If you’ve ever heard the name Viagra, you’ve actually heard about sildenafil. It’s a pill that helps many men get and keep an erection when they need it. Besides erectile dysfunction (ED), doctors also use it for a lung condition called pulmonary arterial hypertension. The drug is cheap enough to be widely available, but you still need to know how to take it right.
Sildenafil belongs to a class called PDE5 inhibitors. It relaxes blood vessels in the penis so more blood can flow in during sexual arousal. Most men start with 50 mg about an hour before intimacy, but many doctors suggest beginning at 25 mg to see how you react. If that works well, you can increase to 100 mg, but never exceed one dose per day. For pulmonary hypertension the dose is different – usually 20 mg three times a day – and only a doctor should prescribe it.
Ordering sildenafil on the internet feels easy, but not all sites are safe. First, check if the pharmacy asks for a valid prescription; legit online pharmacies in Australia, the U.S., or Europe will always require one. Look for contact details, a physical address and a clear privacy policy. Avoid sites that promise “no prescription needed” or sell unbelievably low prices – they’re often counterfeit.
When you find a reputable pharmacy, compare prices but don’t pick the cheapest if it looks suspicious. Many trustworthy pharmacies will show batch numbers and expiry dates for each bottle. Also, read reviews from real customers; they usually point out shipping speed and product authenticity.
The most common side effects are a headache, facial flushing, or an upset stomach. These usually fade after a few hours. A small number of men feel dizziness, blurred vision, or a blue‑tinted view – if that happens, stop the pill and call your doctor. Rarely, sildenafil can cause a painful erection lasting more than four hours; this is a medical emergency called priapism.
Because sildenafil widens blood vessels, it can interact with certain heart meds like nitrates. If you’re taking any medication for chest pain, high blood pressure, or HIV, talk to your pharmacist before ordering. Alcohol in large amounts may also reduce the drug’s effectiveness and increase side effects.
Take sildenafil on an empty stomach or with a light meal – heavy fats can slow down absorption. Give yourself at least 30 minutes to feel the effect, but don’t take another dose if it doesn’t work right away; wait at least 24 hours before trying again. Store the pills in a cool, dry place and keep them out of children’s reach.
If you miss a dose (which is rare because it’s taken as needed), just skip it – don’t double up. For pulmonary hypertension patients, follow the exact schedule prescribed by your doctor; missing doses can make symptoms worse.
Any persistent pain, sudden vision loss, or an erection lasting longer than four hours needs immediate medical attention. Also, if you have heart disease, low blood pressure, or recent eye surgery, get professional advice before trying sildenafil. A quick chat with your GP can rule out hidden risks and ensure the dose is right for you.
Bottom line: sildenafil works well for many men when taken correctly and bought from a trustworthy source. Use these tips to stay safe, avoid scams, and get the best results without unnecessary side effects.