Sildenafil
Uses of Sildenafil
Sildenafil is commonly used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension (Pah).
How Sildenafil Works
Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor. Sildenafil preventing the action of phosphodiesterase type-5 in the body for people with benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hyperplasia. By preventing the action of the said enzyme, the blood vessels are more relaxed hence allowing more blood to flow through.
Side Effects of Sildenafil
Headache, Dizziness, Dyspepsia, Visual disturbances, Flushing, Insomnia, Anxiety, Vertigo, Epistaxis, Nasal congestion, Fever, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Skin rashes, Muscle ache, Hearing disturbance, Fluid retention, Cough, Palpitations
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Dose adjustments not needed for patients with renal impairment including severe renal impairment. However, the dose should be reduced if therapy is not well-tolerated after consulting your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Both Sildenafil and alcohol have a blood pressure-lowering effect. Hence it will accentuate the side effects such as dizziness, fainting, flushing, headache and palpitations.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Animal studies have not shown any harmful effects on the foetus but there are no such data on pregnant women. Thus, Sildenafil usage is not recommended during pregnancy.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Sildenafil may cause side effects such as dizziness or visual disturbances, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Limited Data
Dose adjustment should be done in patients with mild to moderate liver disease. It is contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Limited Data
Although a very low level of active metabolites of Sildenafil is excreted into breastmilk, there are no clinical data showing the effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, Sildenafil usage should be cautious in breast-feeding mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
