ACTIVE HALF-LIFE
5-12 hours
CLASSIFICATION
PDE5 inhibitor
DOSAGE
Men 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 leading medication in the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor category, works by relaxing blood vessels in the penis to enhance blood flow during sexual arousal. It's essential to note that sexual stimulation is required for an erection to occur. This powerful treatment is specifically tailored for men facing erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, which hinders the ability to obtain or sustain a firm erection suitable for sexual activity.
Key Considerations Before Using VIAGRA
- Avoid if you are on nitrates, as this can lead to dangerously low blood pressure. Inform your doctor if you use medications commonly prescribed for angina or chest pain. - Do not use with nitric oxide donors like amyl nitrite ("poppers") due to the risk of severe blood pressure drops. - Consult your doctor if you have a known allergy to sildenafil or other VIAGRA ingredients. - Those with serious heart or liver conditions should exercise caution. - Recently had a stroke or heart attack? Or suffer from low blood pressure? Consult your healthcare provider. - Those with specific inherited eye conditions or a history of vision loss due to non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) should also avoid this medication.
Do Not Use VIAGRA If:- You have sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or multiple myeloma. - There are deformities such as Peyronie?s Disease. - You experience heart issues; your doctor will evaluate your heart's capacity for sexual activity. - You have a stomach ulcer or bleeding disorders like hemophilia.
Exercise Caution with VIAGRA If You:If you notice sudden vision loss or decrease while using VIAGRA, seek immediate medical attention. Avoid using it alongside other oral or topical erectile dysfunction treatments.
Guidelines for Children and Adolescents
VIAGRA is not suitable for individuals under 18 years of age.
Special Considerations for Kidney and Liver Conditions
Notify your doctor about any kidney or liver issues, as they may recommend a lower dosage.
Interactions with Other Medications
Keep your healthcare provider informed about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter products. VIAGRA may interact with certain medicines, particularly those for chest pain. In emergencies, always disclose that you have taken VIAGRA and when. Never combine with nitrates without a doctor's approval, as it can lead to dangerously low blood pressure.
If you are on protease inhibitors (e.g., for HIV), your doctor may suggest starting with a lower dose (25 mg) of VIAGRA.
Patients using alpha-blockers for high blood pressure or prostate enlargement may experience dizziness or light-headedness after taking VIAGRA. To minimize this risk, ensure a consistent daily dosage of your alpha-blocker before starting VIAGRA, and your doctor may initiate you on a lower dose.
Taking VIAGRA with Food and Alcohol
VIAGRA can be taken with or without food, but its effects may take longer to manifest if consumed with a heavy meal. Limit alcohol intake before using VIAGRA for optimal results, as excessive alcohol can hinder erection ability.
Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
VIAGRA is not intended for women.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Given that VIAGRA may cause dizziness and affect vision, evaluate your personal response to the medication before driving or handling machinery.
Important Information Regarding Ingredients
If you have a sugar intolerance, particularly to lactose, consult your doctor before using VIAGRA.
How to Use VIAGRA
Always adhere to your doctor's instructions when taking VIAGRA. If in doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist. The typical starting dose is usually 50 mg. Do not exceed one dose per day. Take VIAGRA about one hour before engaging in sexual activity, swallowing the tablet whole with water.
If you feel the effects of VIAGRA are too intense or insufficient, discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist. Remember, VIAGRA is effective only when sexual stimulation occurs, usually taking about 30 minutes to an hour to work, although it may take longer after a heavy meal.
If VIAGRA does not lead to an erection, or if the erection does not last long enough for intercourse, consult your physician.
Overdose
Taking more VIAGRA than prescribed can increase side effects without enhancing effectiveness. Do not exceed your doctor?s recommended dosage. Contact your doctor if you take more than the advised amount.
For any further inquiries about this medication, please reach out to your doctor or pharmacist.
Possible Side Effects
As with any medication, VIAGRA may cause side effects, but not everyone will experience them. Reported side effects are generally mild to moderate and temporary.
- If you experience chest pain during or after sex, seek medical attention. - VIAGRA may trigger allergic reactions; if you experience sudden wheezing, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat, seek immediate help. - Prolonged and painful erections have been reported; if an erection lasts more than four hours, seek medical assistance promptly.
Common side effects (occurring in more than 1 in 10 patients) include headaches, facial flushing, indigestion, vision changes (color tinge, light sensitivity, blurred vision), nasal congestion, and dizziness.
Less Common Side Effects (1 in 100 to 1 in 10 patients):Vomiting, skin rashes, eye complications, irregular heartbeat, muscle discomfort, ringing in the ears, and chest pain.
Rare Side Effects (1 in 10000 or fewer):Serious events such as heart attacks or strokes have been reported in men with prior heart issues, although it?s unclear if these are related to VIAGRA. Instances of severe skin reactions have also been noted.
If any side effects become severe or if you notice side effects not mentioned here, inform your doctor immediately.
Storage Instructions
- Keep VIAGRA out of reach of children.
- Store below 30шC.
- Keep in the original packaging to protect from moisture.
- Do not use after the expiration date stated on the carton, which refers to the last day of that month.
Medicines should not be disposed of in wastewater or household waste. Consult your pharmacist for proper disposal methods to protect the environment.