Sildenafil citrate works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which leads to increased blood flow to the penis. This increased blood flow helps to relax the smooth muscles in the penis, allowing for an erection to occur when sexual stimulation is present.
Here are the key uses of sildenafil citrate:
Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Sildenafil citrate is widely prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction. It helps men with ED achieve and maintain an erection that is suitable for sexual intercourse. It is important to note that sildenafil citrate does not cure the underlying causes of erectile dysfunction but provides temporary relief from the symptoms.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Sildenafil citrate is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries that supply the lungs.
Side Effects :
- Headache: One of the most common side effects is a headache, which may be mild to moderate in intensity.
- Flushing: Some individuals may experience flushing or a feeling of warmth and redness in the face, neck, or chest.
- Indigestion: Sildenafil citrate can cause indigestion, characterized by symptoms such as stomach discomfort, bloating, or acid reflux.
- Nasal congestion: It can cause a stuffy or runny nose.
- Visual disturbances: Some individuals may experience changes in color vision, blurred vision, or increased sensitivity to light.
Dosage :
Standard Dosage: The typical starting dose for most individuals is 50 milligrams (mg) of sildenafil citrate. This is usually taken approximately 1 hour before sexual activity.
Adjustment of Dosage: Depending on how well the medication works and the presence of any side effects, your healthcare professional may adjust the dosage. The dose can be increased to 100 mg for those who do not respond adequately to the 50 mg dose, or it can be decreased to 25 mg for those who experience side effects.
FAQs:
1. What is sildenafil citrate used for?
Ans. Sildenafil citrate is primarily used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It helps to improve erectile function and enable men to achieve and maintain erections suitable for sexual activity.
2. How does sildenafil citrate work?
Ans. Sildenafil citrate belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It works by inhibiting the enzyme PDE5, which relaxes the blood vessels in the penis, allowing for increased blood flow and the ability to achieve and sustain an erection.