What is Sildenafil and how does it work?

Sildenafil is used to help men who have trouble achieving or maintaining their erection. Its active ingredient, sildenafil, belongs to a group of medications known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5).

Sildenafil helps relax the blood vessels in the penis, which, in the presence of sexual stimulation, allows blood to flow into the penis and helps achieving or maintaining an erection.

How do I take it?

The recommended starting dose is 50mg of the treatment once a day maximum (24 hours). For best results, take the medication whole with water on an empty stomach one hour before sexual activity as food will slow down the absorption and the effectiveness of Sildenafil.

How long does it take to work?

Sildenafil takes approximately 1 hour to work. It will not work without sexual stimulation. How long does it last? Sildenafil needs sexual stimulation for it to work and its effects can last about four hours. This does not mean that you will have an erection for four hours, but rather that you have the potential for an improved erection within the timeframe.

What is the difference between Viagra and Sildenafil?

Viagra is a brand name for sildenafil citrate, which is also sold as a generic Sildenafil at different doses. They are essentially the same treatment, with the generic medicine sold at a more affordable price but medically equivalent in its efficacy, quality, and strength.

Can I buy Sildenafil over the counter?

You can buy Sildenafil from some UK pharmacies after a consultation with the pharmacist. However, not all pharmacies offer this service.

Can I take Sildenafil with other ED medications?

You should not take Sildenafil with any other PDE5 inhibitor unless it is advised by your doctor. If you would like to try different ED medications, you can do so as long as only 1 tablet is taken in a 24 hour period.

Common Side Effects

• pain in your back/muscles/head
• migraines
• getting flushed/going red
• indigestion
• feeling and or being sick
• getting a blocked or runny nose
• vision disturbances

Information Leaflet

Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.

• View the patient information leaflet for Sildenafil 25mg, 50mg, 100mg.