Sildenafil (Generic Viagra)

Uses of sildenafil citrate tablet

Uses of Sildenafil Citrate Tablet:

1. Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The primary use of Sildenafil Citrate is to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It works by improving blood flow to the penis, helping men achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused.

2. Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Sildenafil Citrate is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, a condition where the blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs is too high. By relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs, it helps lower blood pressure and reduces the heart’s workload.

3. Raynaud’s Phenomenon (Off-label use): Sildenafil may be used off-label to help treat Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition where blood vessels in the extremities constrict excessively, causing reduced blood flow and potential damage to fingers and toes.

4. High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) (Off-label use): Sildenafil may be used off-label to treat HAPE, a condition that occurs at high altitudes where fluid accumulates in the lungs, by improving blood flow and oxygen supply.

Sildenafil Citrate works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), an enzyme that regulates blood flow, allowing blood vessels to relax and increase circulation in the targeted areas.

Mechanism of Action:

• Inhibits PDE5 enzyme: Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. PDE5 is an enzyme that breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a molecule that helps relax smooth muscle cells and dilate blood vessels.
• Increases cGMP levels: By blocking PDE5, sildenafil prevents the breakdown of cGMP, allowing it to accumulate. Higher cGMP levels relax the smooth muscle cells in blood vessels, promoting better blood flow.
• Enhanced blood flow: In the penis, this increased blood flow makes it easier to get and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated. For pulmonary arterial hypertension, it reduces the pressure in lung arteries, easing the heart’s workload.

Sildenafil citrate side effects

Common Side Effects (usually mild):

• Headache
• Flushing (warmth, redness, especially in the face or chest)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Indigestion or upset stomach
• Vision changes (like a bluish tint, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light)
• Back pain or muscle aches

Sildenafil citrate Dosage & usage

• For ED, it’s usually taken about 30–60 minutes before sexual activity, but not more than once a day.
• For PAH, it’s often taken 3 times a day, as prescribed by a doctor.