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Author Details
Written By
Sakshi Anil More
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
Dr. Tejashwin Adiga
MBBS
Last updated : 18 May 2026 | 08:49 AM (IST)
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Quick Summary
SILDENAFIL
Last updated on 18 May 2026 | 08:49 AM (IST)
SILDENAFIL
Background and Date of approval SILDENAFIL
Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor which was approved for its medical use on 27th March 1998.
Uses of SILDENAFIL
Sildenafil is indicated to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. It increases exercise capacity in patients diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
How is SILDENAFIL administered?
Sildenafil is available as tablets in the doses 50mg and 100mg, injection in the dose 10mg and as a 5gm oral suspension. Your healthcare provider will administer the injection as an intravenous bolus three times a day. The tablet and oral suspension are recommended three times a day, 4-6 hours apart.
Side Effects of SILDENAFIL
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Sildenafil are headache, dyspepsia, flushing, insomnia, erythema, breathlessness and rhinitis. If you experience any allergic reactions after taking this medicine, report to your healthcare provider immediately.
Warnings
Sildenafil is not recommended for people who are hypersensitive to Sildenafil or its ingredients. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood pressure, heart function, liver and kidney parameters to prevent complications. Tell your healthcare provider if you have been diagnosed with heart problems, sickle cell anaemia, vision problems, stomach ulcer, or pulmonary veno-occlusive disease. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden loss of vision or hearing.
Precautions
Sildenafil is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it has the tendency to cause fetal harm. Tell your physician before starting this treatment if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. It is not known if Sildenafil passes into the breast milk. If you are a breastfeeding mother, your health care provider will suggest whether to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue this treatment based on your condition.
Word of Advice
Eat a well-balanced diet and consume plenty of water to maintain hydration. Monitor your blood pressure at regular intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.
Can you drink coffee before taking Sildenafil?
There are no known interactions between coffee and Sildenafil, but minor side effects are still likely to occur. Discuss with your physician regarding the foods you should avoid while on treatment with Sildenafil.
Q2.
How long does it take for Sildenafil to work?
Sildenafil starts working within 30 minutes of its administration and the effect usually lasts from 2 to 4 hours.
Q3.
How to store Sildenafil?
Store Sildenafil Injection and tablet at controlled room temperature and oral suspensions below 30°C or in a refrigerator.
Q4.
How is Sildenafil Injection administered?
Your healthcare provider will administer Sildenafil injection as an intravenous bolus three times a day. Sildenafil tablet and oral suspension are recommended three times a day, 4-6 hours apart.
Q5.
Who should not take Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is not recommended for pregnant women and patients who have experienced allergic reaction to Sildenafil or other ingredients.
Q6.
Is it safe to consume alcohol or smoke during Sildenafil treatment?
Avoid smoking cigarettes and alcohol consumption while on treatment with Sildenafil as it increases your risk of side effects.
References
- Pfizer Ltd., [Revised on Feb 2020] [Accessed on 11th Oct 2022], https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=645
- Smith BP, Babos M. Sildenafil, [Updated 2022 May 3], In: StatPearls [Internet], [Accessed on 11th Oct 2022], https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558978/
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.
