Sildenafil (oral route)
It is crucial to inform all of your healthcare providers about your use of sildenafil. This includes not just your primary care physician, but also specialists and any urgent care practitioners you may see. In case of an emergency requiring medical attention for a heart condition, your healthcare team will need to be aware of your sildenafil usage, including the specific timing of your last dose, to ensure that you receive the most appropriate and safe care.
Avoid using sildenafil in conjunction with any nitrate medications. Nitrates are commonly prescribed for conditions such as angina or high blood pressure and include medications like nitroglycerin, isosorbide, and specific brand-name products such as Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, and Nitrolingual® spray. Additionally, refrain from using illegal drugs known as “poppers,” which include substances such as amyl nitrate and butyl nitrate. Mixing sildenafil with these substances can lead to serious health risks.
If you are prescribed sildenafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension, your physician will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your condition and the effectiveness of the medication. It is essential for the doctor to assess your response to the treatment and determine whether it should be continued or adjusted.
When using sildenafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension, do not simultaneously take Viagra® or other phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®). This is critical because Viagra® itself contains sildenafil, and using them together could increase the risk of adverse effects.
Do not use sildenafil in combination with any other medications or devices that promote erections. This could lead to unexpected and potentially harmful side effects.
It is vital to disclose any existing or past heart-related issues to your physician. This medication can pose significant risks to individuals with prior or current heart conditions.
Should you experience an erection lasting longer than 4 hours, seek medical assistance immediately. Ignoring this condition could result in enduring harm to your penis, necessitating prompt intervention.
If you notice a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Prompt action can be critical.
Be sure to report any sudden changes in your hearing, including a decrease or complete loss, especially if accompanied by dizziness or tinnitus (ringing in the ears). This could indicate a serious side effect that requires immediate attention.
If you are already undergoing treatment for high blood pressure, it is important to monitor how sildenafil may affect your levels. Be alert for symptoms like blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when changing positions. Should you experience any of these symptoms, it’s imperative to contact your doctor right away.
This medication does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV and AIDS. Always use protective barriers and consult your healthcare provider with any concerns regarding sexual health.
Refrain from taking any new medications unless they have been thoroughly discussed with your doctor. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, as well as any herbal or vitamin supplements you may be considering to avoid potential interactions.