Sildenafil Dosage Guide
Reviewed by Dr Bhavini Shah
Sildenafil is a widely recognized medication for treating erectile dysfunction (ED), specifically designed for men who face difficulties achieving a natural erection. As the generic equivalent of Viagra, it shares the same active component, sildenafil citrate, and operates through an identical mechanism to facilitate erections.
This medication comes in three variations, each differing in strength: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. If you’re contemplating using Sildenafil, and are uncertain which strength to select, continue reading for comprehensive insights.
Sildenafil dosage guide
Getting treatment for erectile dysfunction
Experiencing difficulties in achieving and maintaining an erection can be concerning, and it is vital to address this issue with a healthcare professional. Erectile dysfunction may indicate underlying health problems.
As Dr Neel Patel states, “if you find persistent ED is affecting your self-esteem or romantic life, seeking professional guidance could be beneficial. Although infrequent, erectile dysfunction could potentially be linked to significant health complications such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.”
Should your doctor determine that treatment is appropriate, they might prescribe Sildenafil or advise on lifestyle modifications. The most commonly prescribed doses include Sildenafil 50mg and Sildenafil 100mg.
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Available Sildenafil doses
Sildenafil is offered in three distinct dosages: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. The potency of the medication increases with the dosage, yet a higher dosage can also raise the likelihood of side effects. A healthcare professional will determine the most suitable dosage for your unique needs.
The available dosages are as follows:
| 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 | Starting at £16.00 | Starting at £15.00 | Starting at £25.00 |
What is the highest permissible dose of Sildenafil?
The upper limit for Sildenafil dosage is capped at 100mg. Since this represents the maximum prescribed amount, you should not consume more than one tablet within a 24-hour timeframe.
“Your healthcare provider may suggest a higher or lower strength based on personal health factors and how effectively Sildenafil is performing for you. Always adhere to the prescribed guidelines. - Dr Bhavini Shah
What dose of Sildenafil should I consider taking?
Generally, the initial dose recommended is 50mg, as this dosage has been found to be effective for a majority of users. However, your prescription may vary based on factors such as age, medical history, medications you’re currently using, kidney function, and body mass index (BMI). Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate dosage tailored to your circumstances.
Taking Sildenafil 25mg
For some individuals, the lower dosage of 25mg may be prescribed. This could be due to a sensitivity to side effects or existing health conditions that necessitate a cautious approach to treatment. While lower dosages may still lead to adverse effects, they are typically less severe.
How to properly use Sildenafil 25mg
- Consume one tablet approximately 60 minutes prior to sexual activity
- Ensure you are sexually stimulated for Sildenafil to exert its effects
- Limit yourself to one dose per day
What to do if Sildenafil 25mg is ineffective?
If 25mg dosage results in unsatisfactory outcomes, ensure that you are adequately sexually aroused, as Sildenafil requires stimulation to be effective. Also, avoiding excessive alcohol intake may improve efficacy.
If the 25mg dosage does not yield results, you can consider:
- Trying Sildenafil 25mg again; it’s often advised to use ED medications for around eight instances before altering treatment or dosage.
- Consulting with your healthcare provider about a potential dosage adjustment or sending us a message through your Patient Record.
- Exploring alternative medications that leverage different active principles. Discuss options with your doctor to identify what may be effective for you.
Taking Sildenafil 50mg
The 50mg dosage is the most frequently prescribed strength for Sildenafil. If you are initiating treatment for erectile dysfunction, there’s a high chance this is the dose you will be given.
To use Sildenafil 50mg correctly, follow these guidelines:
- Only take one tablet at a time
- Consume the tablet an hour before planned sexual activity
- Avoid heavy meals in advance of taking the medication
- Limit alcohol consumption to one or two units beforehand
- Do not exceed one tablet in a 24-hour period
What if Sildenafil 50mg doesn’t work for me?
Research indicated that Sildenafil 50mg was effective for about 74% of men with erectile dysfunction. Thus, the likelihood of having positive results with this dosage is substantial.
If your initial experience with Sildenafil 50mg is not favorable, consider the following recommendations:
- Utilize Sildenafil for up to seven additional attempts, ensuring it’s taken precisely as directed (it’s generally advised to trial ED tablets eight times before making any adjustments)
- If unsuccessful, speak with your prescribing doctor regarding an increase to Sildenafil 100mg. If you ordered through us, don’t hesitate to reach out via your Patient Record.
- Explore the possibility of using a different ED medication, such as Cialis.
It is crucial not to modify the prescribed Sildenafil dosage without consulting your healthcare provider first.
Taking Sildenafil 100mg
Your clinician might have prescribed the 100mg dosage of Sildenafil from the outset. However, patients usually start with 50mg and may increase to 100mg based on outcomes.
Taking Sildenafil 100mg follows the same guidelines as the lower doses: ideally one hour before engaging in sexual intercourse and on an empty stomach. Although both dosages operate similarly, clinical trials reveal an effectiveness rate of 82% for Sildenafil 100mg compared to 74% for the 50mg variant.
The duration of effects between Sildenafil 100mg and 50mg tends to be similar, though the intensity may be heightened. This could also lead to the potential for more pronounced side effects with the 100mg dosage.
Common side effects associated with Sildenafil include:
- Headaches
- Facial flushing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nasal congestion
While these effects are not universal, their incidence may increase with the 100mg dose.
What if Sildenafil 100mg is ineffective?
If Sildenafil 100mg does not achieve the desired effect, consulting your prescribing physician is essential. They may advise you to try the dosage a few more times before pursuing alternative treatments.
Since 100mg is the maximum dosage allowed, it is critical never to combine tablets or take more than one within a 24-hour period. Should this dosage prove ineffective, exploring other ED treatment options is advisable.
How long can I expect Sildenafil to be effective?
When effective, the impact of Sildenafil 50mg may last between four to six hours, during which time an erection should be achievable upon sexual arousal.
The dosage taken does not influence the duration of effects, nor does it determine endurance during intercourse. It's important to note that Sildenafil and all other ED medications require sexual arousal to work; they do not serve as aphrodisiacs.
Alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction
If Sildenafil does not yield the desired results, there are alternative therapies to consider. Consulting with your doctor about the options available would be beneficial.
Alternative ED treatments may feature different active substances but yield effects similar to those of Sildenafil. Options include:
- Cialis
- Tadalafil
- Spedra
- Vardenafil
- Vitaros ED cream
In instances where the underlying cause of ED is psychological, counseling may provide significant benefits. For cases arising from physical injuries or existing conditions, improvements may come from targeted therapies or lifestyle alterations like weight management and regular exercise.
For additional details on Sildenafil, explore our online clinic.
Conclusion
Sildenafil is dispensed in three specific strengths—25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. Taken approximately one hour before sexual activity, it aids men experiencing erectile dysfunction in achieving and sustaining an erection. The appropriate dosage will be dependent on a variety of personal factors. Commence your online consultation today for tailored advice on safe usage.
References
www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine/30907