Sildenafil (oral route)
It is important that you tell all of your doctors that you take sildenafil. This is crucial for your safety and health management, especially if you present with any conditions that may require urgent care. In case of an emergency, particularly one involving heart-related issues, it is essential that your healthcare provider is aware of your sildenafil usage, including the specific timing of your last dose. This information helps medical professionals make informed decisions regarding your treatment.
Do not use this medicine if you are also using a nitrate medication, which is commonly prescribed for conditions such as angina or high blood pressure. Nitrate medicines can significantly interact with sildenafil, leading to potentially dangerous drops in blood pressure. Specific examples of nitrate medications include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, some recreational drugs known as "poppers" that consist of amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite should also be avoided in conjunction with this medication. Furthermore, do not use sildenafil if you are prescribed riociguat (Adempas®), as the combination can lead to severe complications.
If you will be taking this medicine for pulmonary arterial hypertension, your healthcare provider will likely schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your condition. These visits are important, as they allow your doctor to assess your response to the medication and determine the efficacy of the treatment plan. Your ongoing evaluation will help in deciding whether to maintain, adjust, or discontinue the medication based on your health status.
If you take sildenafil specifically for pulmonary arterial hypertension, it is important to avoid taking Viagra® or other PDE5 inhibitors, such as tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®), as these combinations can increase the risk of adverse side effects due to overlapping mechanisms of action. Notably, Viagra® contains sildenafil itself, so co-administration is particularly discouraged, as it can lead to excessive dosages and heightened side effects.
Sildenafil should not be combined with any other medications or devices designed to induce erections. Engaging in such practices can put you at risk for serious complications and unwanted medical emergencies.
It is equally important to inform your doctor about any current or past heart problems you may have. Given the nature of sildenafil, it can pose significant risks for individuals who have a history of cardiovascular issues. Your healthcare team must be fully aware of your heart health to appropriately manage any potential risks associated with this medication.
If you experience a prolonged or painful erection lasting 4 hours or more, contact your doctor immediately. This condition, known as priapism, is serious and may necessitate immediate medical intervention to prevent lasting damage to your penis. This is a critical side effect that must be addressed without delay.
If you experience a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, contact your doctor immediately. Vision changes can indicate severe complications and warrant urgent investigation.
Check with your doctor right away if you have a sudden decrease in hearing or complete loss of hearing, which may come with symptoms like dizziness and ringing in the ears. These symptoms could signify a rare but serious side effect that should be assessed as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
If you are already taking medications for high blood pressure (hypertension), sildenafil has the potential to lower your blood pressure excessively. It is crucial to be vigilant for signs such as blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when transitioning from a lying or sitting position. Immediately report any unusual symptoms like sweating, extreme fatigue, or weakness to your healthcare provider. These may indicate a significant drop in blood pressure that requires immediate attention.
This medicine does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV or AIDS). It is advisable to utilize appropriate protective measures during sexual activity and consult your doctor for further guidance on how to stay safe. This will help ensure that you are protected from potential infections.
Do not take other medications unless they have been discussed and approved by your doctor. This directive applies to both prescription medications and nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) products, as well as any herbal or vitamin supplements. Open communication with your healthcare provider regarding all substances you are consuming is crucial for your safety and to avoid unwanted drug interactions.