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Symptoms of overdose may include:
No overdose of Viagra has been reported. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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Why is this medication prescribed?
Viagra (sil-DEN-a-fil) belongs to a group of medicines that delay the enzymes called phosphodiesterases from working too quickly. The penis is one of the areas where these enzymes work. Viagra is used
to treat men who have erectile dysfunction (also called sexual impotence).
By controlling the enzyme phosphodiesterase, Viagra helps to maintain an erection that is produced when the penis i
s stroked. Without physical action to the penis, such as that occurring during sexual intercourse, Viagra will not work to cause an erection
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Other medical problems
If you take Viagra and develop cardiac symptoms (for example, dizziness, nausea, and chest pain) during sexual activity, do not continue. Alert your doctor to the problem as soon as possible.
If you have a bleeding disorder, a stomach ulcer, or the inherited eye condition known as retinitis pigmentosa, use this medication with caution. Its safety under these circumstances has not yet bee
n studied.
To avoid low blood pressure, do not take the 50-milligram or 100-milligram dose of Viagra within 4 hours of taking an alpha-blocking drug such as Cardura.
Remember that
Viagra offers no protection from transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
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Before Using This Medicine
The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of Viagra. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:
- Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) or
- Coronary artery disease or
- Heart attack, history of (within the last 6 months) or
- High blood pressure or
- Low blood pressure or
- Stroke, history of (within the last 6 mont
hs)¡XChance of problems occurring may be increased
- Abnormal penis, including curved penis and birth defects of the penis¡XChance of problems occurring may be increased
- Bleeding problems
- Retinitis pigmentosa¡XChance of problems occurring may be increased. It is not known if the medicine is safe for use in these patients
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What special precautions should I follow?
Viagra has not been studied with other medicines used for treatment of erectile dysfunction. Presently, using them together is not recommended .
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- Use Viagra exactly as directed by your doc
tor. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. If too much is used, the chance of side effects is increased.
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If you experience a prolonged or painful erec
tion for 4 hours or more, contact your doctor immediately. This condition may require prompt medical treatment to prevent tissue damage of the penis and possible permanent impotence.
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How should this medicine be used?
Viagra comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It should be taken as needed about 1 hour before sexual activity. However, Viagra can be taken anytime from 4 hours to 30 minutes before sexual activity. Via
gra should not be taken more than once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Viagra exact
ly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
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