Sildenafil Dosage Guide
Reviewed by Dr Bhavini Shah
Sildenafil, a well-known and widely used medication for treating erectile dysfunction (ED), is taken by men who experience difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection. It is the generic equivalent of Viagra, meaning it shares the same active component, sildenafil citrate, and operates through a comparable mechanism to aid in the erectile process.
This medication comes in three distinct dosages: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. If you are contemplating the use of Sildenafil but are uncertain regarding the appropriate dosage for your needs, it is advisable to continue reading for comprehensive details.
Sildenafil dosage guide
Getting treatment for erectile dysfunction
Experiencing difficulties in achieving and maintaining an erection can significantly impact your quality of life. If you find yourself struggling with these issues, it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional. Erectile dysfunction is not merely a psychological concern; it can be an indication of underlying health conditions that require attention.
Dr Neel Patel emphasizes that “should you frequently encounter ED and notice its adverse effect on your self-esteem or intimate relationships, it could be prudent to seek medical advice. While it is uncommon, ED may signify more serious health challenges such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.”
If your doctor determines that treatment is warranted, they may prescribe a medication like Sildenafil, alongside recommending certain lifestyle modifications. The standard dosages most frequently provided are the Sildenafil 50mg and 100mg options.
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Available Sildenafil doses
Sildenafil is offered in three strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. Notably, higher dosages yield stronger effects, though this may also raise the chances of experiencing side effects. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the dosage they deem to be the most suitable for your circumstances.
Here are the three available dosages:
| Strength | 25mg | 50mg | 100mg |
| Dosage type | Minimum | Standard | Maximum |
| Quantity | One tablet per day | One tablet per day | One tablet per day |
| Price per pack | From £16.00 | From £15.00 | From £25.00 |
What is the maximum dose of Sildenafil?
The apex dosage of Sildenafil is 100mg. As this is the upper limit, you should refrain from consuming more than one tablet within a 24-hour period.
“Your healthcare provider may suggest a dosage that is lower or higher based on your health profile and how effectively Sildenafil is performing for you. Always adhere to the prescribed dosing guidelines. - Dr Bhavini Shah
What dose of Sildenafil should I take?
The typical initial dose recommended is 50mg. This dosage is often advocated due to its efficacy for the majority of men. However, your prescribed dosage may vary based on factors such as your age, medical background, concurrent medications, kidney function, and body mass index (BMI). Your doctor will identify the most appropriate dosage for you tailored to your individual health needs.
Taking Sildenafil 25mg
Your healthcare professional may decide to prescribe you the lower 25mg dosage of Sildenafil. This may be due to a higher likelihood of side effects or particular health considerations, making it safer to initiate treatment with 25mg. Although side effects can still occur at this lower strength, they are generally less severe.
Guidelines for taking Sildenafil 25mg:
- Consume one tablet roughly 60 minutes prior to anticipated sexual activity
- Ensure you are sexually stimulated for Sildenafil to yield results
- Avoid taking more than one dose in a single day
Sildenafil 25mg didn’t work for me. What should I do?
If the 25mg dosage does not produce the anticipated effect, first confirm that you are genuinely sexually aroused, as Sildenafil requires stimulation to be effective. Additionally, be cautious about alcohol intake, as excessive consumption can hinder its effectiveness.
If Sildenafil 25mg proves ineffective, consider the following options:
- Re-evaluate and attempt the 25mg dosage again. Medical professionals recommend taking erectile dysfunction tablets around eight times before changing the treatment approach or increasing the dosage.
- Consult with your healthcare provider about the potential for increasing your dosage or reach out to us via your Patient Record.
- Explore the possibility of trying an alternative tablet that contains different active ingredients. Discuss with your doctor the options that might work better for you.
Taking Sildenafil 50mg
The Sildenafil 50mg dosage is the most frequently prescribed strength. If you are utilizing Sildenafil for the first occasion due to erectile dysfunction, it is highly probable that this is the dosage you will be recommended.
Instructions for using Sildenafil 50mg:
- Administer only one tablet at a time
- Consume the tablet one hour before your planned sexual encounter
- Avoid heavy meals beforehand
- Limit alcohol intake to one or two units
- Refrain from exceeding one tablet within a 24-hour timeframe
Sildenafil 50mg didn’t work for me. What should I do?
In clinical evaluations, Sildenafil 50mg demonstrated efficacy in 74% of men experiencing erectile dysfunction. Therefore, the likelihood of this treatment working for you is promising.
Should you find that the 50mg dosage does not yield results upon your initial trial, consider the following steps:
- Use Sildenafil on at least seven more occasions, ensuring you adhere strictly to the recommended protocol (medical advice suggests trying ED tablets eight times prior to altering dosage or switching to a different treatment).
- If there is still no improvement, have a discussion with your prescribing doctor regarding the possibility of escalating to Sildenafil 100mg. If you obtained the medication through our service, feel free to message us in your Patient Record.
- Think about trying a different erectile dysfunction tablet such as Cialis.
It is crucial that you do not adjust your Sildenafil dosage without prior consultation with your healthcare provider.
Taking Sildenafil 100mg
Your doctor might prescribe you the higher 100mg dosage of Sildenafil from the outset. However, it is more common practice to begin with the 50mg strength and gradually adjust to 100mg if necessary.
Sildenafil 100mg is to be utilized in a manner similar to the lower dosages: approximately one hour before sexual activity, and ideally on an empty stomach. Although the difference between Sildenafil 100mg and 50mg might not be pronounced in regard to timing, clinical trials have indicated that the former dose is approximately 82% effective compared to 74% for the latter.
The duration of action for Sildenafil 100mg does not extend beyond that of the 50mg dosage, though the intensity of effects may be heightened. Consequently, side effects are more likely to be experienced at this higher dosage.
Common side effects associated with Sildenafil may include:
- Headaches
- Facial flushing
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Congested nasal passages
While not everyone will experience these effects, they are more prevalent among those using Sildenafil 100mg.
Sildenafil 100mg didn’t work for me. What should I do?
If you find Sildenafil 100mg to be ineffective, it is vital to consult with your prescribing healthcare provider. They may suggest attempting the dosage several more times before seeking alternative treatments.
Given that 100mg is the maximum dosage available, you should never 'double up' on tablets or exceed one dosage within 24 hours. Sildenafil 100mg is the highest safe dosage; if it remains ineffective, it may be necessary to explore alternative ED treatments.
How long does Sildenafil last?
When effective, the results of Sildenafil 50mg typically endure for about 4 to 6 hours. Throughout this duration, you should be able to achieve an erection upon becoming sexually stimulated.
Importantly, the dosage you take does not influence the longevity of the effects, and the treatment itself does not dictate how long you may last during sexual activity.
Bear in mind, Sildenafil and all other ED medications will only function with sexual arousal; they are not classified as aphrodisiacs.
Alternative erectile dysfunction treatments
If Sildenafil is ineffective for you, there are alternative solutions. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option for your specific needs.
Alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction may contain different active ingredients yet provide similar effects to those of Sildenafil. Other tablets and creams include:
- Cialis
- Tadalafil
- Spedra
- Vardenafil
- Vitaros ED cream
In certain instances, if the underlying cause of your ED is psychological, therapy may prove beneficial. ED stemming from physical trauma or an underlying medical issue can often improve with targeted treatments or lifestyle adjustments, such as weight management and regular physical activity.
For further information regarding Sildenafil, please visit our online clinic.
Conclusion
Sildenafil is available in three distinct dosages: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. When taken roughly an hour before sexual engagement, it assists men experiencing erectile dysfunction in achieving and sustaining an erection. The optimal dosage for you will be influenced by various factors. Begin your online consultation today, and our clinicians will ensure it’s safe for you to proceed.
References
www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine/30907