Sildenafil Dosage Guide

Reviewed by Dr Bhavini Shah

Sildenafil is a well-known medication commonly prescribed for erectile dysfunction (ED), making it a first-line treatment for men who struggle with achieving an erection independently. As a generic alternative to Viagra, it contains the same active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, ensuring that it functions effectively in the same manner. In fact, many men turn to Sildenafil when they encounter difficulties with sexual performance, making it a vital option in the realm of men's health.

Available in three distinct dosages, namely 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg, Sildenafil can be tailored to meet individual needs. If you’re contemplating taking Sildenafil but are uncertain which dosage will suit you best, continue reading to explore your options.

Sildenafil dosage guide

Getting treatment for erectile dysfunction

Experiencing difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection is a concern that should prompt a consultation with your healthcare provider. Understanding the underlying causes of erectile dysfunction is essential, as it may indicate more serious health issues that require attention. As Dr. Neel Patel states, “if you continually face ED and find that it impacts your self-esteem or sexual relationships, seeking medical guidance could prove beneficial. While infrequent, ED can sometimes stem from substantial health concerns such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.”

If deemed appropriate, your doctor may suggest a treatment plan that includes medication like Sildenafil, alongside essential lifestyle modifications. Among the available dosages, the 50mg and 100mg options are frequently prescribed as they tend to balance efficacy and tolerability for most patients.

Available Sildenafil doses

Sildenafil is offered in three specific strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. As the dosage increases, the intensity of its effects typically heightens; however, this may also correlate with a higher likelihood of experiencing side effects. Your healthcare provider will help determine the most suitable and safe dosage for your individual health profile.

Here’s a breakdown of the available doses:

What is the maximum dose of Sildenafil?

The highest prescribed dosage of Sildenafil is 100mg. As this represents the maximum strength available, it's critical that you avoid taking more than one tablet within a 24-hour span.

“Depending on your specific health conditions and how effectively Sildenafil works for you, your doctor may recommend a lower or higher dosage. It's crucial to adhere to the guidelines provided for your dosage." - Dr Bhavini Shah

What dose of Sildenafil should I take?

The initial recommended dosage for most patients is usually 50mg, which is often considered optimal given its effectiveness for a majority of men. Your individual prescription may differ based on factors such as age, medical history, current medications, kidney function, and body mass index (BMI). Your healthcare provider will assess your unique situation to prescribe the most appropriate dose tailored for you.

Taking Sildenafil 25mg

In some instances, your doctor might suggest starting with the 25mg dosage of Sildenafil, particularly if you're more susceptible to side effects or have certain health conditions that warrant caution. It's worth noting that while lower doses may still produce side effects, they are typically less severe.

How to take Sildenafil 25mg:

• Take a single tablet approximately one hour before planned sexual activity
• Ensure that you are sexually stimulated, as Sildenafil requires arousal to be effective
• Do not exceed one dose in a 24-hour period

Sildenafil 25mg didn’t work for me. What should I do?

If the 25mg dose doesn't yield the desired results, first verify that you are indeed sexually stimulated. Remember, Sildenafil will not be effective without that sufficient level of arousal. Additionally, consider moderating your alcohol intake prior to consumption, as excessive drinking can hinder effectiveness.

If Sildenafil 25mg does not meet your expectations, you may want to:

• Try taking Sildenafil 25mg again; medical professionals often recommend trying ED medications about eight times prior to changing treatments or escalating the dosage.
• Consult with your doctor about possibly increasing the dosage or reach out to us through your Patient Record.
• Consider a different ED treatment option if necessary; discuss alternatives with your doctor.

Taking Sildenafil 50mg

The 50mg dosage is the most frequently prescribed strength of Sildenafil. If you are utilizing this medication for the first time concerning erectile dysfunction, there is a high likelihood this is the dosage you will receive.

Follow these guidelines when using Sildenafil 50mg:

• Only take one tablet at any given time
• Administer the tablet one hour prior to anticipated sexual activity
• Avoid consuming a heavy meal before taking the medication
• Limit alcohol intake to one or two units before taking Sildenafil
• Do not exceed one tablet in a 24-hour window

Sildenafil 50mg didn’t work for me. What should I do?

In clinical studies, Sildenafil 50mg demonstrated effectiveness in 74% of men facing erectile dysfunction, suggesting a reasonable chance of success for users. However, if this dosage does not produce the desired outcome, here are some steps to consider:

1. Attempt Sildenafil on seven additional occasions, ensuring you follow the recommended instructions accurately (medical professionals typically advise trying any ED medication eight times before modifying the dosage or switching treatments).
2. If you continue to experience difficulties, consult the prescribing doctor about a potential increase to a 100mg dosage. If you placed your order with us, please send a message through your Patient Record.
3. Explore the possibility of trying an alternate ED medication such as Cialis.

It’s important to never adjust your Sildenafil dosage without discussing it with your healthcare provider first.

Taking Sildenafil 100mg

In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe you the 100mg dosage of Sildenafil initially. Though starting on the 50mg dosage is more common, some patients may begin directly at 100mg if previous treatment options have not been effective.

When taking Sildenafil 100mg, administer it in the same manner as the lower dosages: one hour before sexual activity and ensure you have an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Although the clinical efficacy of 100mg was found to be 82%, compared to 74% for the 50mg, the duration of effect remains similar. However, the effects of the 100mg dose may feel more intense.

Be mindful that side effects associated with Sildenafil can be heightened at this dosage. Possible side effects include:

• Headache
• Facial flushing
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Stuffy nose

While these side effects do not affect everyone, they are more commonly reported at this higher dosage.

Sildenafil 100mg didn’t work for me. What should I do?

If you find that Sildenafil 100mg is ineffective, it's important to have an open dialogue with your prescribing physician. They may advise you to try the medication a few more times to assess its effectiveness.

Since 100mg is the upper limit for dosing, you must never attempt to take more than one tablet within a 24-hour period. If it proves ineffective, consider discussing alternative ED treatments with your doctor for better results.

How long does Sildenafil last?

When successful, the effects of Sildenafil 50mg can endure for approximately 4 to 6 hours. During this time frame, it provides the ability to achieve an erection in response to sexual arousal.

It’s worth mentioning that the length of time for which the effects last is independent of the dosage taken, and Sildenafil will not influence your stamina during sexual activities. Additionally, remember that Sildenafil, like all ED medications, will only work in conjunction with sexual arousal; it is not a standalone aphrodisiac.

Alternative erectile dysfunction treatments

Should Sildenafil not prove effective for you, there are several alternative treatment options available. Collaborating with your healthcare provider is crucial to determine which alternative may suit you best.

Various treatments for ED may incorporate different active ingredients yet yield similar outcomes to what Sildenafil can achieve. Considered alternatives include:

• Cialis
• Tadalafil
• Spedra
• Vardenafil
• Vitaros ED cream

In situations where the cause of your ED is psychological, counseling could provide valuable assistance. Alternatively, issues stemming from physical injuries or underlying medical conditions might see improvement through targeted treatment or healthy lifestyle adjustments, including weight management and exercise.

To learn more about Sildenafil and its efficacy, consult our online clinic for further guidance.

Conclusion

Sildenafil is offered in three distinct dosages – 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. When taken around an hour prior to sexual activity, it can aid men suffering from erectile dysfunction in achieving and maintaining an erection. The appropriate dosage will depend on several factors specific to each individual. To get started, initiate your online consultation today, and our medical professionals will ensure it is safe and suitable for your needs.

References

www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine/30907