Sildenafil (oral route)
It is crucial that you inform every one of your healthcare providers about your use of sildenafil. Timely communication regarding your medicine is vital, especially if you require urgent medical assistance for a cardiac issue. In such cases, your physician must be aware of the last instance you ingested sildenafil to provide the best possible care tailored to your situation.
It is imperative that you do not use this medication alongside any nitrate medications, which are commonly prescribed for conditions like angina or hypertension. Examples of nitrate medications include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, refrain from using illicit substances often referred to as “poppers,” which may include compounds such as amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite. Moreover, if you are taking riociguat (Adempas®), you should avoid sildenafil, as it can lead to dangerous interactions.
When utilizing this medication for pulmonary arterial hypertension, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are necessary to monitor your condition. These appointments ensure that your treatment is effective and help determine whether you should continue your current dosage.
Should you be prescribed sildenafil to manage pulmonary arterial hypertension, it is essential that you avoid taking Viagra® or any other phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®). Both Viagra® and the aforementioned PDE5 inhibitors contain sildenafil, and taking them concurrently can heighten the risk of experiencing adverse effects.
Be aware that sildenafil should never be combined with any other medication or device intended to induce erections.
It is vital that you disclose any present or past heart-related issues to your healthcare provider. This medication has the potential to trigger severe side effects in individuals with underlying cardiac conditions.
Should you encounter a painful or prolonged erection lasting four hours or longer, seek immediate medical assistance. This condition, known as priapism, necessitates prompt intervention to avert lasting damage to the penis.
If you notice a sudden decline in vision in one or both of your eyes, reach out to your physician without delay. Such occurrences can be indicative of serious complications.
Additionally, consult your doctor immediately if you experience a sudden reduction in hearing or if hearing loss is accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness or ringing in your ears. Immediate action could be critical in such cases.
If you are currently undergoing treatment for hypertension, sildenafil has the potential to lower your blood pressure significantly. Contact your healthcare provider urgently if you experience symptoms like blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, faintness, lightheadedness upon standing up suddenly, excessive sweating, or abnormal fatigue or weakness.
Keep in mind that this medication does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV or AIDS. It is advisable to use appropriate protective measures and consult your healthcare provider if you have any uncertainties regarding sexual health.
Lastly, avoid initiating any additional medications without prior consultation with your healthcare provider. This caution includes both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications as well as any herbal or vitamin supplements you may be considering.