Sildenafil (oral route)
It is essential to inform all healthcare professionals involved in your care that you are taking sildenafil. Should you require urgent medical attention for any heart-related issue, it becomes crucial for your physician to be aware of the timing of your last dose of sildenafil. This information can significantly influence treatment decisions and ensure your safety.
It is strictly advised not to use this medication in conjunction with any nitrate-based medicines, which are commonly prescribed to manage angina or hypertension. Nitrate medications include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, refrain from using certain illegal substances known as “poppers” (such as amyl nitrate or butyl nitrate). Using sildenafil alongside riociguat (Adempas®) is also contraindicated.
For patients prescribed sildenafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension, it is important that your doctor conducts regular follow-up visits to monitor your condition. These appointments will enable your physician to assess the effectiveness of the medication and determine the appropriateness of continued use based on your response.
If you are using sildenafil specifically for pulmonary arterial hypertension, be cautious not to take Viagra® or other phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®), as they also contain sildenafil. Taking excessive amounts of sildenafil or combining it with these drugs could increase the likelihood of experiencing adverse effects.
Sildenafil is not intended to be used in conjunction with any other medications or devices that induce erections, as this could lead to unintended consequences.
It is imperative that you communicate to your doctor any existing or past heart issues you have. Sildenafil usage can lead to severe complications in individuals with cardiovascular conditions, necessitating close monitoring.
If you experience an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours or becomes painful, seek immediate medical assistance. Failure to address this condition promptly may result in lasting damage to the penile tissue.
Additionally, if you notice a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, it is vital to contact your healthcare provider without delay.
Be sure to report immediately if you experience a sudden decline in hearing or issues with hearing, especially if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness or tinnitus. These could signify serious complications requiring urgent care.
If you are on medication for hypertension, sildenafil might cause your blood pressure to drop significantly. Notify your doctor right away if you experience symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, fainting, or any unusual tiredness or weakness, particularly when moving from a lying or seated position to standing. These could indicate hypotension.
This medication does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (including HIV or AIDS), so it is crucial to utilize appropriate protective measures and consult your healthcare provider with any questions regarding this aspect.
Finally, do not take any other medications without discussing them with your doctor first. This recommendation applies to all forms of drugs, including both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, as well as herbal and vitamin supplements.