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Description
Viagra (sil-DEN-a-fil) belongs to a group of medicines that delay the enzymes called phosphodiesterases from working too quickly. The penis is one of the areas where these enzymes work. Viagra is used
to treat men who have erectile dysfunction (also called sexual impotence).
By controlling the enzyme phosphodiesterase, Viagra helps to maintain an erection that is produced when the penis i
s stroked. Without physical action to the penis, such as that occurring during sexual intercourse, Viagra will not work to cause an erection
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How should this medicine be used?
Doses range from 25 milligrams to 100 milligrams, depending on the drug's effect. The usual dose is 50 milligrams. If you are over 65, have liver or kidney problems, or are taking erythromycin, ketoco
nazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, or saquinavir a dose of 25 milligrams may be sufficient. Your doctor will adjust the dosage if the drug is not working properly for you.
Take Viagra only bef
ore sexual activity. The manufacturer recommends a maximum of 1 dose per day (1 dose every 2 days for those taking ritonavir).
To avoid low blood pressure, do not take the 50-milligram or 10
0-milligram dose of Viagra within 4 hours of taking an alpha-blocking drug such as Cardura.
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Precautions Before Using This Medicine
Breast-feeding¡XIt is not known whether Viagra passes into breast milk. Viagra is not indicated for use in women.
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Symptoms of overdose
Although there is no report for overdose of Viagra, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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Cautions
Use Viagra exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. If too much is used, the chance of side effects is increased.
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If
you experience a prolonged or painful erection for 4 hours or more, contact your doctor immediately. This condition may require prompt medical treatment to prevent tissue damage of the penis and possi
ble permanent impotence.
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Precautions Before Using This Medicine
The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of Viagra. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:
- Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) or
- Conditions causing thickened blood or slower blood flow, including leukemia; multiple myeloma (tumors of the bone marrow); or polycythemia, sickle cell disease, and thrombocythemia (blood problems)
or
- Priapism (history of)¡XAlthough Viagra does not cause priapism (erection lasting longer than 6 hours), patients with these conditions have an increased risk of priapism and it could occur w
ile using Viagra
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