Sildenafil is an ED medicine that helps overcome erection difficulties and treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It boosts the flow of blood inside the penile arteries that are blocked because of the buildup of plaque in their passages. These medicines are also prescribed for managing pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Based on the general information, the effectiveness of Sildenafil medicines remains for at least 4 hours in the system. When the medicine is taken, it takes around 30 minutes to an hour to begin its action. Its effective time as well as its results will depend on several factors like age, dosage, illnesses, health conditions, etc.  

Duration of action of Sildenafil

The effects of the medicine remain active in the body for up to 4 hours or so. In the case of a low dose, the effects may last for around 2 to 3 hours. While, on average, the medicine can run actively in the bloodstream for around 4 or 5 hours.    

How does Sildenafil's action get affected?

The duration of action of Sildenafil medicines may be impacted because of drug-drug interactions and a combination of alcohol. Substances like medicines, recreational drugs, and, alcohol might affect the potency of Sildenafil when used together.

To get the most out of Sildenafil medicines, it is necessary to avoid using them in combination with some other substances. The mixing up can interrupt the medicinal action and the results will get either delayed or suppressed.

How does Sildenafil treat erectile dysfunction?

Sildenafil is composed of Sildenafil Citrate, which is a Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor component. The medicine stops some enzymatic action happening in the walls of penile arteries. It expands the constricted and narrowed arteries of the penile and enhances the blood flow through them.

The erections are triggered when there is an increase in the blood flow inside the penile arteries. The medicine dilates the passages of the arteries and allows more blood supply inside. This is how Sildenafil stops the action of PDE enzymes in the arteries.

Overaction of PDE5 enzymes contributes to plaque accumulation in the arteries. As a result, the arteries get blocked and no blood flows inside. The person develops erection difficulties. However, Sildenafil effectively boosts the blood flow inside by stimulating the release of a potent chemical called Nitric oxide (NO) into the walls of the penile arteries.

This nitric oxide causes the muscle expansion of the arteries. This leads to complete arterial relaxation. This dilates the arteries and the blood fills the two tubes of spongy tissues of the penile. The erectile tissues swell up with blood, making the erection response stronger. When blood flows inside adequately, the arteries narrow and trap the blood for sustaining erections. 

Side effects of Sildenafil medicines

Sildenafil medicines contain some active as well as inactive ingredients that might give rise to some side effects. These side effects can be of mild to moderate category. The side effects may include headaches, flushing, vomiting, sore throat, nausea, rashes, insomnia, stuffy nose or nasal congestion, blurred vision, back pain, stomachache, diarrhea, and dizziness.

These side effects remain for a short duration, and they disappear as the medicine gradually leaves the system. However, if the symptoms do not go away within a few days, one must talk to a doctor. 

Generic versions of Sildenafil

The first-ever generic version of Sildenafil medicine is Viagra. Viagra is a brand-name version of Sildenafil, which is approved by the FDA for use in treating erectile dysfunction symptoms. Besides, there are many generic versions of Sildenafil.

One unbranded version of Sildenafil is Filitra 10. The medicines deliver the same action as Viagra. They do not work in the absence of sexual arousal. They deliver their optimal action only during sexual arousal.

Ways to avoid risk while using Sildenafil

The effect of the medicine might lower your alertness and trigger dizziness and blurry vision. So, it is necessary to avoid some activities that require you to be highly attentive like machine operating, driving, etc.

Do not use these medicines if you have ongoing serious medical conditions such as heart disease, psychiatric illnesses, diabetes, asthma, and HIV. Men with a medical history or ongoing illnesses must inform their doctor before using this medicine.

A list of all medicines, including prescription, nonprescription, herbal supplements, etc. must be shown to the doctor before considering ED medicines for managing ED.

ED medications are intended for adult men (18 or above) to overcome their erection difficulties, hence their use is not recommended for women, children, and teenagers.