Sildenafil (oral route)
It is crucial that you inform all of your healthcare providers that you are taking sildenafil. This is particularly important in case of any emergencies, especially related to heart issues. If you require urgent medical assistance for a heart condition, your healthcare team must be aware of when you last administered sildenafil to provide you with the appropriate care.
It is advised to avoid using this medication if you are concurrently taking a nitrate medication, which is commonly prescribed for conditions such as angina or hypertension. Some examples of nitrate medications are nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Additionally, steer clear of certain illicit substances known as "poppers" (like amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite). Furthermore, do not take sildenafil if you are also prescribed riociguat (Adempas®).
If your physician has prescribed this medication for pulmonary arterial hypertension, regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor your health and assess the medication's effectiveness. These check-ups are vital to ensure the drug is working optimally and to determine the appropriateness of ongoing treatment.
Patients using sildenafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension must avoid taking Viagra® or other phosphate diesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®), due to the risk of heightened side effects. Remember that Viagra® contains sildenafil, and taking excessive amounts or combining them with these medications can lead to significant adverse reactions.
This medication should not be utilized alongside other treatments or devices that induce erections. It is essential to disclose any existing or past heart conditions to your healthcare provider as sildenafil can potentially lead to severe complications in individuals with cardiovascular issues.
If you experience an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours, or one that is painful, seek medical attention immediately. This situation could necessitate urgent intervention to avert lasting damage to your penis.
In the event of sudden vision loss in one or both eyes, reach out to your healthcare provider without delay.
Consult your doctor promptly if you notice a sudden decline in hearing or complete hearing loss, especially if accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness or ringing in the ears.
If you are already on medication for high blood pressure (hypertension), taking sildenafil may lower your blood pressure too much. Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you experience symptoms such as blurriness in your vision, confusion, dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness upon standing suddenly, excessive sweating, unusual fatigue, or weakness.
This medication does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (including HIV or AIDS). It is advisable to employ protective measures and consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding this.
Refrain from taking other medications unless they have been discussed and approved by your healthcare professional. This includes both prescription and non-prescription (over-the-counter) medications, as well as herbal products or vitamin supplements.