Understanding what sildenafil citrate is used for is very important for men with erectile dysfunction who are looking for an option to improve sexual performance. Stay tuned!
Erectile dysfunction is a condition that affects 15 million Brazilians, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The main impact is on sexual life, but emotional well-being and self-esteem are also compromised.
The situation these men find themselves in is vulnerable, which often leads them to resort to this medication—sometimes without knowing exactly what sildenafil citrate is used for, whether it will actually help, or if there are side effects.
What is sildenafil?
Sildenafil is a compound that belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.
It was originally developed to treat pulmonary hypertension, but its ability to improve blood flow to the corpora cavernosa of the penis made it widely known for its effectiveness in treating erectile dysfunction.
Commercially, it hit pharmacies in 1998, and more than 150 million pills have been sold according to the manufacturer who launched the drug.
What is sildenafil citrate used for?
This medication is used to treat certain cases of erectile dysfunction, a condition in which a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for penetration or to complete sexual intercourse.
Sildenafil citrate helps relax the blood vessels in the corpora cavernosa of the penis. When these structures are relaxed, the blood flow needed for an erection is facilitated, and consequently, it helps achieve an erection.
However, its effect only occurs with arousal and sexual stimulation, as the medication is not a sexual stimulant—in other words, it does not cause spontaneous erections.
Is it safe to take sildenafil?
Sildenafil is a safe drug, approved by major regulatory authorities worldwide, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States and the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (Anvisa) in Brazil.
However, its safety can only be guaranteed when used under medical supervision. It is essential to consult a professional before taking the drug, even occasionally, to check your overall health and avoid dangerous interactions.
Concerns about the drug’s safety arise from cases of men who suffered heart attacks after use. However, it has been verified that the cause was not the medication itself but excessive and prolonged effort during intercourse, especially among older men who are more prone to this risk.
How to take sildenafil for erectile dysfunction?
To treat erectile dysfunction, sildenafil citrate should be taken approximately 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity, so that it has time to take effect. The medication is sold in pill form, making it easy to consume.
The typical dose varies and should be recommended by a doctor. It can be adjusted depending on the response and side effects noted.
It is very important to emphasize that the use should remain restricted to what sildenafil citrate is used for—i.e., the treatment of erectile dysfunction—and that sexual arousal makes a difference in achieving and maintaining an erection.
How long does sildenafil citrate last?
The effect of sildenafil citrate can last up to 6 hours, but this can vary depending on factors such as arousal, general health, and metabolism—this is the maximum time it stays active in the body.
However, this duration depends on many factors, such as arousal, metabolism, health conditions, and potential interactions with other medications a man is taking.
Is it harmful to take sildenafil citrate every day?
It is not recommended to use the medication daily after understanding what sildenafil citrate is used for. Excessive use can lead to unwanted side effects.
In most cases, doctors suggest the sporadic use of the medication, shortly before intercourse, limited to once a day. Other types of recommendations are rare.
Depending on the case of erectile dysfunction, the treatment may include Tadalafil, another type of medication that may or may not be indicated for daily use.
The most important thing is to follow what was prescribed by the doctor and regularly monitor your condition with the healthcare professional.
Side effects
Sildenafil citrate can have side effects, like any other medication. Some of the most common and bothersome ones include:
- Headaches
- Facial flushing (redness of the face)
- Indigestion
- Nasal congestion
In rarer cases, priapism may occur, a prolonged and painful erection that requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage to the erectile tissues.
Side effects are more likely to occur in men with certain pre-existing medical conditions, such as sickle cell anemia, or when the medication is taken irregularly.
What to do in case of side effects?
All side effects of sildenafil citrate should be reported to the doctor as soon as possible.
The professional will assess the severity and adjust the dosage or change the treatment if necessary to ensure the patient’s safety and effectiveness.
Contraindications
Sildenafil citrate is not ideal for all men.
Men with serious heart conditions should avoid using this medication.
Those who are taking nitrates (used to treat heart conditions) should also avoid it, as the combination may cause a drop in blood pressure.
Drug interactions
Sildenafil citrate may interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects or even reducing the effectiveness of the treatment. Therefore, it is essential to inform the doctor about any medications currently being taken.
Medications for high blood pressure and other drugs for erectile dysfunction are examples that tend to enhance side effects and interfere with treatment.
Can you take sildenafil without a prescription?
It is not recommended to take sildenafil citrate without a prescription, even though no prescription is required, and it is easily available at pharmacies.
Keep in mind that self-medication can lead to unwanted side effects and health complications.
Additionally, only a doctor can assess whether the drug is the most appropriate treatment for erectile dysfunction for that man.
The answer to the question “What is sildenafil citrate used for?” is simple: to treat erectile dysfunction. However, the knowledge and decisions needed to understand whether the medication will be effective and safe for you are far more complex.
Count on Dr. Paulo Egydio to learn more about the indications, side effects, contraindications, and drug interactions, and know that if sildenafil citrate doesn’t work, there are other alternatives for treating erectile dysfunction. Contact us.
Learn more:
- Male Self-Care: Why Is It Important for Health?
- Learn All About Enlarged Prostate: Causes, Diagnosis, and Recommended Treatments
- Does Stress Decrease Libido? Learn How to Identify and Treat It
- What Is Ejaculation? Answers to Your Main Questions
- Consequences of Male Sexual Abstinence and the Problems It Can Cause
- 10 Tips for Penis Care to Maintain Health and Prevent Infections and Diseases
- See What Causes Erectile Dysfunction and Available Treatments
- Prostate Surgery: What to Expect, Risks, and Recovery
- Gut Health and Sexual Function: The Connection
