Medication Name: Sildenafil
Pharmacological Class:
Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor
Active Ingredient:
Sildenafil citrate
Indications:
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Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Improves the ability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity.
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Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Lowers blood pressure in the lungs and improves exercise capacity (at lower doses).
Mechanism of Action:
Sildenafil inhibits the PDE5 enzyme, leading to increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in penile tissue. This enhances the natural erectile response to sexual stimulation by promoting smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow to the corpus cavernosum.
Dosage and Administration (for Erectile Dysfunction):
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Usual adult dose: 50 mg taken about 1 hour before sexual activity.
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May be adjusted to 25 mg or 100 mg depending on response and tolerability.
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Maximum: one dose per day.
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Take with water; can be taken with or without food (a high-fat meal may delay onset).
Dosage and Administration (for PAH):
Contraindications:
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Concurrent use with nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate) due to risk of severe hypotension.
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Severe cardiovascular disorders or recent myocardial infarction/stroke.
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Severe hepatic impairment or retinitis pigmentosa (use with caution).
Precautions:
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Use with caution in patients with hypotension, renal impairment, or peptic ulcer disease.
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Avoid alcohol, as it may increase side effects like dizziness or low blood pressure.
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Not intended for use in women or children.
Common Adverse Effects:
Serious Adverse Effects (rare):
Onset of Action:
Approximately 30–60 minutes after oral administration.
Duration of Effect:
Up to 4–5 hours.
Storage:
Store below 30°C, in a dry place away from light and moisture.
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