Common uses

This medicine is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor used to treat sexual function problems such as impotence or erectile dysfunction. In combination with sexual stimulation, this medicine works by helping the blood flow into the penis to achieve and maintain an erection. This medicine is not intended for use in women or children. This medicine will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases including HIV infection. Use "safe sex" practices such as latex condoms.

Before using

Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Do not take this medicine if you are also taking or using any form of nitroglycerin, other nitrates such as isosorbide, nitroprusside or any "nitric oxide donor" medicine, or recreational drugs called "poppers" containing amyl or butyl nitrate because very serious interactions may occur.

Do not tale this medicine if you are taking certain alpha-blocker medicines such as alfuzosin, doxazosin, prazosin, or terazosin.

Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking any other medicine for erectile dysfunction; certain antifungal medicines such as itraconazole or ketoconazole; macrolide antibiotics such as clarithromycin or erythromycin; medicine for high blood pressure; or HIV protease inhibitors such as ritonavir or indinavir.

Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including penis problems; history of painful or prolonged erection; any heart problems; kidney problems; stomach ulcers; bleeding problems; blood cell problems such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or myeloma; eye diseases, especially retina diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa; uncontrolled high blood pressure; or allergies.

Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have a history of angina or chest pain, heart attack, stroke, low blood pressure, severe liver problems, or if you have been told by your healthcare provider to not have sexual activity because of certain health problems.

Directions

The dose is usually taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity.

Do not take tis medicine more often than once daily. If you are taking certain other medicines you may only be able to take this medicine one time every two or three days. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Store this medicine at room temperature 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted.

Cautions

Do not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. This medicine may rarely cause dizziness or vision changes. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anythind else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks. To minimize dizziness or lightheadness, sit up or stand slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. Alcohol may increase your risk for side effects, including headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness. Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol when using this medicine.

Do not exceed the recommended doze without checking with your doctor. Your dose is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and the other medicines you are taking.

Sexual activity may put extra strain on your heart, especially if you have heart problems. If you have heart problems and experience any symptoms while having sex, stop having sex and tell your doctor immediately. These symptoms include severe dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or nausea.

Caution is advised when using this medicine in the eldery because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine. This medicine should not be used in women or children.

Possible side effects

Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include headache, flushing, stomach upset or nausea, heartburn, stuffy or runny nose, back pain, muscle pain, or vision changes such as trouble telling the difference between blue and green or seeing a blue tinge to objects. If these continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor.

In the unlikely event that you have a painful or prolonged erection (lasting more than 4 hours), stop using this medicine and seek immediate medical attention or permanent problems may occur.

An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, unusual swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include back pain, muscle pain, and abnormal vision.

Additional information

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. Do nit share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed, since they may have a problem that is not effectively treated with this medicine, or they may have a condition that is complicated by this medicine.

Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.