Sildenafil: The "Gold Standard" in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra) is the world's first oral medication approved for the effective treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). It belongs to the class of PDE5 (phosphodiesterase type 5) inhibitors and remains the "gold standard" against which all other potency drugs are compared. Its appearance in the late 1990s revolutionized the treatment of ED.
What is Sildenafil and its purpose?
Sildenafil (in citrate form) is a vascular drug intended for men who cannot achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It is also used (in different dosages) to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
1. Common Generic Brands
Besides the original Viagra, Sildenafil is the basis for a huge number of generics, such as:
-
Kamagra
-
Fildena
-
Suhagra
-
Malegra
-
Viprogra
-
Cenforce
-
Delgra
-
And many others.
2. Important Distinction: Sildenafil is not an "Aphrodisiac"
As a medical consultant, I must emphasize: Sildenafil is not an aphrodisiac and does not increase libido (sexual desire). It does not cause an erection mechanically or forcibly. The drug works only in the presence of natural sexual stimulation.
Detailed Mechanism of Action of Sildenafil
The mechanism of action of Sildenafil is purely physiological and targets the blood flow in the penis.
-
Trigger (Stimulation): It all begins with sexual arousal. The brain sends signals that cause the release of nitric oxide (NO) in the corpus cavernosum of the penis.
-
Erectile Cycle: Nitric oxide (NO) activates an enzyme that produces cyclic GMP (cGMP). cGMP is the key substance that causes the smooth muscles of the blood vessels to relax.
-
Result (Engorgement): As the muscles relax, the arteries in the penis widen, leading to a powerful inflow of blood. Simultaneously, the veins that drain blood are compressed. This "traps" the blood in the cavernous bodies, causing a firm erection.
-
PDE5 Blockade: Normally, the PDE5 enzyme quickly breaks down cGMP, and the erection subsides. Sildenafilblocks this enzyme. This allows cGMP to accumulate and last longer, ensuring a stable and prolonged erection sufficient for sex.
Instructions for Use and Dosage
Choosing the right dose is key to efficacy and safety.
1. Standard Dosages (Tablets)
-
Sildenafil 25 mg: (e.g., Suhagra 25). The minimum dose. Ideal for starting therapy, for elderly patients (over 65), or for those with mild comorbidities.
-
Sildenafil 50 mg: (e.g., Suhagra 50). The "gold standard" and recommended starting dose for most men. Provides an optimal balance of efficacy and risk of side effects.
-
Sildenafil 100 mg: (e.g., Viagra 100, Kamagra 100, Fildena 100). The maximum standard daily dose. Prescribed if 50 mg was not effective enough.
-
High Doses (120 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg): (Cobra-120, Cenforce 150/200). Not intended for single intake! These are economical packs designed exclusively for splitting into 2-4 standard doses.
2. Innovative Release Forms
For faster action and convenience, special forms were created:
-
Oral Jelly: (Kamagra Oral Jelly, Vega Extra Cobra Oral Jelly). Start working faster (15-25 minutes) due to absorption in the oral cavity.
-
Chewable/Sublingual (Soft/CT/PRO): (Fildena CT, Malegra PRO). Also have a fast onset (15-25 minutes) and do not require water.
3. Administration Rules
-
Time of Intake: A standard Sildenafil tablet is taken 45–60 minutes before planned sexual activity.
-
Duration of Action: The effect lasts for 4-6 hours.
-
Frequency: Strictly no more than once every 24 hours.
Influence of Food and Alcohol
-
Food: This is an important nuance of Sildenafil. Taking the tablet simultaneously with a high-fat meal (e.g., fatty meat, pizza, mayonnaise-based dishes) can significantly slow down absorption and delay the onset of action by 30-60 minutes, as well as reduce overall efficacy. For a guaranteed effect, take it on an empty stomach.
-
Alcohol: Moderate doses of alcohol are usually permissible. However, excessive alcohol consumption is a depressant and reduces erectile function on its own. Furthermore, alcohol combined with Sildenafil can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and hypotension.
Critical Contraindications
Ignoring these contraindications can be life-threatening.
-
INTERACTION WITH NITRATES: Absolutely forbidden! Taking Sildenafil with any form of organic nitrates (Nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, etc. – heart medications) or nitric oxide donors ("poppers") causes a fatal drop in blood pressure.
-
Severe Cardiovascular Diseases: Recent heart attack or stroke (within 6 months), severe heart failure, unstable angina.
-
Blood Pressure: Severe hypotension (pressure < 90/50 mmHg) or uncontrolled hypertension.
-
Severe hepatic or renal impairment.
-
History of vision loss due to Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION).
Side Effects of Sildenafil
Side effects are more common at the 100 mg dose than at 50 mg.
-
Very Common: Headache (the most common side effect).
-
Common: Facial flushing ("hot flashes"), nasal congestion, dyspepsia (indigestion), dizziness.
-
Specific (Uncommon): Visual disturbances. Sildenafil can slightly affect the PDE6 enzyme in the retina, which sometimes causes a temporary disturbance in color perception ("blue haze") or increased sensitivity to light.
Conclusion: Sildenafil vs. Other Drugs
-
Sildenafil (Viagra): Your choice if you need a powerful, but short and predictable effect (4-6 hours). The most studied drug.
-
Tadalafil (Cialis): Your choice if you need spontaneity and duration (up to 36 hours). Not affected by food.
-
Vardenafil (Levitra): Your choice if you have diabetes or if Sildenafil causes you visual side effects.
Free delivery from UAH 1000
Across Ukraine
















