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Understanding Sildenafil
What is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil, the generic name for Viagra, is an oral prescription medication designed specifically to address male sexual dysfunction, commonly referred to as impotence or erectile dysfunction (ED). This convenient treatment option is formulated as a tablet taken before engaging in sexual activity and should not be consumed more than once every 24 hours. Beyond its primary use for erectile dysfunction, sildenafil is also beneficial in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, affecting both men and women. It's important to note that these sildenafil products can't be mixed or substituted for one another without professional guidance.
How does sildenafil work?
Sildenafil functions as a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitor. When taken in conjunction with sexual stimulation, it facilitates increased blood flow to the penis, allowing men to achieve and sustain an erection. Importantly, sildenafil will not produce an erection in the absence of sexual arousal or stimulation, ensuring it works effectively as intended.
How to take sildenafil for best results
For optimal results, sildenafil is recommended to be taken approximately one hour before anticipated sexual activity. However, it can be taken at any point ranging from 30 minutes to a maximum of four hours prior to sexual engagement. Use of sildenafil should be on an as-needed basis, with a strict limit of once every 24 hours. Furthermore, patients can choose to take sildenafil with food or on an empty stomach, depending on personal preference.
How long does sildenafil take to work?
The efficacy of sildenafil in addressing erectile dysfunction is contingent upon sexual stimulation. It begins to take effect in approximately 60 minutes, allowing for timely and effective management of erectile dysfunction when needed.
How long does sildenafil last?
The duration of effects from sildenafil can persist for around two to four hours. If an erection maintains itself for longer than four hours, immediate medical assistance is required to prevent potential complications.
What are the side effects of sildenafil?
Like all medications, sildenafil carries the potential for side effects, some of which could be serious. Common adverse effects that may occur while using sildenafil for erectile dysfunction include headaches, flushing (a warm, red sensation typically affecting the face, neck, ears, or chest), nasal congestion, and indigestion. Usually, these side effects are temporary and subside once the medication is out of the system. Should these issues persist or become bothersome, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider for advice.
Serious side effects necessitate immediate medical intervention. These include sudden hearing loss or impairment, visual disturbances (such as alterations in color vision, blurred vision, or increased sensitivity to light), a sudden drop in blood pressure, or an erection lasting more than four hours. Although rare, instances of severe eye problems leading to altered eyesight, which may sometimes be temporary or result in lasting vision loss, have been reported. There is also a slight risk of sildenafil causing irregular heartbeat, heart attack, or stroke, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Comprehensive discussions with your Walgreens healthcare provider regarding your medical history will help ensure sildenafil is a safe choice for you.
How to get sildenafil for erectile dysfunction through Walgreen’s Virtual Care
During a Walgreens Virtual Healthcare appointment, your healthcare provider will evaluate your symptoms thoroughly and engage in a discussion regarding possible treatment options. Based on your medical assessment, the provider will decide if sildenafil tablets for erectile dysfunction are suitable for your condition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Is sildenafil available over the counter?
No, sildenafil is classified as a prescription medication and cannot be obtained over the counter. A valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is mandatory for access.
- Do you need a prescription for sildenafil?
Yes, a prescription is necessary to acquire sildenafil. It is not accessible without the intervention of a healthcare professional.
- What drugs interact with sildenafil?
Drug interactions can significantly alter the effectiveness of medications and may heighten the risk of undesirable side effects. Sildenafil possesses known interactions with various prescription medications and over-the-counter products, including vitamins and dietary supplements. To mitigate risks, it’s crucial to consult your Walgreens healthcare provider and pharmacist regarding all medications and over-the-counter products you are currently taking prior to initiating sildenafil therapy.
- What are the differences between sildenafil and Viagra?
Sildenafil represents the generic variant of the branded Viagra medication. Both formulations share identical active ingredients and are utilized to effectively manage erectile dysfunction in men.
- Will insurance cover a sildenafil prescription?
Coverage for sildenafil prescribed for erectile dysfunction may vary based on your insurance plan. Therefore, it is advisable to check with your insurance provider to confirm if sildenafil is included in your coverage.
- Does Walgreens offer the brand Viagra?
Yes, through Walgreens Virtual Care, both the brand-name Viagra and its generic equivalent sildenafil are available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate option for your needs.
- Can sildenafil be taken with food or alcohol?
Sildenafil can be taken without regard to food intake; it can be ingested with or without meals. However, it’s important to note that the consumption of alcohol while on sildenafil therapy can increase the likelihood of experiencing low blood pressure. For this reason, moderation or abstaining from alcohol consumption during sildenafil use is highly recommended.
- Sildenafil vs. tadalafil: What’s the difference?
Sildenafil (generic for Viagra) and tadalafil (generic for Cialis) are both classified as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors, functioning similarly to manage erectile dysfunction. Each medication should be taken on an as-needed basis, at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity, not exceeding once every 24 hours. Tadalafil may provide a longer-lasting effect compared to sildenafil, leading to lower strength tadalafil options intended for daily use regardless of sexual activity timing. It's critical to avoid taking sildenafil and tadalafil concurrently. Consult with your healthcare provider to ascertain which treatment is optimal for your situation.
- Sildenafil vs. Vardenafil: What’s the difference?
Sildenafil (the generic form of Viagra) and vardenafil (the generic for Levitra) are both PDE-5 inhibitors, offering effective management for erectile dysfunction. Vardenafil should typically be taken one hour before anticipated sexual activity, while sildenafil offers greater flexibility, as it can be taken as early as 30 minutes, up to four hours in advance. Both medications have a similar duration of action, and they should be utilized on an as-needed basis with a limit of once every 24 hours. Additionally, both sildenafil and vardenafil are available in oral tablet formulations for erectile dysfunction treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine which medication aligns best with your health needs.
References
1.Viagra (sildenafil citrate) tablets, for oral use. Package insert. Pfizer Labs. 2014.
2. Sildenafil: MedlinePlus drug information. MedlinePlus. Accessed February 19, 2025. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699015.html.
3. Cialis (tadalafil) tablets, or oral use. Package insert. Eli Lilly and Company. 2011.
4. Levitra (vardenafil hydrochloride) tablets, for oral use. Package insert. Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. 2014
Disclaimers
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