What is Sildenafil?

Sildenafil is an oral prescription medication widely recognized for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It is also beneficial in managing pulmonary arterial hypertension, a serious condition that impacts blood flow to the lungs. Walgreens provides this medication under various brand names, ensuring patients have convenient access through their pharmacy network.

Used for Treating

The range of sildenafil's applications includes:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): It aids men in achieving and sustaining an erection during sexual arousal.
• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): This medication enhances physical exercise capacity in both genders by lowering blood pressure in the lungs.

Before initiating sildenafil therapy, it is vital to engage with a healthcare provider to assess its suitability for you personally.

Dosage Guidelines

The appropriate dosage of sildenafil is condition-dependent:

Erectile Dysfunction

Competent starting dosage for most individuals is 50 mg, which should be taken as needed approximately one hour before sexual activity. Adjustments can be made by the healthcare provider based on individual effectiveness and toleration levels.

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

For PAH, the initial recommended dose is typically 5 mg taken three times a day, with potential adjustments based on the patient's response and tolerance.

How to Take Sildenafil

Consultation Before Use

Ensure to inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially:

• Cardiovascular issues
• Blood pressure abnormalities
• Liver or kidney impairment
• Inherited retinal disorders

Administration of Sildenafil

Administer sildenafil exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Never exceed one dose within a 24-hour timeframe unless specifically directed otherwise. You may take sildenafil with or without food, although high-fat meals may delay its onset of action.

Potential Side Effects and Warnings

Common Side Effects

Sildenafil is generally well-tolerated, but some potential side effects may include:

• Headaches
• Facial flushing
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Nasal congestion
• Visual alterations

Should you encounter severe side effects—such as chest pain, abrupt vision loss, or an erection lasting over four hours—immediate medical assistance is imperative.

Safety Precautions

Avoid using sildenafil in conjunction with nitrates, commonly prescribed for angina, due to the risk of significant hypotension. Individuals with a history of stroke or cardiovascular disease should use caution when considering this medication.

Cost and Availability

To obtain pricing information for sildenafil, visit your nearest Walgreens Pharmacy or navigate to the official Walgreens website. For further inquiries, you may contact their customer service at 877-250-5823 for the most accurate quotes.

Feedback from Patients

Understanding the experiences of other users can be enlightening regarding sildenafil’s effectiveness. However, feedback in online forums is currently limited. If you have utilized this medication, sharing your story could significantly aid others in their choices.