Sildenafil 20mg

Sildenafil 20mg — Uses and Benefits

Sildenafil 20mg is mainly prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction in men and, in certain forms and strengths, to manage pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs).

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating erectile dysfunction (difficulty getting or keeping an erection)
• Managing pulmonary arterial hypertension, as prescribed by a specialist

HOW IT WORKS

• It relaxes and widens blood vessels by blocking an enzyme called PDE-5
• This increases blood flow to specific areas, helping achieve an erection when sexually stimulated
• In pulmonary hypertension, it helps reduce pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a cure for erectile dysfunction; it only helps during sexual activity
• It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
• It is not meant for women or children
• It should not be used purely for recreational or performance-enhancement purposes without medical advice

How to Use Sildenafil 20mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually about an hour before sexual activity
• Can be taken with or without food, but a heavy, fatty meal may delay how quickly it works
• Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours unless your doctor tells you to
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless advised

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• This medicine is usually taken as needed, not on a fixed daily schedule, so a missed dose is not usually an issue
• If it has been prescribed for daily use (such as for pulmonary hypertension), take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for the next dose
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Sildenafil 20mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Flushing (redness/warmth of face)
• Indigestion
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Blurred vision or changes in colour vision
• Back pain or muscle pain
• Nausea
• Sleep disturbances

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Sudden decrease or loss of hearing
• An erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism)
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat during or after sexual activity
• Severe allergic reaction (swelling of face/lips, difficulty breathing, rash)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Sildenafil 20mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are taking nitrate medicines (for chest pain/angina) in any form
• Have had a recent heart attack, stroke, or serious heart problem
• Have very low blood pressure
• Are allergic to sildenafil or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Are a woman or child (not approved for use in these groups)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have heart disease, irregular heartbeat, or blood pressure problems
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of eye problems, especially a condition called NAION
• Have a stomach ulcer or bleeding disorder
• Have a deformity of the penis or a condition that may cause prolonged erection

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Nitrates (used for chest pain) — dangerous drop in blood pressure
• Alpha-blockers used for blood pressure or prostate problems
• Other PDE-5 inhibitors
• Certain antifungal or antibiotic medicines
• Recreational drugs containing nitrates (poppers)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

Excessive alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure, so it is best to limit alcohol intake.

How long does this medicine take to work?

It usually starts working within 30-60 minutes, but this can vary from person to person.

Can I take this medicine daily?

• It is usually taken only when needed, but your doctor may prescribe regular dosing for certain medical conditions.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.