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Sildenafil Side Effects: What You Need to Know

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Published
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Written by- Julian Carter
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Sildenafil is an effective Erectile Dysfunction (ED) medicine that has transformed the lives of countless individuals. However, have you ever experienced headaches after using Sildenafil?

Headaches and nausea are among the most common side effects of Sildenafil in men. Continue reading the article to explore all Sildenafil side effects in detail and learn more about how to manage them.

Common side effects of Sildenafil

Sildenafil is a safe medicine that is FDA-approved for both Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). However, the side effects of this medication are a common concern for many.

A study states that flushing is the most common side effect of Sildenafil. However, the other common side effects of Sildenafil tablets include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Indigestion
  • Heartburn
  • Feeling of dizziness
  • Light sensitivity 
  • Stuffy nose

These side effects are mostly temporary and may resolve without any medical help. However, consult a doctor immediately if the problem becomes persistent.

Curious about the safety of Sildenafil for women? Read: Is Sildenafil For Women Safe?

Rare side effects of Sildenafil

Sildenafil (Viagra) can lead to some rare side effects that require immediate medical attention. These severe side effects include:

  • Sudden vision loss
  • Lightheadedness
  • Fainting
  • Chest pain
  • Vision problems
  • Hearing problems
  • Priapism (prolonged and painful erection)

Sildenafil can also lead to severe allergic reactions in very rare cases. Consult a doctor if you experience any of the side effects mentioned above.

Want to explore how to take Sildenafil to minimize the risk of side effects? Read: How to Take Sildenafil: A Comprehensive Guide for Safe and Effective Use

Warning:
Do not take Sildenafil more than once daily or combine it with other ED medicines, as it may lead to unwanted side effects.

A man clutching his chest in severe pain
Man suffering from chest pain

How to manage Sildenafil side effects

The thought of side effects may be concerning for many. However, some tips may help minimize the occurrence and impact of Sildenafil’s side effects.

Let us discuss these suggestions in detail.

Start with a lower dose: Most side effects are dose-dependent, meaning they are more likely to occur at higher doses. You should consult a doctor and start with a lower Sildenafil dosage to help reduce the risk of side effects.

Take as directed: You should follow the prescribed dosing instructions to maximize the benefits and minimize the side effects of Sildenafil. Avoid taking more than the recommended dose or using Sildenafil more frequently than prescribed.

Avoid grapefruit juice and alcohol: Alcohol and grapefruit juice are known to interact with Sildenafil and may lead to unwanted side effects. It’s best to avoid consuming these food items while taking Sildenafil.

Discover the risks of taking Sildenafil and alcohol in detail. Read: Sildenafil and Alcohol: Understanding the Risks

Be mindful of Sildenafil interactions: Sildenafil can interact with certain medications, including nitrates, alpha-blockers, and more. Brief your doctor about your current medicines to avoid potentially harmful interactions.

Change prescription: Your doctor may change your Sildenafil dosage or suggest other Erectile Dysfunction pills if you are experiencing side effects due to your current prescription.

Suggestion:
You should store Sildenafil tablets at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and reach of children.

Key takeaways

Sildenafil is a common prescription medicine for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) patients. However, users should be aware of the potential side effects of this medicine.

The most common side effects of Sildenafil include flushing, headaches, nausea, stuffy nose, and more. On the other hand, rare side effects of Sildenafil include vision problems, chest pain, hearing problems, Priapism, and more.

Most of the common Sildenafil side effects are usually temporary. However, you should immediately consult a doctor if you experience severe or prolonged side effects of Sildenafil.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to take Sildenafil for best results?

The best time to take Sildenafil is approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. However, Sildenafil’s effectiveness may vary for everyone. Consult a doctor for proper dosage and timing to achieve optimal results.

Is Sildenafil safe for the heart?

Yes, Sildenafil is generally safe for the heart. However, heart condition patients should consult their doctor before using Sildenafil.

Is it safe to take Sildenafil every day?

Yes, it is totally safe to take Sildenafil or Viagra every day as long as you have a valid prescription for the same. Follow your doctor’s advice regarding the appropriate dosage and frequency of Sildenafil use.

Does Sildenafil affect sperm quality?

No, Sildenafil does not affect sperm quality. Research suggests that sperms were not affected even by the highest recommended dose of Sildenafil 100mg. 

Can expired Sildenafil cause side effects?

Yes, expired Sildenafil can lead to side effects, as the medicine loses its strength and effectiveness. Also, using expired medication is not recommended as it may not work as it should. 

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