Sildenafil: instructions, use, reviews, price and analogues (Viagra, generics)
Sildenafil is the active ingredient in the world’s most famous erectile dysfunction (ED) drug, Viagra. This drug, as well as numerous generics of sildenafil, have helped millions of men regain their self-confidence and enjoy a fulfilling sex life. In this text, we will take a detailed look at sildenafil , its mechanism of action, indications for use, contraindications, possible side effects, interactions with other drugs, and compare the original drug and generics.
Sildenafil: What is this substance and how does it work?
Sildenafil is a selective phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. This means that it blocks the action of the PDE5 enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP, in turn, plays a key role in relaxing the smooth muscles of the corpora cavernosa of the penis and dilating blood vessels.
During sexual arousal, nitric oxide (NO) is released in the male body, activating the production of cGMP. Sildenafil , by blocking PDE-5, increases the concentration of cGMP in the cavernous bodies, which leads to:
- Smooth muscle relaxation: The muscles of the corpora cavernosa relax, allowing blood to flow freely into the penis.
- Dilation of blood vessels: The arteries that supply blood to the penis dilate, increasing blood flow.
- Erections: The cavernous bodies fill with blood, which results in a strong erection.
It is important to emphasize once again that sildenafil is not an aphrodisiac and does not cause sexual arousal. The drug only works with sexual stimulation.
What is sildenafil used for?
Sildenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men aged 18 years and over. ED is characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse.
Sildenafil may be effective for ED of various origins, including:
- Organic ED: caused by vascular diseases (atherosclerosis, hypertension), diabetes, neurological disorders (multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries), hormonal disorders.
- Psychogenic ED: caused by stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems.
- Mixed ED: a combination of organic and psychogenic factors.
Sildenafil helps:
- Achieve a strong erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.
- Maintain an erection throughout intercourse.
- Improve the quality of your sex life and regain your self-confidence.
Sildenafil release forms and dosages
Sildenafil is available in different forms and dosages:
- Film-coated tablets: The most common form of release. Available dosages: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg.
- Chewable tablets: Convenient dosage form that provides faster onset of action.
- Lozenges (sublingual): Also provide a quick effect due to the absorption of the active substance through the oral mucosa.
- Oral gel (jelly): Another convenient form of release, does not require drinking water and has a pleasant taste.
- Effervescent tablets Dissolve in water to form a pleasant drink.
The recommended starting dose of sildenafil is 50 mg. Depending on individual effectiveness and tolerability, the dose can be increased to 100 mg or decreased to 25 mg. The maximum daily dose is 100 mg. It is not recommended to take sildenafil more than once a day.
How to take sildenafil: instructions for use
Sildenafil is taken orally (except for sublingual tablets and oral gel), with or without food, approximately 30-60 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. Tablets should be taken with a sufficient amount of water.
Important recommendations:
- Sildenafil only works when sexually aroused.
- Eating fatty foods may delay the onset of action of the drug.
- The effect of taking sildenafil lasts on average 4-6 hours.
- Alcohol may increase side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the drug.
Contraindications to the use of sildenafil
Sildenafil has a number of contraindications, so before starting to take it, you should consult a doctor. The drug is not recommended in the following cases:
- Hypersensitivity to sildenafil or any other component of the drug.
- Concomitant use with nitrates (drugs used to treat angina) or nitric oxide donors in any form.
- Severe cardiovascular diseases (unstable angina, severe heart failure, recent myocardial infarction or stroke).
- Severe liver failure.
- Severe renal failure.
- Hereditary degenerative diseases of the retina (eg, retinitis pigmentosa).
- Age up to 18 years.
- Concomitant use with other drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Sildenafil side effects
Sildenafil is generally well tolerated. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects. The most common side effects are:
- headache
- Redness of the face
- Dyspepsia (upset stomach)
- Nasal congestion
- Dizziness
- Visual impairment (temporary change in color perception, blurred vision)
- Muscle pain
These side effects are usually mild and temporary and disappear on their own within a few hours. If side effects are severe or do not disappear over a long period of time, you should stop taking the medicine and consult a doctor.
Interaction of sildenafil with other drugs
Before you start taking sildenafil, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
Sildenafil is strictly contraindicated for use simultaneously with nitrates (eg, nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate) and nitric oxide donors, as this can lead to a dangerous decrease in blood pressure.
The drug should be taken with caution with alpha-blockers (drugs used to treat hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia), since the hypotensive effect may be enhanced.
Some other drugs, such as CYP3A4 inhibitors (eg, ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, ritonavir) may increase the concentration of sildenafil in the blood.
Original Sildenafil (Viagra) and Generics: What’s the Difference?
The original sildenafil drug, Viagra , was developed and patented by Pfizer. When the patent expired, other pharmaceutical companies were given the right to produce their own generic versions of the drug .
Generics contain the same active ingredient (sildenafil) and have the same effectiveness as the original Viagra. However, generics are usually much cheaper because their manufacturers do not have to spend money on the development and clinical testing of the original formula.
It is important to buy generic sildenafil only from trusted manufacturers that comply with international GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) quality standards.
Sildenafil in the USA: where to buy and how to choose?
Sildenafil (both the original Viagra and its generics) is available in the United States in pharmacies with a doctor’s prescription. Also, many online pharmacies offer a wide selection of sildenafil drugs from different manufacturers and in different forms of release.
When choosing a sildenafil drug in the USA, pay attention to:
- Manufacturer: Prefer well-known pharmaceutical companies with a good reputation.
- Availability of quality certificates Make sure that the product is certified and meets international standards.
- Price: Compare prices in different pharmacies, but do not chase the lowest price, as this may be a sign of a fake.
- Release form: Choose the release form that is most convenient for you (tablets, chewable tablets, gel, etc.).
- Reviews: Read reviews from other customers about the drug and the online pharmacy.
Remember that before you start taking sildenafil, you need to consult a doctor! He will help determine whether this drug is right for you, rule out contraindications and select the optimal dosage.
Sildenafil is an effective and safe drug that has helped millions of men around the world overcome erectile dysfunction and restore the joy of a full sexual life!