Sildenafil Oral Jelly 100 mg: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, and Dosing - WebMD

What is Sildenafil Oral Jelly 100 mg used for?

Sildenafil Oral Jelly 100 mg is a medication primarily used to treat the following conditions:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition where men have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. This may impact self-esteem and intimate relationships.
• Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a serious condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, resulting in increased strain on the heart.

Additionally, healthcare providers may prescribe it for other conditions as deemed appropriate, expanding its use in clinical settings.

How does Sildenafil Oral Jelly work?

Sildenafil works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), leading to the relaxation of blood vessels and increased blood flow to specific areas of the body. In the case of erectile dysfunction, this results in improved erectile function when sexually stimulated. Additionally, for pulmonary arterial hypertension, it assists in lowering blood pressure in the lungs, therefore easing the heart's workload and improving exercise capacity.

How is Sildenafil Oral Jelly supplied?

Brands and other names for Sildenafil Oral Jelly include:

• Viagra, a well-known brand used for ED.
• Revatio, which is often prescribed for PAH.

The medication is available in various forms, including:

• 100 mg oral jelly, which provides a fast-acting solution for ED.
• 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets, catering to different dosage requirements for patients.

How should I store Sildenafil Oral Jelly?

Storage Instructions:

• Store at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Avoid exposure to excessive heat or moisture, ensuring the integrity of the medication remains intact.

Side Effects

What are the common side effects of Sildenafil Oral Jelly?

The most frequently reported side effects include:

• Headache, which occurs due to changes in blood flow.
• Flushing, a warming sensation felt in the face and neck.
• Upset stomach, which may occur post-ingestion.
• Nasal congestion, leading to discomfort.
• Vision changes, such as a blue tint or blurred vision, temporarily affecting visual acuity.
• Dizziness, which may occur in some patients.

If side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your dosage or consider alternative treatments.

What are serious side effects of Sildenafil?

While serious side effects are rare, they include:

• Priapism: An erection lasting more than four hours can cause permanent damage if not treated promptly.
• Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms may include swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing that requires immediate medical attention.
• Vision loss: Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes has been reported in rare cases.
• Hearing loss: Sudden hearing loss may occur and is often accompanied by dizziness.

If you experience any serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention to prevent irreversible damage.

Warnings & Precautions

Who should avoid Sildenafil?

Allergies: Avoid sildenafil if you have a known allergy to this medication or any inactive ingredients included in the formulation.

Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, especially:

• Nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin), which can cause dangerously low blood pressure when combined with sildenafil.
• Alpha-blockers, which may also lower blood pressure significantly.
• Antifungal medications, which may interact and alter the metabolism of sildenafil.
• HIV protease inhibitors, known to increase sildenafil levels in the bloodstream.

Caution is advised if you have a history of heart problems, liver issues, or severe kidney disease, and medical guidance should be sought before use.

What should I know before taking Sildenafil?

Do not share your medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Sildenafil should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking sildenafil, as it may increase the risk of side effects and diminish the effectiveness of the treatment.

Interactions

Does Sildenafil interact with foods or drinks?

High-fat meals may delay the effects of sildenafil, whereas grapefruit can increase its levels in the bloodstream, potentially heightening side effects and leading to adverse reactions that require monitoring.

What should I tell my healthcare provider?

Discuss all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements. This includes:

• Current health conditions, especially cardiovascular issues, which could influence treatment decisions.
• History of strokes or heart attacks, which could elevate risks associated with sildenafil usage.
• Liver or kidney problems that may affect the metabolism of the drug.

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Sildenafil?

If an overdose occurs, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include severe dizziness, fainting, or prolonged erection, all of which require urgent care.

What if I miss a dose?

Erectile Dysfunction: Sildenafil is typically taken as needed before sexual activity. It is crucial to adhere to recommended dosages and do not take double doses, as this may increase risk of side effects.

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: If you miss a scheduled dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if the next dose is nearly due to avoid taking two doses too closely together.