Sildenafil citrate, is one of the most
commonly sold drug for treating male erectile dysfunction or impotence. It
is also used for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The drug
was developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer.
It is a selective inhibitor of cyclic guanosine monophosphate specific
phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) When the sexual stimulation causes local
release of NO, inhibition of PDE5 by sildenafil causes incresaed loevel of
cGMP in the corpus cavernosum resulting in smooth muscle relaxation and
inflow of blood to the corpus cavernosum.
Brand Name: Viagra, Revatio
Iupac Name:
1-[4-ethoxy-3-(6,7-dihydro-1-methyl-7-oxo-3-propyl-1H-pyrazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidin-5-yl)phenylsulfonyl]-4-methylpiperazine
citrate
Dosage
The recommended dose is 50 mg per day as needed, appx 1 hour before sexual
activity. Based on effectiveness and toleration, the dose may be increased
to a maximum recommended dose of 100 mg or decreased to 25 mg.
Contra- Indications: In patients, on nitrate therapy and with a
known hypersensitivity to any component of the tablet
Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in different
ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are often associated
with the drug:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Dyspepsia
- Nasal congestion
- Abnormal vision
Disclaimer: The above information is for general understanding
of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before
taking the aforesaid medicine.