


Sildenafil is a prescription medicine classified as a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, helping men maintain and achieve an erection suitable for sexual activity. In some cases, these tablets may also be used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by relaxing blood vessels in the lungs and improving blood circulation.
Key information about Sildenafil is summarized below:
| Product Name (Generic) | Sildenafil |
|---|---|
| Strengths | 20 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg |
| Drug Class | Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor |
| Primary Use | Treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) |
| Dosage Form | Oral tablets |
| Onset of Action | Usually begins working within 30 to 60 minutes |
| Duration of Effect | Effects typically last about 4 to 6 hours |
| Prescription Required | Yes |
| Storage | Store at 68°F-77°F (20°C-25°C); excursions permitted to 59°F-86°F (15°C-30°C). Keep at controlled room temperature. |
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Sildenafil tablets are primarily prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. This condition affects the ability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity. Doctors may prescribe this medication for:
In certain medical settings, Sildenafil may also be used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in adults. In this condition, the medication helps relax blood vessels in the lungs, improving blood flow and exercise capacity.
Sildenafil works by blocking an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5). The mechanism of action includes:
This increased blood flow to the penile tissues helps support and maintain an erection. These tablets do not cause an erection without sexual stimulation.
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking this medication.
For erectile dysfunction (ED):
For pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH):
Do not change your dose or stop taking Sildenafil without consulting your healthcare provider.
The appropriate Sildenafil dosage depends on the patient’s condition, treatment response, and medical history. Your healthcare provider will determine the correct dose.
Adult dosage for erectile dysfunction (ED):
| Treatment Stage | Recommended Dose |
|---|---|
| Starting dose | 50 mg taken about 1 hour before sexual activity |
| Dose adjustment | May decrease to 25 mg or increase to 100 mg |
| Maximum frequency | Once per day |
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Adult dosage for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH):
| Treatment | Recommended Dose |
|---|---|
| Standard dose | 20 mg taken three times daily |
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Dosage adjustments for special populations:
| Condition | Recommended Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Adults over 65 years | Consider starting at 25 mg |
| Severe kidney impairment | Starting dose of 25 mg may be recommended |
| Liver impairment | Starting dose of 25 mg may be recommended |
| Use with certain medications (e.g., CYP3A4 inhibitors) | A lower starting dose may be required |
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Most patients begin with a 50 mg dose. Depending on effectiveness and tolerance, the dose may be reduced to 25 mg or increased to 100 mg.
Taking more Sildenafil than prescribed may increase the likelihood and severity of side effects. If an overdose occurs:
Patients who may have taken too much Sildenafil should seek immediate emergency medical help or contact a poison control center.
Like all medications, Sildenafil tablets may cause side effects. Many reactions are mild and may improve as the body adjusts to treatment. However, some side effects may require medical attention.
Commonly reported Sildenafil side effects include:
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
Rarely, serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or irregular heartbeat have been reported in some patients taking Sildenafil. This is not a complete list of side effects. Contact your healthcare provider for medical advice about adverse reactions. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit MedWatch.
Sildenafil has vasodilatory effects that may temporarily decrease blood pressure. Patients with cardiovascular conditions or those taking blood pressure medications should consult a healthcare provider before using this medication. It should not be used with nitrate medications, as this combination may cause a severe and potentially life-threatening drop in blood pressure.
Important warnings associated with this medication include:
Before using these tablets, inform your healthcare provider if you have:
Sildenafil tablets are not indicated for use in females. There are limited data on its use during pregnancy, and animal studies have not shown harmful developmental effects. Sildenafil and its active metabolite may be present in human breast milk, and patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare provider before using this medication.
Sildenafil may interact with medications that affect blood pressure or alter its metabolism.
| Drug or Drug Class | Interaction Consideration |
|---|---|
| Nitrates (nitroglycerin, isosorbide) | Contraindicated due to risk of severe, life-threatening hypotension |
| Alpha-blockers | May cause additive blood pressure lowering and dizziness |
| Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ritonavir, ketoconazole, itraconazole) | Can significantly increase Sildenafil levels; a lower starting dose may be required |
| Antihypertensive drugs (e.g., amlodipine) | May enhance blood-pressure-lowering effects |
| CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., bosentan) | May reduce sildenafil levels and effectiveness |
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Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all supplements, over-the-counter drugs, and prescription medications they use before starting Sildenafil tablets.
Several medications may be used as alternatives for erectile dysfunction, depending on patient response and medical history.
| Brand Name | Active Ingredient | Drug Class |
|---|---|---|
| Cialis | Tadalafil | PDE5 inhibitor |
| Levitra | Vardenafil | PDE5 inhibitor |
| Stendra | Avanafil | PDE5 inhibitor |
| Spedra | Avanafil | PDE5 inhibitor |
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Brand availability may vary depending on location and pharmacy supply. A healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate option based on the patient’s symptoms and treatment response.
Prescription medications for erectile dysfunction may be costly at many U.S. retail pharmacies. Ordering Sildenafil online from Polar Bear Meds may help reduce overall costs while maintaining safety, quality, and reliability.
All Sildenafil orders require a valid prescription. Medications are dispensed by licensed pharmacies that comply with applicable pharmacy regulations and safety standards.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace expert medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Sildenafil is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and, in certain cases, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Always consult an authorized healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage. Individual results, side effects, and dosing needs may vary.

Dr. Jackson Miller is a board-certified medicine physician & hospitalist. He is a healthcare professional with a strong background in patient care. With years of experience and a patient-first approach, he believes the foundation of good health is a patient who feels informed and empowered. He contributes to medical content review, drawing on his background in clinical practice and patient education. He focuses on presenting health information in a clear, accurate, and accessible way to help readers make informed decisions. His work emphasizes clarity, evidence-based guidance, and understandable explanations of medical topics.
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