Sildenafil
A shorter-acting prescription option.
An FDA-approved oral medication for erectile dysfunction, taken as needed before sexual activity. Prescribed only after a physician evaluation of your heart health and current medications.
How sildenafil works.
Sildenafil blocks the PDE5 enzyme, which helps increase blood flow in response to sexual stimulation. It does not create arousal on its own. It is taken shortly before sexual activity, and a heavy meal can slow how quickly it takes effect.
- Men experiencing erectile dysfunction
- Patients who prefer an as-needed, shorter-acting option
- Patients whose physician determines it fits their health profile
Never with nitrates
Do not use with nitrate medications (such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide), recreational “poppers,” or riociguat. The combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Heart health comes first
Sexual activity places demand on the heart. Your physician reviews your cardiovascular history and blood pressure before prescribing.
Full medication review
Alpha-blockers, other blood-pressure medications, certain antifungal and HIV medications, and alcohol can interact. Tell your provider everything you take.
When to get help right away
Seek emergency care for an erection lasting more than four hours, chest pain, or sudden loss of vision or hearing.
- Physician evaluation supervised by Thomas Nabity, MD, including cardiovascular history and a full medication review
- FDA-approved medication dispensed through a licensed U.S. pharmacy
- Hormone and metabolic labs when your evaluation calls for them — see Hormone Optimization
- Follow-up to review how the medication is working for you and any side effects
Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra® and is available as an FDA-approved generic. Common side effects can include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, indigestion and back or muscle aches. This page is general information, not medical advice. Whether sildenafil is appropriate, and at what dose, is determined by your physician after an individualized evaluation. Individual results vary.