Sildenafil (Sildenafil) has been widely used in the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) since its introduction to the medical market in 1998.This drug plays a role in improving the quality of sexual life for many men by promoting blood flow to the penis and supporting erections. Sildenafil is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and improves blood flow between the heart and lungs. This article details sildenafil’s mechanism of action, duration of effect, dosage, and side effects.
1. Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- Action Sequence.
- Sildenafil promotes erections by dilating blood vessels in the penis and increasing blood flow during sexual stimulation. Specifically, by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, it prevents the breakdown of a substance called cyclic GMP (cGMP). cGMP increases, which causes the smooth muscles of the blood vessels to relax and increases blood flow to the penis, enabling an erection.
- Onset of effect: (1)
- The effects of sildenafil appear approximately 30 minutes to one hour after taking the drug.It supports natural erections, as erections occur only when sexually stimulated.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- The duration of effect is approximately 4-6 hours. During this time, sexual stimulation is likely to promote erection.
2. Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
- Action Sequence.
- Sildenafil is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by dilating blood vessels in the pulmonary arteries and improving blood flow. This facilitates the pumping of blood from the heart to the lungs and improves exercise capacity.
- Effects
- For patients with PAH, sildenafil can improve dyspnea, exercise tolerance, and quality of life.
3. How to take it
- Erectile dysfunction (ED):
- It is usually taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. Because of its sensitivity to dietary influences, its effects may be delayed, especially if taken with a meal high in fat. Common doses are 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg, with the physician prescribing the appropriate dose based on the patient’s response.
- Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH):
- Usually taken three times a day, it is important to follow your doctor’s guidance as dosages may vary in the treatment of PAH.
4. Individual differences in effectiveness
- The effectiveness of sildenafil may vary from person to person. It is recommended that you consult your physician to adjust the dosage or consider other treatment options, especially if you find the effect to be inadequate.
5. Side effects
- The most common side effects of sildenafil include headache, hot flashes, indigestion, nasal congestion, and visual disturbances (bluish vision).These side effects are usually mild, but if serious side effects occur, a physician should be consulted immediately.
Summary
Sildenafil is an important drug that is effective in several medical conditions, including erectile dysfunction (ED) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).Its effect is to promote erections and improve motility by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow. However, its effects vary from person to person and side effects exist, so it is important to seek medical guidance when using it. Proper use of sildenafil can help many people achieve a better quality of life.
