Sildenafil (By Mouth)

Sildenafil (sil-DEN-a-fil)

Treats impotence (problems having sex) by helping you have an erection.

Brand Name(s):

Viagra
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to sildenafil or if you are using nitrate medicines such as nitroglycerin (Nitro-bid®, Nitro-Dur®, Transderm Nitro®, Nitrol® Ointment, Nitrolingual® Spray) or isosorbide (Imdur®, Monoket®, Ismo®, Isordil®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Sildenafil is for men who have trouble getting and maintaining an erection. It will not make a normal erection last longer or occur more often. This medicine is not for men who have normal sexual function.
• You may be told to take one dose of medicine about one hour before you have sex.
• It is best to not eat a high-fat meal before using this medicine, because it may take longer for the medicine to work.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine is used when you want to have an erection. You should not use the medicine more often than one time each day.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Certain drugs should not be used while using sildenafil. Using these drugs can cause very serious medical problems.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using cimetidine (Tagamet®), indinavir (Crixivan®), or medicines to treat infection such as erythromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, or rifampin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you have heart disease or any type of heart problems, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, bone marrow tumors, a bleeding disorder, a stomach ulcer, or an eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa. Before using this medicine, tell your doctor if you have curved or abnormally-shaped penis.
• This medicine should not be given to women, children, or babies.
• This medicine will not keep your partner from getting pregnant. It will not protect you or your partner from diseases such as syphilis, herpes, or HIV. Use a latex condom for protection. Make sure you understand and practice safe sex.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• An erection that is painful or lasts longer than four hours
• Lightheadedness or fainting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Blurred vision, eye sensitivity to light, seeing a blue or green haze
• Flushing (warmth or redness in your face and neck)
• Headache
• Indigestion

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.