Most
Common Medical Uses
This
medication is used to treat male sexual
function problems (erection problems).
How to
Take This Medication
This drug is taken by mouth as needed
between four hours and one-half
hour before sexual activity (about
one hour before is most effective).
Take only as directed, usually once
daily as needed. Sildenafil works
along with sexual stimulation to
help achieve an erection.
Possible
Side Effects
Headache, flushing, stomach upset,
nasal stuffiness, diarrhea and dizziness
might occur. If these effects persist
or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Precautions
Before using this drug, tell your
doctor your medical history, including
any allergies (especially drug allergies),
any penis conditions such as fibrosis/scarring,
history of painful/prolonged erection
(priapism), sickle cell anemia,
blood system cancers (such as leukemia
or myeloma), or Peyronie's disease,
eye problems (retina diseases).
kidney or liver disease, bleeding
disorders or active stomach ulcers,
heart diseases, stroke or severe
high or low blood pressure. Limit
alcohol intake, as it may aggravate
side effects of this drug. To avoid
dizziness and lightheadedness when
rising from a seated or lying position,
get up slowly. The elderly may be
more sensitive to the side effects
of this drug, therefore caution
is advised in this group.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all nonprescription
and prescription medication you
may use, especially any nitrate
medications (e.g., nitroglycerin,
isosorbide dinitrate), nitroprusside
(any "nitric oxide donor"
medicines), cimetidine, erythromycin,
azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole,
ketoconazole), mibefradil, rifamycins
(e.g., rifampin) or high blood pressure
medicines.
Storage
Store at room temperature between
59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees
C) away from light and moisture.
Keep this and all medications out
of the reach of children.
Notes
Do not share this medication with
others, since they may have a problem
that is not effectively treated
by this drug. Use of this drug does
not protect against sexually transmitted
diseases (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B,
gonorrhea).
