Sildenafil

Sildenafil is authorized by Health Canada for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It helps stimulate the body’s normal response to increase blood flow to the penis. Sildenafil is also Health Canada approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, where it relaxes the blood vessels that are located in the chest near the lungs and heart. This ultimately reduces the workload of the heart by increasing the supply of blood to the lungs.

Sildenafil belongs to a group of medications called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. This class of medications ultimately increases blood flow to the penis by preventing an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type-5 from working too quickly. By controlling the enzyme, Sildenafil helps promotes erections in men who have difficulty getting or staying erect, making it the go to drug for erectile dysfunction.

Typically, the amount of Sildenafil in the bloodstream correlates to how long the effects can last. With that being said, Sildenafil’s effect is strongest 2-4 hours after it’s taken, and could last up to 8-12 hours. Please seek medical attention if you feel like you are experiencing a longer than expected erection that lasts more than 4 hours (priapism).

Sildenafil usually begins to work for erectile dysfunction within 30 minutes of taking it on an empty stomach. Taking the medication on an empty stomach is recommended due to the effect food can have on the absorption of Sildenafil. It then continues to work for up to 4-5 hours, with its peak effect being 1-2 hours after it’s taken. How long the medication lasts may differ depending on the individual. Keep in mind that Sildenafil makes it easier to get and maintain an erection, but will only work when an individual is sexually aroused.

Sildenafil comes in 3 doses – 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. A starting dose of 50mg is usually prescribed if you have not previously used this medication or if you are taking other medications, which may cause potential side effects. Our clinical team will decide what’s best based on your medical questionnaire. Dosing is increased/decreased as needed to achieve the desired effects while taking into account medical conditions amongst other factors.

Taking more Sildenafil than prescribed is considered to be too much. Even If you are planning to have sex more than once per day, you should not take more than your prescribed dose in one day. Considering there are a few options in terms of prescription dosage (25mg, 50mg or 100mg), please reach out to our providers if you feel that your prescribed dose is not working effectively.

Absolutely. According to many clinical trials, Sildenafil was seen to improve erections in approximately 2/3 of men. If it does not work for you the first time you take it, don’t be discouraged. Some men stated that they needed to give their body time to get used to the medication, making them try it a few times before they were able to establish whether or not it works for them. Still not satisfied with the effects of Sildenafil after you try it? Please reach out to our providers so that we can work with you to help you get there.

The most common reported side effects of Sildenafil include, but are not limited to, lowered blood pressure, dizziness, back pain, headache, muscle aches, gastrointestinal discomfort, blurred vision, flushing, stuffy or running nose, trouble sleeping and diarrhea. If these side effects become persistent and/or bothersome, please contact your provider to discuss whether or not the medication should be stopped. If you start to experience rare, but serious, side effects such as a prolonged painful erection for longer than 4 hours (priapism), sudden loss of vision, double vision, hearing problems, convulsions, trouble breathing or hives- please seek medical attention immediately.

Although Sildenafil has been shown to be safe for most men, it may not be suitable with certain medical conditions, and sometimes it may be used but only if extra care is taken. For these reasons, men with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart conditions or blood vessel disease, any injury or deformity of the penis, low blood pressure or angina, history of stroke or heart attack, liver or kidney problems, bleeding conditions that cause ulcers, and any eye condition causing loss of vision, may be subject to adverse reactions. Please inform our providers if you suffer from any of these conditions or if you are taking any medications (prescribed or over the counter) that may interact with Sildenafil.

Before taking Sildenafil, please inform your provider if you are taking any medications that are known to interact with Sildenafil. Some prescription medications that interact with. Sildenafil include alpha-blockers, other PDE5 inhibitors (tadalafil, vardenafil), oral antifungal medicines (ketoconazole, itraconazole), antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin), nitrates (nitroglycerin), guanylate cyclase stimulators (riociguat) and HIV protease inhibitors (ritonavir, atazanavir sulfate, saquinavir).

Sildenafil stands as a prominent member of the erectile dysfunction medication family. It's the generic version of Viagra®. However, the world of erectile dysfunction medications is vast. Drugs like Tadalafil (Cialis) and Vardenafil (Levitra) also combat ED, albeit with different active ingredients and duration of effects. While Sildenafil is known for its quick onset and duration of up to 8-12 hours, others might offer longer windows of opportunity. Discussing your lifestyle and preferences with a healthcare professional can help pinpoint the right choice.

Moderation is key. While an occasional glass of wine or beer might not be harmful, excessive alcohol can hinder the medication's effectiveness and exacerbate side effects. Alcohol can also induce a drop in blood pressure, which when combined with Sildenafil, can lead to dizziness or fainting.

Heart conditions, especially those involving nitrate medications, can be a contraindication. Sildenafil can amplify the effects of these drugs, leading to a dangerous and sudden drop in blood pressure. Also, certain blood disorders, liver or kidney issues, or anatomical deformities of the penis can affect Sildenafil's suitability. Always provide a detailed medical history to your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Yes, a valid prescription is needed to purchase Sildenafil in Canada. While some online platforms might offer Sildenafil without one, it's crucial to source this medication from reliable sources, like our Canadian Pharmacy, to ensure authenticity, safety and Health Canada Approved medication.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with Sildenafil, potentially increasing its levels in your blood, leading to heightened side effects. It's best to discuss your diet with a medical practitioner.

Store Sildenafil in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight at room temperature. Ensure it's out of reach of children and pets at all times.

As an as-needed medication, there's no routine dose to miss. However, if you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects like chest pain, seek medical attention immediately. If you experience a prolonged erection for more than 4 hours, seek medical attention immediately.

Sildenafil doesn't induce physical dependence. However, some men might develop a psychological reliance, equating its consumption with sexual performance. If such concerns arise, seeking medical advice is recommended.