CLASS and MECHANISM of Action
Sildenafil Citrate is a drug used to treat male erectile dysfunction (impotence) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer
Part of the physiological process of erection involves the parasympathetic nervous system causing the release of nitric oxide (NO) in the corpus cavernosum of the penis. NO binds to the receptors of the enzyme guanylate cyclase which results in increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), leading to smooth muscle relaxation (vasodilation) in the corpus cavernosum, resulting in increased inflow of blood and an erection. Sildenafil Citrate is a potent and selective inhibitor of cGMP specific phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) which is responsible for degradation of cGMP in the corpus cavernosum.
Active Ingredient: Sildenafil Citrate
Inactive Ingredients: Magnesium stearate, anhydrous dibasic calcium phosphate, hypromellose, titanium, dioxide, microcrystalline cellulose, FD & C Blue #2 aluminum lake, lactose, triacetin and croscarmellose sodium.
What is Sildenafil Citrate PRESCRIBED For?
Sildenafil Citrate is prescribed when a male cannot get, or keep, a hard erect penis suitable for sexual activity.
This medication is used to treat male sexual function problems (erection problems) Sildenafil Citrate is also known to:
- Increase Sex Drive - Boost Sexual Performance
- Fuller & Harder Erections - Increase Stamina & Endurance
- Quicker Recharges
As well as erectile dysfunction, Sildenafil Citrate is also effective in the rare disease pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). It relaxes the arterial wall, leading to decreased pulmonary arterial resistance and pressure. This in turn reduces the workload of the right atrium of the heart and improves symptoms of right-sided heart failure.
How Should I Take Sildenafil Citrate?
This drug is taken by mouth as needed 45 minutes before sexual activity. Take only as directed, usually half a 100 mg pill once daily as needed. Sildenafil Citrate works along with sexual stimulation to help achieve an erection.
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.
What are the CONTRAINDICATIONS for taking Sildenafil Citrate?
Sildenafil Citrate should not be taken in the following cases:
- When taking nitric oxide donors, organic nitrites and nitrates, such as glyceryl trinitrate, sodium nitroprusside, amyl nitrite ("poppers")[5]
- In men for whom sexual intercourse is inadvisable due to cardiovascular risk factors
- Severe hepatic impairment (decreased liver function)
- Severe impairment in renal function
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Recent stroke or heart attack
- Hereditary degenerative retinal disorders (including genetic disorders of retinal phosphodiesterases)
What Happens if I MISS A DOSE?
Sildenafil Citrate are used according to your needs, so you are not likely to miss a dose.
What happens if I OVERDOSE?
If you overdose with Sildenafil Citrate seeks emergency medical attention. The most common symptoms of a Sildenafil Citrate overdose include back
pain, muscle pain, and abnormal vision.
What are the possible SIDE EFFECTS of Sildenafil Citrate?
Among Sildenafil Citrate's serious adverse effects are: priapism, severe hypotension, myocardial infarction, ventricular arrhythmias, sudden death, stroke and increased intraocular pressure.
Common side effects include sneezing, headache, flushing, dyspepsia, prolonged erections, palpitations and photophobia. Visual changes including blurring of vision and a curious bluish tinge have also been reported.
Care should be exercised by patients who are also taking Protease inhibitors for the treatment of HIV. Protease inhibitors inhibit the metabolism of Sildenafil Citrate, effectively multiplying the plasma levels of Sildenafil Citrate, increasing the incidence and severity of side-effects. It is recommended that patients using protease inhibitors limit their use of Sildenafil Citrate to no more than one 25-mg dose every 48 hours.
Some Sildenafil Citrate users have complained of blurriness and loss of peripheral vision.
What other drugs can INTERACT with Sildenafil Citrate?
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.
Additional Information
Follow the directions on the label of this medicine or as directed by your doctor. Take your dose about one hour before you expect to have sex maximum 1 dose in 24 hours. Tell your doctor if Among Sildenafil Citrate's does not help you get an erection (or not long enough). The dose may need adjustment in some cases. Avoid using alcohol. Contact your doctor or seek medical help if side effects are severe or ongoing