Sildenafil - oral [pulmonary arterial hypertension]


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Sildenafil is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the blood vessels leading to the lungs).
How do I take this medicine?
Take Sildenafil exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Sildenafil is available as a tablet or as an oral suspension.

If you are taking an oral suspension, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure out your prescribed dose.

Sildenafil must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor. Your doctor may gradually reduce the dose of Sildenafil before stopping it completely.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- problems with your eyesight such as poor blood circulation of the nerves of the eyes
- severe liver disease
- history of heart attack
- very low blood pressure (<90/50 mmHg)
as Sildenafil may not be suitable for you.

Do not take Sildenafil with medicines to treat heart disease. Please see the section “Can I take this with other medicines?” below for more information.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- heart disease
- liver disease
- kidney disease
- blood disorder
- bleeding disorder
- penis deformity or disorder
- stomach ulcer

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What side effects could I experience?
Sildenafil may cause dizziness and blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.

You may experience sensitivity to light. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.

Other side effects include any of the following: nosebleed, headache, diarrhoea, indigestion, flushing, fever and difficulty sleeping.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- sudden loss of hearing or vision
- any colour changes in your eyesight
- low blood pressure
- prolonged erection for males

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Do not take Sildenafil if you are taking any of these medicines:

- medicines for heart disease e.g. nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, amyl nitrate
- medicines to treat fungal infections e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole
- medicines for HIV infection e.g. ritonavir, saquinavir

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

- other medicines to treat pulmonary hypertension e.g. bosentan, iloprost, ambrisentan
- medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease e.g. doxazosin, amlodipine, atenolol
- antibiotics e.g. erythromycin, clarithromycin, telithromycin
- medicines to treat depression e.g. nefazodone

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Sildenafil.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Store oral suspension in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used. Throw away any unused portion 60 days after first opening.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on sildenafil - oral [pulmonary arterial hypertension] and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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