What is Sildenafil and how does it work?

Sildenafil is used to help men who have trouble achieving or maintaining their erection. Its active ingredient sildenafil belongs to a group of medications known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5). Sildenafil helps relax the blood vessels in the penis, which, in the presence of sexual stimulation, allows blood to flow into the penis and helps with achieving or maintaining an erection.

How do I take it?

The recommended starting dose is 50mg of the treatment once a day maximum (24 hours). For the best results swallow the medication whole with water on an empty stomach one hour before sexual activity as food will slow down the absorption of Sildenafil and meaning it will take slightly longer to work. Eating an hour after taking the pill will not affect its activity.

How long does it take to work?

Sildenafil takes approximately 1 hour to work. It will not work without sexual stimulation.

How long does it last?

Sildenafil works with sexual stimulation and its effects can last about four hours. This does not mean that you will have an erection for four hours, but rather that you have the potential for an improved erection as long as the drug lasts in your body.

What is the difference between Viagra and Sildenafil?

Viagra is a brand name for sildenafil citrate, which is also sold as a generic Sildenafil at different doses. They are essentially the same treatment, with the generic medicine sold at a fraction of the cost but medically equivalent in its efficacy, quality, and strength.

Can I buy Sildenafil over the counter?

You can buy Sildenafil from some UK pharmacies after a consultation with the pharmacist. However, not all pharmacists and pharmacies offer this service.

Can I take Sildenafil with other ED medications?

You should not take Sildenafil with any other PDE5 inhibitor unless specifically instructed by your doctor. If you would like to try different ED medications, you can do as long as only 1 tablet is taken in a 24 hour period.