Key facts about Sildenafil
What dosages is Sildenafil available in?
Sildenafil is available as a 20 mg tablet and a 10 mg/ml suspension.
What is Sildenafil used for?
Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE-5) blocker that treats pulmonary arterial hypertension.
How does Sildenafil work?
Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE-5) blocker that relaxes blood vessels in the lungs. This allows blood to flow better and lowers the blood pressure in the lungs. Your heart is able to pump better, your body gets more oxygen, and you should be able to breathe and exercise more easily. PDE-5 blockers also relax blood vessels in other parts of the body to increase blood flow, which is why they are also used for erectile dysfunction.
How do I take Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is typically taken as 10 mg or 20 mg by mouth 3 times a day.
Is it safe for me to take Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you are taking organic nitrates.
Sildenafil Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Sildenafil:
- Headaches
- Indigestion
- Flushing
- Nosebleed
- Diarrhea
- Trouble breathing
- Trouble sleeping
- Muscle pain
- Redness
- Fever
Sildenafil Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Sildenafil. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Erection lasting for more than 4 hours
- Vision loss
- Hearing loss
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Sildenafil
The following medications may interact with Sildenafil:
- Concomitant alpha-blockers or amlodipine: Note additive blood pressure lowering effects
- Use with ritonavir and other potent CYP3A inhibitors: Not recommended
- Concomitant PDE-5 inhibitors: Avoid use with Viagra or other PDE-5 inhibitors
Who makes Sildenafil?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Sildenafil safe in pregnancy?
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Sildenafil in pregnant women. You should talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are pregnant.













