Sildenafil: how to take it safely
Viagra, Revatio
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats erection problems, and a higher-dose form treats pulmonary hypertension.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Sexual stimulation is needed for it to work.
When to take it
Take it about 1 hour before sex, not more than once a day.
Take it with
With or without food. A heavy fatty meal can slow it down.
What to avoid
- Nitrate medicines such as GTN or isosorbide, and riociguat. The combination can drop your blood pressure dangerously.
- Taking it more than once a day.
- Alcohol in large amounts.
- Grapefruit juice in large amounts.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, low blood pressure or have had a stroke.
Possible side effects
Headache, flushing, indigestion, stuffy nose, dizziness.
Get help if
A painful erection that lasts more than 4 hours, chest pain during sex, sudden loss of vision or hearing, or fainting: get emergency help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.