Sildenafil (oral route)
It is essential that you inform all of your healthcare providers about your use of sildenafil. If an emergency arises requiring medical attention for a heart issue, it becomes vital for your attending physician to be aware of the last time you ingested sildenafil. This knowledge aids in providing you with the safest and most effective care.
Avoid using this medication if you are concurrently taking any nitrate drugs, which are frequently prescribed for treating angina or managing high blood pressure. Examples of nitrate medications include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, refrain from using sildenafil if you are taking riociguat (Adempas®). Certain illicit drugs, commonly referred to as "poppers" (such as amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite), also interact negatively with sildenafil.
If you are prescribed this medication for pulmonary arterial hypertension, regular medical follow-ups are essential. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress to ensure the drug is having the desired therapeutic effect and to determine whether you should continue your treatment regimen.
Patients utilizing sildenafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension should avoid the intake of Viagra® or other PDE5 inhibitors, which include tadalafil (Cialis®) and vardenafil (Levitra®). Viagra® contains sildenafil as an active ingredient. Using excessive amounts of sildenafil or combining it with these other medications can significantly heighten the risk of experiencing adverse side effects.
Sildenafil must not be combined with any other medication or device that induces erections. The potential for negative interactions can pose serious risks to your health.
It is critical to disclose to your doctor any existing or historical heart conditions. The administration of this medicine can result in severe side effects for individuals with pre-existing heart issues, and your healthcare provider needs to be fully informed.
If you encounter a prolonged or painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer, seek medical attention immediately. This condition poses a serious risk and may require urgent medical intervention to avert long-lasting damage to your penis.
Should you notice a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, contact your doctor without delay. Vision changes can signify serious health concerns that require prompt action.
If you observe a sudden decrease in hearing or experience hearing loss, particularly if it is accompanied by feelings of dizziness or tinnitus (ringing in the ears), reach out to your physician immediately. These symptoms may indicate a serious reaction to sildenafil that necessitates medical evaluation.
Individuals already managing high blood pressure (hypertension) with medication should be aware that sildenafil may contribute to dangerously low blood pressure levels. If you experience symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness upon standing up from a sitting or lying position, as well as any unusual sweating, tiredness, or weakness, contact your doctor immediately.
It is also important to note that this medication does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (including HIV or AIDS). Protective measures should be employed, and you are encouraged to consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions regarding safe practices.
Do not commence any new medications without first discussing them with your doctor. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, as well as herbal remedies or vitamin supplements that may affect how sildenafil works.