Sildenafil (oral route)
It is important that you tell all of your doctors that you take sildenafil. This information is crucial, as it can significantly impact your treatment plans and overall health management. Should you require emergency medical assistance for any heart-related concerns, having this information readily available allows your healthcare provider to make informed decisions. Therefore, ensure that you communicate when you last took sildenafil to help healthcare providers manage your care effectively.
Do not use this medicine if you are also using a nitrate medicine, often prescribed for conditions like angina or high blood pressure. Nitrate medicines include, but are not limited to, nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Nitrol® ointment, Nitrolingual® spray, Nitrostat®, and Transderm Nitro®. Furthermore, be cautious with the use of certain illegal substances, commonly referred to as "street" drugs, which may include "poppers" such as amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite. It is also critical to avoid this medication if you are currently using riociguat (Adempas®), as combining these treatments could lead to severe complications.
If you will be taking this medicine specifically for pulmonary arterial hypertension, your doctor will want to check your progress at regular visits. Regular monitoring is necessary to assess how well the medication is functioning and to determine whether you should continue its use. Your doctor will evaluate your response to the treatment at these follow-up appointments to ensure safety and efficacy.
If you take sildenafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension, refrain from using Viagra® or other PDE5 inhibitors, including tadalafil (Cialis®) or vardenafil (Levitra®). Keep in mind that Viagra® also contains sildenafil, which can increase the risk of adverse effects if taken together. Using sildenafil alongside these medications can heighten the potential for side effects, making it essential to manage your medications carefully.
Sildenafil should not be used in conjunction with any other medicine or device designed to induce erections. This combination could lead to unforeseen complications, so it is vital to stick to the prescribed treatment plan.
It is important to disclose any heart problems you have now or may have had in the past to your doctor. This medicine can pose serious risks for individuals with existing heart conditions. Your healthcare provider will need this information to determine the best course of action for your treatment.
If you experience a prolonged or painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer, contact your doctor immediately. This condition, known as priapism, may necessitate urgent medical intervention to avert lasting harm to your penis. Prompt action is crucial in protecting your health in these scenarios.
If you notice a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, seek medical assistance without delay. Sudden visual impairment is a serious condition that requires immediate attention from a healthcare professional.
Check with your doctor right away if you experience a sudden decrease in hearing or loss of hearing, especially if accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness and ringing in the ears. These signs may indicate a serious side effect that demands prompt evaluation.
If you are already taking medication for high blood pressure (hypertension), be aware that sildenafil could potentially lower your blood pressure too much. It is important to communicate with your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness upon standing up from a lying or sitting position suddenly, as well as sweating or unusual tiredness or weakness.
This medicine does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV or AIDS). It is crucial to utilize protective measures during intimate encounters and consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter.
Do not take additional medications unless they have been discussed and approved by your doctor. This precaution includes both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, as well as herbal or vitamin supplements. Open communication regarding all substances you are consuming is vital to prevent potential drug interactions and ensure your safety.