Sildenafil (oral route)
It is important that you tell all of your doctors that you take sildenafil. By ensuring that every healthcare provider is aware of your sildenafil usage, you help them make informed decisions regarding your treatment. If you require emergency medical care for a heart problem or any other serious condition, it is crucial that your doctor is informed about when you last took sildenafil. This information can affect the course of your treatment and medication choices.
Do not use this medicine if you are also using a nitrate medicine, which is often prescribed for angina, a type of chest pain, or high blood pressure management. Nitrate medications include nitroglycerin in various forms, such as tablets, patches, and sprays, as well as other brands like Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, recreational substances known as "poppers," including amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite, may interact with sildenafil. Furthermore, do not use this medicine if you are also prescribed riociguat (Adempas®), as this combination can lead to dangerous side effects.
If you are taking this medication for pulmonary arterial hypertension, your doctor will want to ensure you have regular follow-up appointments. These visits are important to determine the effectiveness of the medication and assess any potential side effects or required dosage adjustments. Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and may perform tests to ensure that sildenafil is helping your condition.
If you are prescribed sildenafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension, you should avoid using Viagra® or any other medications classified as PDE5 inhibitors, including tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®). It’s important to note that Viagra® also contains sildenafil. Using these medications together or taking an excessive dose of sildenafil can significantly increase the likelihood of experiencing adverse reactions.
Sildenafil should not be used in conjunction with any other medicinal product or device intended to induce or maintain erections. Combining treatments may lead to complications that could compromise your health.
It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about any existing heart issues you have or have had in the past. Sildenafil has the potential to cause serious complications in patients with pre-existing heart conditions, and your doctor needs to assess your risks before prescribing this medication.
If you experience a prolonged or painful erection lasting 4 hours or more, contact your doctor immediately. This condition, known as priapism, requires prompt medical intervention to prevent serious and potentially permanent damage to your penis. Do not delay in seeking care if this occurs.
If you notice a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, it is imperative to report this to your doctor without delay. Sudden vision changes can be indicative of a serious condition that requires immediate attention.
Seek medical advice immediately if you experience a sudden decrease in hearing or loss of hearing, which may be accompanied by dizziness and ringing in the ears. This could indicate a serious side effect that necessitates urgent assessment.
If you are already taking medication for high blood pressure (hypertension), be aware that sildenafil may cause your blood pressure levels to drop too low. It is crucial to notify your doctor right away if you experience symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, faintness, lightheadedness when standing up suddenly, excessive sweating, or an unusual sense of tiredness or weakness.
Please remember that this medicine does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV or AIDS. Taking appropriate protective measures during sexual activity is essential, and you should discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Finally, do not start or stop taking any medications unless you have consulted with your doctor first. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, as well as herbal remedies and vitamin supplements. Proper communication with your healthcare provider ensures safe and effective treatment.