| name | Sildenafil |
| classification | Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor |
| pharmacokinetics | Rapidly absorbed following oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations typically achieved within 30-120 minutes. Metabolism primarily occurs in the liver. Elimination half-life is approximately 4 hours, but can be prolonged in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. |
| suggested dosage | Recommended starting dose is 50 mg taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. Doses can be adjusted up to a maximum of 100 mg, based on efficacy and tolerability. Do not exceed 100mg daily. |
| indications | Treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) |
| safety in pregnancy | Not indicated or studied for use in pregnant women. Potential risks to the fetus are unknown. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Limited data available; caution advised. Sildenafil and its metabolites may be present in breast milk. |
| side effects | | 1 | Headache | | 2 | Flushing | | 3 | Nasal congestion | | 4 | Visual disturbances (e.g., blue-tinted vision, blurred vision) | | 5 | Dyspepsia | | 6 | Myalgia | | 7 | Back pain | | 8 | Pruritus | | 9 | Hypotension | | 10 | Syncope |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Patients with known hypersensitivity to sildenafil or any components of the formulation | | 2 | Patients with significant cardiovascular disease (e.g., unstable angina, recent myocardial infarction, stroke) | | 3 | Patients taking nitrates or nitric oxide donors (e.g., isosorbide dinitrate, glyceryl trinitrate) | | 4 | Patients with retinitis pigmentosa or other pre-existing retinal disorders |
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| interactions | | 1 | | drug | Nitrates (e.g., isosorbide dinitrate, glyceryl trinitrate) | | effect | Potentially life-threatening hypotension |
| | 2 | | drug | Alpha-blockers | | effect | Additive hypotensive effects |
| | 3 | | drug | Certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS | | effect | Potential for interaction; consult with healthcare provider |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider before starting sildenafil | | 2 | Monitor for and manage potential adverse effects, especially vision disturbances. | | 3 | Avoid alcohol consumption in combination with sildenafil | | 4 | Consult a healthcare provider if you experience prolonged or severe erection lasting for more than 4 hours (priapism) |
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| additional information | Dosage adjustment may be necessary in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. |
