Sildenafil

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 4/20/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of sildenafil, whether for erectile dysfunction (ED) or pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of sildenafil use include:

• Headache
  
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
  
• Heartburn
  
• Dizziness
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Abnormal vision (blurred vision, changes in color vision)
  
• Nasal congestion
  
• Nosebleeds
  
• Back pain
  
• Muscle pain
  
• Nausea
  
• Upset stomach
  
  

More severe side effects of sildenafil use can include:

• Priapism (a prolonged and painful erection lasting more than four hours)
  
• Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
  
• Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears
  
• Chest pain or pressure
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Low blood pressure
  
• Irregular heartbeat
  
• Seizure
  
  

If you experience any severe side effects while using sildenafil, especially those that indicate a serious reaction, seek medical attention promptly.

Before using sildenafil, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with sildenafil.

Tell your provider if you are taking the following medications or supplements:

• Nitrate medications for chest pain (angina)
  
• Blood pressure medications
  
• HIV/AIDS medications
  
• Antifungal medications
  
• Alpha-blockers
  
• Other PDE5 inhibitors (such as tadalafil or vardenafil)
  
  

Additionally, mention any medical conditions you have, such as:

• Heart conditions or history of heart problems
  
• Stroke or low blood pressure
  
• Liver or kidney disease
  
• Bleeding disorders
  
• Eye problems or vision loss
  
• Deformed penis shape or Peyronie's disease
  
• Diabetes
  
  

You should also tell your provider if you smoke, or use illicit drugs containing nitrates.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using sildenafil with your healthcare provider.

Take sildenafil exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase or decrease the dosage without consulting them.

Do not take sildenafil with alcohol or grapefruit juice, as they may interact and increase the risk of side effects.

If you experience sudden vision or hearing changes while taking sildenafil, stop using it and seek medical attention.

In case of a sildenafil overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, or priapism (prolonged erection). If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.