafil to treat high blood pressure in the lungs, you are generally advised to take this medication orally, either with or without food, as specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. This typically involves taking the medication three times a day. Make sure to shake the bottle well for at least ten seconds prior to each dose to ensure the medication is properly mixed. It is crucial to measure your dosage carefully using a specialized measuring device or spoon provided by your pharmacist; never use a standard household spoon, as this might lead to an inaccurate dosage. The prescribed dosage of sildenafil may be determined based on various factors, including your specific medical condition, your response to the medication, and any other medications you may currently be taking. It is essential to disclose to your doctor and pharmacist all products you are utilizing, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements, to avoid any potential interactions. If the medication is being prescribed for a child, proper dosing will also depend on the child's weight. Remember, it is vital to adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and schedule; do not increase or decrease your dose or take this medication more frequently than recommended. Doing so will not improve your condition any faster, but it may heighten the risk of experiencing side effects. Avoid mixing this medication with any other substances or liquids without first consulting your healthcare provider. To maximize the benefits of this medication, it’s advisable to take it at the same times each day to help establish a routine that aids in remembering. If you notice that your condition does not improve or begins to worsen, promptly inform your doctor so they can reassess your treatment plan.
Precautions
Prior to initiating treatment with sildenafil, it is imperative that you inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have experienced any allergic reactions to it or if you have any other allergies that may impact your treatment plan. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that could potentially trigger allergic reactions or lead to other complications. For further details regarding the composition of the product, consult with your pharmacist. Additionally, it is important to discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider before using this medication, particularly if you have a history of heart-related issues such as a heart attack or any life-threatening irregularities in heartbeat within the past six months, chest pain or angina, or heart failure. Also disclose any instances of stroke that occurred within the last six months, high or low blood pressure levels, dehydration, or any conditions affecting the penis such as angulation, fibrosis/scarring, or Peyronie’s disease. If you have previously experienced a painful or prolonged erection (priapism), or have conditions that may elevate the risk of priapism, including sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or multiple myeloma, these should also be communicated to your healthcare provider. Furthermore, report any eye problems, particularly retinitis pigmentosa, sudden changes in vision, or conditions like NAION. Pre-existing lung conditions, such as pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, should also be discussed with your healthcare provider. Be aware that this drug may cause dizziness or lead to vision disturbances; substances like alcohol or marijuana can further amplify dizziness. It is advised to avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require full alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can do so safely. Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages, and if you are currently using marijuana, make sure to inform your doctor. Before undergoing any surgical procedures, including dental work, it is critical to inform your doctor or dentist about all the medications and supplements you are using, including any prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal remedies. During pregnancy, sildenafil should only be utilized when clearly necessary and prescribed by a healthcare provider. Given the serious implications of high blood pressure in the lungs for both the pregnant woman and her unborn child, it is not advisable to discontinue this medication without explicit instructions from your doctor. If you are planning to become pregnant, are currently pregnant, or suspect you may be pregnant, promptly discuss the potential benefits and risks of continuing this treatment with your healthcare provider. Additionally, be aware that sildenafil can pass into breast milk, so it is essential to consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Storage
The storage requirements for sildenafil may vary between different brands of the medication. Therefore, it is advisable to check the product packaging for specific instructions regarding the proper storage conditions for your particular brand, or alternatively, you may seek guidance from your pharmacist. Always keep all medications securely out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse. Never flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless given specific instructions to do so by your healthcare provider. In order to maintain safety and environmental integrity, ensure that you properly dispose of this product once it has expired or is no longer necessary for your treatment. For assistance with safe disposal methods, it is recommended to consult your pharmacist or your local waste disposal company for guidance on how to discard medications responsibly.