Sildenafil

• Sildenafil Citrate

Sildenafil citrate is commonly prescribed as a treatment for erectile dysfunction. This eMedTV segment provides a detailed overview of the drug, including how long it takes to start working and what to tell your healthcare provider before taking it.

• What Is Sildenafil Citrate Used For?

What is sildenafil citrate used for? Sildenafil citrate is used mainly to treat erectile dysfunction. This eMedTV segment outlines sildenafil citrate uses, including off-label uses like treating pulmonary hypertension or Raynaud's phenomenon.

• Side Effects of Sildenafil Citrate

Dizziness, diarrhea, and headache are a few common side effects of sildenafil citrate. This eMedTV article also lists rare side effects of the drug (like gout, fainting, and vomiting) and advises talking to your doctor if side effects occur.

• Dosage of Sildenafil Citrate

The starting dosage of sildenafil citrate is 50 mg one hour before sexual activity. This eMedTV page also lists the maximum recommended sildenafil citrate dose (100 mg) and factors that can affect your dosage (such as other drugs you may be taking).

• Drug Interactions With Sildenafil Citrate

As this eMedTV page explains, nitrates and alpha blockers are among the drugs that can potentially interact with sildenafil citrate. Drug interactions with sildenafil citrate can change how your body metabolizes the drugs, among other things.

• Precautions and Warnings for Sildenafil Citrate

Some precautions and warnings for sildenafil citrate listed on this eMedTV page include possible drug interactions, people who shouldn't take the drug (like those taking a nitrate for angina), and the risk of a prolonged erection in some men taking it.

• Generic Sildenafil Citrate

As this eMedTV Web page explains, the soonest that a generic sildenafil citrate could be available is 2012, when the patent for sildenafil citrate expires. At that time, several companies should begin manufacturing a generic version of the drug.