Sildenafil citrate

Brand names: Revatio

Why is Sildenafil citrate prescribed?

Revatio is used to treat high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension), with the goal of improving exercise ability. The drug works by helping the blood vessels of the lungs relax so that blood and oxygen can flow more freely. Revatio contains the same generic ingredient as Viagra.

Most important fact about Sildenafil citrate

Revatio should never be combined with certain products (see "Possible food and drug interactions when taking Sildenafil citrate"). Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

How should you take Sildenafil citrate?

Take one Revatio tablet three times a day. Take each tablet about 4 to 6 hours apart, at about the same time each day. Revatio can be taken with or without food.

• If you miss a dose...Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

• Storage instructions...Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Sildenafil citrate.

• Side effects may include:Fever, flushing, headache, muscle aches, nasal infection, nosebleeds, shortness of breath, sleeplessness, sinus infection, upset stomach

Why should Sildenafil citrate not be prescribed?

Do not take Revatio if you already take medications containing nitrates. This includes nitroglycerin for chest pain. You should also avoid Sildenafil citrate if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

Special warnings about Sildenafil citrate

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Revatio. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have ever had the following:

• Heart problems such as heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain (angina)
• Problems with high or low blood pressure
• Blood vessel disorders, including problems with blood circulation
• An eye problem called retinitis pigmentosa
• Severe liver or kidney disease
• Any disease or problem with the shape of the penis
• Any blood problems such as sickle cell anemia or cancer of the blood cells or bone marrow
• A stomach bleeding problem or ulcer

In rare cases, men taking drugs such as sildenafil for erectile dysfunction had a sudden decrease or loss of sight in one or both eyes. It is not possible to know if these cases are directly caused by these drugs or other factors. If you experience a sudden decrease or loss of sight while taking Revatio, call your doctor immediately.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Sildenafil citrate

Never combine Revatio with the following:

Drugs containing nitrates, including nitroglycerinAntifungal drugs such as ketoconazole and itraconazoleRitonavir (an anti-HIV drug)Viagra, which contains sildenafil, the same ingredient that's in Revatio

If Revatio is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Revatio with the following:

Alpha-blockers such as doxazosinAnti-HIV drugsBarbituratesBosentanCarbamazepineRifabutinRifampinPhenytoinVitamin K antagonists

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Revatio during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking Sildenafil citrate if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage for Sildenafil citrate

ADULTS

The recommended dose is 20 milligrams three times a day.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.