ACTIVE HALF-LIFE:
5-12 hours
CLASSIFICATION:
PDE5 Inhibitor
DOSAGE:
Recommended for men at 25-200 mg/day
ACNE:
No
WATER RETENTION:
No
HBR:
Possible
HEPATOTOXICITY:
No
AROMATIZATION:
No
MANUFACTURER:
Pfizer
WAREHOUSE:
International Warehouse 2
SUBSTANCE:
Sildenafil
What Is VIAGRA and How Does It Work?
VIAGRA, a renowned phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, is designed to enhance blood flow to the penis by relaxing blood vessels, allowing for an erection when sexually stimulated. It's important to note that VIAGRA is specifically formulated for men experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition that impedes the ability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity.
Key Considerations Before Use
- Consult your doctor if you are currently on nitrate medications, as this combination can lead to dangerously low blood pressure. - Avoid using nitric oxide donors (like amyl nitrite, or "poppers") due to similar risks. - Disclose any allergies to sildenafil or other components in VIAGRA. - Be cautious if you have severe heart or liver conditions, a history of stroke or heart attack, or low blood pressure. - Inform your doctor if you have rare genetic eye disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa or a history of vision loss due to non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
Do Not Take VIAGRA If You:Inform your healthcare provider if you have: - Sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or multiple myeloma. - A penis deformity or Peyronie?s disease. - Cardiovascular issues that may require monitoring before engaging in sexual activity. - A stomach ulcer or bleeding disorders like hemophilia.
Special Precautions with VIAGRA:If you experience a sudden decrease or loss of vision, stop using VIAGRA and seek medical advice immediately. Do not combine VIAGRA with other erectile dysfunction treatments without consulting your doctor.
Important Information for Children and Adolescents
VIAGRA is not suitable for individuals under the age of 18.
Considerations for Patients with Kidney or Liver Issues
If you have kidney or liver concerns, inform your healthcare provider, as they may suggest a lower dosage.
Medication Interactions
Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs. VIAGRA can interact with certain medications, particularly those for chest pain. In emergencies, let healthcare professionals know if you've taken VIAGRA and the timing of the dose.
Avoid using VIAGRA with nitrates due to the risk of severe hypotension. If you're on protease inhibitors for HIV, your doctor may prescribe a lower starting dose of VIAGRA (25 mg).
Patients on alpha-blockers for hypertension or prostate issues may experience dizziness when combining them with VIAGRA. To minimize this, establish a daily alpha-blocker dose before taking VIAGRA.
Taking VIAGRA with Food and Drink
You may take VIAGRA with or without food; however, a heavy meal may delay its effectiveness. Excessive alcohol consumption can also hinder your ability to achieve an erection.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
VIAGRA is not intended for use by women.
Driving and Operating Machinery
VIAGRA may cause dizziness or affect your vision. Exercise caution and assess how it affects you before driving or operating machinery.
Important Ingredient Information
Consult your doctor if you have a sugar intolerance, such as lactose, before taking VIAGRA.
How to Use VIAGRA
Always adhere to your doctor?s instructions regarding VIAGRA. The typical initial dose is 50 mg, and you should not exceed one dose per day. Take VIAGRA about an hour before sexual activity, swallowing the tablet whole with water. If the effects are too strong or too weak, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
VIAGRA requires sexual stimulation to induce an erection, with onset generally between 30 minutes to one hour. Longer onset times may occur with heavy meals. If you do not achieve an erection or if it does not last long enough for intercourse, consult your doctor.
Dosages over 100 mg do not enhance effectiveness; always follow your prescribed dosage. Contact your doctor if you exceed the advised number of tablets.
If you have further questions about this medication, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Possible Side Effects
As with all medications, side effects may occur, but not everyone will experience them. Common side effects include mild to moderate headaches (affecting more than 1 in 10 patients) and may include facial flushing, indigestion, vision effects (color tinge, light sensitivity, blurred vision), nasal congestion, and dizziness.
Serious side effects include chest pain during intercourse, prolonged erections lasting over 4 hours, sudden vision loss, and allergic reactions such as wheezing or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these, seek immediate medical attention.
Rare side effects may occur, including high or low blood pressure, fainting, stroke, and sudden hearing loss. Report any severe side effects or any unlisted symptoms to your doctor.
Storage Instructions
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Store at temperatures below 30шC.
- Maintain in original packaging to guard against moisture.
Do not use VIAGRA after the expiration date indicated on the carton. Dispose of unused medications responsibly; consult your pharmacy for environmentally safe disposal methods.