Sildenafil/Tadalafil

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

[sildenafil] Avigra, Dynafil, Revatio, Viagra, Videna

[tadalafil] Cialis, Ciavor

Drug group:

Drug for erectile dysfunction

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

• Sildenafil and tadalafil are used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) - they do not need to be taken regularly, only before sexual activity
• Sildenafil is also occasionally used to treat pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the arteries supplying the lungs)

How does it work?

Sildenafil and tadalafil are vasodilators, they prevent the muscle walls of the blood-filled chambers in the penis from relaxing.

How should it be used?

• Do not use sildenafil/tadalafil if you are using a nitrate - greatly increase effects
• For ED sildenafil/tadalafil should be taken 1 hour before sexual activity
• The drugs can take longer to work after food, especially a high-fat meal

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Erectile dysfunction: use as needed but maximum one dose daily; sildenafil 25–100mg per dose, tadalafil 10–20mg per dose
• Pulmonary hypertension: sildenafil total 60mg daily

How quickly will it start to work?

30 minutes                        

How long will the effects last?

Sildenafil 4 hours, tadalafil up to 36 hours         
        

When should I stop using it?

ED: drug can safely by stopped as soon as no longer needed.

Pulmonary hypertension: do not stop without consulting your doctor.

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• Common: headache, flushing, dizziness, indigestion, nasal congestion, blurred vision, altered colour vision
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: chest pain, painful erection lasting more than 4 hours

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: heart/liver/kidney problems, previous stroke or heart attack, low or high blood pressure, sickle cell anaemia, leukaemia, myeloma, inherited eye problems, abnormalities of the penis
• Other medicines: nitrates, antihypertensive drugs, cimetidine, erythromycin, nicorandil, ketoconazole (oral), antivirals
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not prescribed
• Children: Not prescribed under 18 years (except rarely for pulmonary hypertension)
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, can cause dizziness and altered vision
• Alcohol: No special problems