When you hear sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor used primarily to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Also known as Viagra, it's one of the most studied and widely prescribed medications for sexual health in the world. It doesn’t cause an erection on its own—it helps your body respond to sexual stimulation by increasing blood flow to the penis. That’s it. No magic, no hype. Just science.
Sildenafil works by blocking an enzyme called PDE5, which normally breaks down a chemical that relaxes blood vessels. When that enzyme is slowed down, blood vessels in the penis stay open longer, allowing more blood in. This same mechanism helps people with pulmonary hypertension by opening up blood vessels in the lungs, reducing pressure and making it easier to breathe. It’s not a cure, but it’s a tool that works reliably for millions.
People often confuse sildenafil with other ED meds like tadalafil or vardenafil. While they all target PDE5, sildenafil kicks in faster—usually within 30 to 60 minutes—and lasts about 4 to 5 hours. It’s also the original, which means more real-world data exists on its safety and side effects. Common ones include headaches, flushing, upset stomach, and stuffy nose. Rare but serious risks include sudden vision or hearing loss, or priapism (a painful, long-lasting erection). If you’re on nitrates for heart disease, you should never take sildenafil—it can drop your blood pressure to dangerous levels.
It’s not just for men. While most people associate sildenafil with erectile dysfunction, it’s also approved for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension in both men and women. And yes, it’s available as a generic, which makes it much more affordable than the brand-name version. Many people buy it online, but not all online pharmacies are safe. Always check that the pharmacy follows local regulations and doesn’t sell unverified pills.
What you’ll find in the posts below is a collection of real, practical insights on sildenafil and related medications. You’ll see comparisons with alternatives, safety tips, cost breakdowns, and how it fits into broader treatment plans for heart and sexual health. No fluff. Just facts people actually use.
PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra and Cialis can cause life-threatening drops in blood pressure when taken with nitrates. Learn how the interaction works, why timing matters, what to do in an emergency, and safer alternatives.
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