Sildenafil

What Is Sildenafil?

Scientists apply Sildenafil as an inhibitor drug for PDE5 enzymes that belongs to the pharmacological category. Doctors apply Sildenafil for treating two medical conditions namely erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Sildenafil prevents PDE5 enzyme to enhance blood circulation, notably in the direction of the penis. The drug provides men with the ability to attain and maintain an erection when they engage in sexual activity.

Sildenafil shows its effects in 30 to 60 minutes before providing its benefits which endure up to four hours. The medication functions only when sexual stimulation is present, but provides no ability to utilize it randomly.

Formulations of sildenafil

Sildenafil is available in two formulations –

Oral Tablets:

The regular form of tablets exists for oral consumption with only water as the recommended consumption medium. The added components in these tablets include binders to support dissolution and pigments and flavoring agents sometimes also appear.

Sublingual Tablet:

The medication exists as oral tablets that require dissolving underneath the tongue. These oral tablets dissolve into a liquid form under the tongue before they quickly disappear without evidence. Such medications effectively serve patients who experience swallowing problems with their food consumption.

History of sildenafil

The active compound Sildenafil citrate in Viagra and its related drugs came from Pfizer’s development work led by Simon Campbell under the direction of Simon Campbell which produced this type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitor. FDA authorized the distribution of Viagra on 27th March 1998 and Pfizer introduced the medication as Viagra in the United States market.

The Teva Pharmaceuticals company became the first entity to introduce generic Viagra after the market patent expiration in 2013 and 2017. Many pharmaceutical businesses started entering the market to produce Generic Viagra pills after Teva Pharmaceuticals’ initial venture.

A few notable manufacturers of sildenafil ( Generic Viagra ) include-

• Centurion Laboratories
• Aurobindo Pharma
• Amneal Pharmaceuticals
• Aurochem Laboratories
• Sunrise Remedies

Who can take sildenafil?

Medical professionals should not write prescriptions for Sildenafil treatment of erectile dysfunction among male patients who are under 18 years old or older than 70 years old. The appropriate preparation of healthcare providers must be implemented before using the medication. Healthcare providers need to advise patients to use exactly the dosage prescribed.

Uses of sildenafil

1. Erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
2. Doctors have authorization to utilize sildenafil outside of its approved conditions for managing hypoxemia triggered by elevated terrain heights. Sildenafil has an off-label use for treating female sexual arousal disorder. The medical application of sildenafil helps treat secondary Raynaud phenomenon apart from its other approved uses.

Benefits of sildenafil

1. Effective for Erectile Dysfunction:- Doctors use sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction, and studies have proven it to be very effective. Hence it boosts sexual drive and hence improves on the performance.
2. Quick Onset of Action:- It starts to work in half an hour to one hour. Therefore, it offers a quick remedy.
3. Improves Blood Flow:- Sildenafil relaxes the smooth muscles of the arteries and other blood vessels in the penis. Therefore, it enhances the ability to have long lasting erections.
4. Widely Studied and Trusted:- Many people across the world have extensively researched and trust Sildenafil as a well-studied drug. That is why they consider it to be quite safe.
5. Flexible Dosing Options:- Sildenafil comes in different concentrations to suit individual needs thus allowing for a customised treatment regimen. Besides, it meets different requirements.
6. Long Duration of Action:- Sildenafil does not last more than 4 to 6 hours. Because of this, it creates a much larger opportunity for sexual experiences.
7. Proven Track Record:- Millions of patients have prescribed it, and all have benefited from it since its approval. Therefore, it is one of the most frequently used drugs on the market.
8. Safe for Most Conditions:- Most health conditions usually tolerate Sildenafil well. However, it is always recommended to consult a doctor.
9. Compatible with Many Conditions:- Sildenafil is usually not dangerous for different diseases. Though you can try some remedies at home, experts recommend seeking the help of a health care provider.

Expert (Lisa Pechey) Recommended Read:- Maximize the Benefits of Sildenafil

Dosage of Sildenafil

Various strengths of Sildenafil drug exist in three levels of 25mg, 50mg and 100mg and four ultra-high levels from 120mg to 200mg. The drug also contains strengths at 130mg and 150mg. Professional selection of medicine dosage depends on three main factors which include patient age and health status alongside other administered medications.

Expert (Lisa Pechey) Recommended Read:-Choosing the Right Remedy for Erectile Dysfunction

Dosage Guidelines

People should take a single tablet an hour before their  sexual desire encounter. A person should consume the pill with water and avoid chewing it. The tablet should be taken an hour before intercourse and should be swallowed with water while avoiding any manipulation of the tablet by breaking, cutting or crushing it. The medicine should not be used with heavy fatty diets before intake since food absorption will be delayed.

Doctors strongly advise taking one medication tablet per day. A doctor should always be consulted when planning to adjust dosage levels.

Expert (Lisa Pechey) Recommended Read:-What To Do In Case Of Sildenafil Overdose?

Side Effects of Sildenafil

Multiple factors exist which lead to side effects appearing during medication administration. Even if side effects occur, they do not necessarily require medical attention. A drug may benefit one person while showing no such effects in another individual.

All substances display some form of danger to our health. People should observe their responses after drug usage while giving complete information to their doctor.

• Headache
• Flushing
• Indigestion
• Nasal Congestion
• Dizziness
• Visual Disturbances
• Back Pain
• Priapism

Precautions and Warnings

Sildenafil is not suitable for patients who consume high blood pressure or heart problem medications like angina and nitrate drugs. Sildenafil does not provide any protection against diseases which require the use of protection measures. Grapefruit or grapefruit juice consumption during medication with this drug will amplify unwanted effects so patients should steer clear of them.

The package label includes a date which indicates when the medication should be used before discarding it because stale or dangerous conditions may exist. No one should consume Sildenafil if they have a known allergy to the substance components in this medication. Before taking Sildenafil your physician will advise you to get medical clearance specifically for kidney or liver problems.

Expert (Lisa Pechey) Recommended Read:- Precautions and Safety Tips

What Are Alternatives To Sildenafil?

Tadalafil

Vardenafil

Avanafil