Sildenafil is used to treat male sexual function problems (impotence or erectile dysfunction-ED). In combination with sexual stimulation, sildenafil works by increasing blood flow to the penis to help a man get and keep an erection.This drug does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV, hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis). Practice “safe sex” such as using latex condoms. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

How to use Sildenafil Tablet

Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking sildenafil and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

To treat erectile dysfunction-ED, take this drug by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually as needed. Take sildenafil at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours, before sexual activity (1 hour before is the most effective). Do not take more than once daily.

A high-fat meal may delay how quickly the drug begins to work.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Key facts

It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes for sildenafil to work for erectile dysfunction. You can take it up to 4 hours before you want to have sex.
Taking sildenafil alone will not cause an erection. You need to be aroused for it to work.
The most common side effects are headaches, feeling sick, hot flushes and dizziness. Many men have no side effects or only mild ones.
It can be dangerous to take sildenafil if you also take medicines called nitrates (often given for chest pain). The combination can cause a dangerous fall in your blood pressure. If you’re not sure if you’re taking a nitrate, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Sildenafil is called by the brand names Viagra (for erectile dysfunction) and Revatio (for pulmonary hypertension).
3. Who can and can’t take sildenafil
Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction (Viagra) can be taken by men aged 18 and over. It’s not for women or children.

Sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension (Revatio) can be taken by adults and children aged 1 and over.

Sildenafil is not suitable for some people.

Do not take sildenafil if you:

have had an allergic reaction to sildenafil (Viagra) or any other medicines in the past
are taking medicines called nitrates for chest pain
have a serious heart or liver problem
have recently had a stroke or a heart attack
have low blood pressure
have a rare inherited eye disease, such as retinitis pigmentosa
Check with your doctor before taking sildenafil if you:

have sickle cell anaemia (an abnormality of red blood cells), leukaemia (cancer of blood cells) or multiple myeloma (cancer of bone marrow)
have a deformity of your penis or Peyronie’s disease (curved penis)
have a heart problem. Your doctor should carefully check whether your heart can take the additional strain of having sex.
have a stomach ulcer or a bleeding problem like haemophilia