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Generic Name: sildenafil

A phosphodiesterase inhibitor - It is used to treat erection problems in men

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What is this medicine?

SILDENAFIL (sil DEN a fil) is used to treat erection problems in men.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

eye or vision problems, including a rare inherited eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa
heart disease, angina, high or low blood pressure, a history of heart attack, or other heart problems
kidney disease
liver disease
stroke
an unusual or allergic reaction to sildenafil, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. The dose is usually taken 1 hour before sexual activity. You should not take the dose more than once per day. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. This medicine is not used in children for this condition.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

cisapride
methscopolamine nitrate
nitrates like amyl nitrite, isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, nitroglycerin
nitroprusside
other sildenafil products (Revatio)

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

certain drugs for high blood pressure
certain drugs for the treatment of HIV infection or AIDS
certain drugs used for fungal or yeast infections, like fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, and voriconazole
cimetidine
erythromycin
rifampin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

If you notice any changes in your vision while taking this drug, call your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible.

Call your health care provider right away if you have any change in vision.

Contact you doctor or health care professional right away if the erection lasts longer than 4 hours or if it becomes painful. This may be a sign of a serious problem and must be treated right away to prevent permanent damage.

If you experience symptoms of nausea, dizziness, chest pain or arm pain upon initiation of sexual activity after taking this medicine, you should refrain from further activity and call your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible.

Using this medicine does not protect you or your partner against HIV infection (the virus that causes AIDS) or other sexually transmitted diseases.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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