Sildenafil
- Clinically proven treatment for erectile dysfunction
- Contains the same active ingredient as Viagra
- Usually starts working within 30–60 minutes
- Can remain effective for up to 4 hours
From £5.89
Sildenafil is a prescription medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), helping men achieve and maintain an erection. It contains the same active ingredient as Viagra and is available as a generic alternative.
Sildenafil belongs to a group of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis when sexually stimulated, helping improve erectile function. It does not work without sexual arousal.
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This page is written for general information. It does not replace advice from your own prescriber or GP, and it is not a recommendation that this medicine is right for you.
How do I take sildenafil?
Sildenafil is usually taken approximately one hour before sexual activity. Swallow the tablet whole with water. It can be taken with or without food, although a heavy or high-fat meal may delay how quickly it works.
The usual starting dose is 50 mg, which may be adjusted to 25 mg or 100 mg depending on your response and clinical suitability. Do not take Sildenafil more than once in 24 hours, and always follow your prescriber's instructions.
Sildenafil only works when you are sexually stimulated and must not be taken alongside nitrate medicines or recreational nitrites (poppers).
What side effects should I know about?
Like all medicines, Sildenafil can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Facial flushing
- Indigestion or nausea
- A blocked or stuffy nose
- Dizziness
- Temporary changes to vision
Most side effects are mild and short-lived. However, seek urgent medical attention if you experience chest pain, sudden loss of vision or hearing, or a prolonged or painful erection lasting more than four hours.
For a full list of possible side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet supplied with your medication.
Is Sildenafil safe for me?
Sildenafil is generally well tolerated when prescribed appropriately, but it is not suitable for everyone.
You must not take Sildenafil if you use nitrate medicines for chest pain, recreational nitrites (poppers), or riociguat. Certain heart conditions, low blood pressure and other medical conditions may also make Sildenafil unsuitable.
Before treatment, a qualified UK prescriber will review your confidential online assessment, including your medical history and current medications, to determine whether Sildenafil is appropriate for you.
Always follow your prescriber's advice and read the Patient Information Leaflet before taking Sildenafil.
Sildenafil questions, answered
How quickly does sildenafil work?
Sildenafil usually starts working within 30–60 minutes and is typically taken around one hour before sexual activity. A heavy or high-fat meal may delay its effects, and sexual stimulation is required for it to work.
What's the difference between sildenafil and Viagra?
Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra. Generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient but is sold without the Viagra brand name. The appearance and inactive ingredients can vary between manufacturers, but both are used to treat erectile dysfunction.
What's the difference between sildenafil 25mg, 50mg and 100mg?
The strengths contain different amounts of sildenafil. The usual starting dose is 50mg, but this may be reduced to 25mg or increased to 100mg depending on how well it works, how you tolerate it and your individual medical circumstances.
Your prescriber will determine which strength is most suitable for you.
What if sildenafil doesn't work the first time?
Sildenafil may not work the first time you take it. Factors such as timing, food, sexual stimulation and anxiety can all affect how well it works.
If you've taken it as directed and are still experiencing difficulties, contact PillSuite for a review of your treatment. Do not increase your dose without advice from your prescriber.
Can I take sildenafil with other medicines?
Some medicines can interact with sildenafil. It must not be taken with nitrate medicines (such as those used for angina), recreational nitrites (poppers) or riociguat, as these combinations can cause a dangerous fall in blood pressure.
Other medicines may also affect whether sildenafil is suitable for you or require a dose adjustment. Tell us about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter treatments and supplements you take during your assessment so our prescriber can review them.
Does sildenafil affect male fertility?
There's no clear evidence that sildenafil reduces male fertility. If you have concerns about your fertility, speak to your GP.
How often can I take sildenafil?
Sildenafil should not be taken more than once in 24 hours. It is usually taken when needed, approximately one hour before sexual activity.
Always follow your prescriber's instructions and do not take an additional dose if the first tablet hasn't worked as expected.
Are there alternatives to sildenafil?
Yes. Tadalafil is another prescription treatment for erectile dysfunction available from PillSuite. It works in a similar way to sildenafil but can remain effective for up to 36 hours, offering greater flexibility around timing.
Your prescriber can assess which treatment may be most suitable for you.
How long can I take sildenafil for?
Sildenafil can be used over the long term if it remains effective and suitable for you. There is no fixed maximum duration of treatment, but your medical circumstances and response to the medicine should be reviewed regularly.
If your erectile dysfunction persists or changes, speak to your prescriber or GP to discuss possible underlying causes and whether your treatment remains appropriate.
Further information
Always read the information supplied with your medicine.
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Take the next step with a confidential online assessment. A qualified UK prescriber will review your answers to determine whether Sildenafil is suitable for you.
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