Uses
This medication is used to treat erectile dysfunction problems (erection
problems). Sildenafil works along with sexual stimulation to help achieve
an erection.
This drug should be taken only as directed, by mouth, between four and
one-half hours before sexual activity, though one hour before has proven
the most effective dosage interval. Usual dosage is once daily.
Side effects
Headache, flushing, stomach upset, nasal stuffiness, diarrhea and dizziness
might occur. Notify your doctor promptly is these effects persist or worsen.
Precautions
As with taking any medication, you need to tell the physician your complete
medical history including any allergies (especially drug allergies), any
conditions affecting the penis such as fibrosis/scarring, a 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.
Alcohol intake should be limited as it may aggravate the side effects
of this drug. To avoid possible dizziness or lightheadedness when rising
from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Since the elderly may
be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, caution is advised
in this group.
Drug interactions
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you
are presently taking or have been using regularly, 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.
Important Notes
Please remember that this prescription has been approved and filled for
you. Do not share this medication with anyone else. Only a physician and
a pharmacist can advise and prescribe. This drug does not provide protection
against sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B, of gonorrhea.
Storage
To insure the effectiveness of your prescription, you should store it
at room temperature (between 59 and 86 degrees F or 15-30 degrees C) away
from direct light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of reach
of children.