Uses

This medication is used to treat male sexual function problems (erection problems).

How to use 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.

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.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others, since they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by this drug. Use of Viagra does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B, gonorrhea).

Missed dose

Not applicable.

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.