Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg)
Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg) is a prescription medication specifically designed to address erectile dysfunction in men. It belongs to a category of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by increasing blood flow to the penis to help achieve and maintain an erection. Suitable for consumption with or without food, it is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and timing to achieve the best results.
Uses Of Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg)
- Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction
- Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
- Improvement in Exercise Capacity
- Management of Raynaud’s Phenomenon
- Off-label use for Rehabilitation after Spinal Cord Injuries
Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg) assists men with erectile dysfunction by enhancing blood flow to the penis, aiding in the achievement and maintenance of erections during sexual stimulation.
Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: It also helps manage pulmonary arterial hypertension by relaxing blood vessels in the lungs, which lowers blood pressure and improves oxygenation.
Improvement in Exercise Capacity: For those with pulmonary arterial hypertension, Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg) can enhance exercise capacity by making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Management of Raynaud’s Phenomenon: This medication may reduce the severity of symptoms in patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.
Off-label use for Rehabilitation after Spinal Cord Injuries: Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg) has been utilized to aid in sexual rehabilitation for men recovering from spinal cord injuries by helping them achieve satisfactory erections.
Safety & Precautions
- Avoid using if allergic to sildenafil or any other ingredients in Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg).
- Do not consume with nitrates prescribed for chest pain or angina.
- Avoid if you have severe heart or liver problems.
- Consult your doctor if you have recently experienced a stroke or heart attack.
- Inform your doctor if you have low blood pressure.
- Avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects.
- Ensure no other medications for erectile dysfunction are in use.
- Not intended for women or children.
- Do not drive if experiencing dizziness or drop in alertness.
- Consult your doctor about any underlying kidney or liver disease before use.
Side Effects
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them.
- Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck, and trunk)
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Indigestion
- Muscle pain
- Upset stomach
- Rash
- Nasal congestion (stuffy nose)
- Dizziness
- Nausea
FAQ
How should I take Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg)?
Take Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg) as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow it whole with water, around one hour before planned sexual activity. It can be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time. Ensure not to exceed one dose per day for safe usage.
Can I consume alcohol while taking Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg)?
Consuming alcohol while taking Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg) is not recommended. Alcohol can heighten the chances of experiencing side effects such as dizziness, headache, and low blood pressure, which could hinder the effectiveness of the medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg), take it as soon as you remember if you plan on sexual activity. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Avoid doubling up to make up for a missed dose.
Are there any medications I must avoid while taking Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg)?
Yes, avoid taking Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg) if you are on medications containing nitrates, often prescribed for chest pain or angina. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking to prevent any adverse interactions.
Can women use Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg)?
No, Suhagra 50 Tablet (Sildenafil 50mg) is not intended for use by women. It is specifically formulated to treat erectile dysfunction in men. Women should consult their healthcare provider for appropriate treatments suited to their conditions.
What should I do in case of an overdose?
In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, or prolonged erection. It is crucial to stick to the prescribed dosage to avoid any potential health risks associated with an overdose.
Additional Information
Dosages of Sildenafil
Sildenafil is available in multiple forms and strengths, catering to various medical conditions. Below are the commonly prescribed dosages:
Dosage Forms and Strengths
| Brand | Form | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Revatio | Tablet | 20 mg |
| Viagra | Tablet | 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg |
| Revatio | Injectable Solution | 10 mg/12.5mL |
| Revatio | Oral Suspension | 10 mg/12.5mL (when reconstituted) |
Dosage Considerations for Erectile Dysfunction
- 50 mg orally 1 hour before sexual activity
- Can be increased to 100 mg or reduced to 25 mg, depending on effectiveness and tolerance
- Maximum dosage: 100 mg/day
Dosage for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
- Oral: 5 mg or 20 mg 3 times daily, administered 4-6 hours apart
- Intravenous (IV): 2.5-mg or 10-mg bolus 3 times daily if patient is temporarily unable to take orally
- Recommended oral/IV dose not to be exceeded
- Note: Adding Revatio to bosentan does not have any beneficial effect on exercise capacity
Special Considerations for Dosing
| Condition | Dosage Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment | Initial dose of 25 mg |
| Geriatric (Erectile Dysfunction) | 25 mg orally initially 1 hour before sexual activity |
| Geriatric (Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension) | Oral: 5 mg or 20 mg 3 times daily, administered 4-6 hours apart |
| Intravenous (IV): 2.5-mg or 10-mg bolus 3 times daily if patient is temporarily unable to take orally | |
| Children (1-17 years) for PAH | Not to be prescribed due to higher risk of death with high doses and ineffectiveness of low doses |
Drug Interactions with Sildenafil
Sildenafil can interact with a variety of other medications. Knowing these interactions is crucial for safety.
Severe Interactions
- Atazanavir
- Cobicistat
- Elvitegravir/Cobicistat/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir DF
- Isosorbide Dinitrate
- Isosorbide Mononitrate
- Nelfinavir
- Nitroglycerin (all forms)
- Ombitasvir/Paritaprevir/Ritonavir
- Riociguat
Moderate Interactions
- Carvedilol
- Epoprostenol
- Fluvoxamine
- Labetalol
- Macitentan
- Sapropterin
It’s essential to keep an updated list of all medications and share this with your healthcare provider to prevent interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of any medication.
Administration Guidelines and Considerations for Sildenafil
When administering Sildenafil, following strict guidelines ensures effectiveness and reduces risk.
Administration
- Sildenafil should be taken with water and can be ingested with or without food.
- Avoid high-fat meals as they can delay the drug’s effectiveness.
- For erectile dysfunction, take Sildenafil approximately 1 hour before sexual activity.
- For pulmonary arterial hypertension, adhere strictly to dosage intervals, typically three times daily.
Storage
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not store in a bathroom or refrigerator.
Missed Dose
- If on a scheduled dose for pulmonary arterial hypertension, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
- If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
Overdose
- In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
- Contact a Poison Control Center for further guidance.
- Symptoms of overdose may include: severe dizziness, fainting, or prolonged erection.
Sildenafil in Special Populations
Usage and dosage of Sildenafil may vary among different populations such as geriatrics, pediatrics, and those with existing health conditions.
Geriatric Considerations
Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Sildenafil:
- Initiate treatment at a lower dose.
- Monitor for increased plasma concentrations.
- Exercise caution due to greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, and cardiac function along with comorbid conditions and concomitant pharmacotherapy.
Hepatic and Renal Impairment
- Use an initial dose of 25 mg, especially for severe impairments.
- Monitor patient closely due to reduced clearance of the drug.
Pediatric Use
- Not prescribed for children aged 1-17 years for PAH due to increased mortality risks with higher doses and ineffectiveness at lower doses.
Clinical Studies and Effectiveness
Erectile Dysfunction
Several studies have tested the efficiency of Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction:
- Randomized clinical trials have shown significant improvement in the ability to achieve and maintain an erection compared to placebo.
- 60-70% of men reported improvements in erectile function.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Studies have shown divergent results depending on the underlying conditions:
| Condition | Observation |
|---|---|
| Idiopathic PAH | Positive improvement in exercise capacity |
| PAH secondary to connective tissue disorders | Varying results; epistaxis more common in patients |
| PAH secondary to sickle-cell disease | Increased vaso-occlusive crises; effectiveness not established |
Cardiovascular Risks
Although Sildenafil has beneficial effects, it can pose risks to those with preexisting cardiovascular conditions. Clinical evaluations have emphasized the need for caution:
- Patients with a “crowded” optic disc may have an increased risk of NAION.
- Recommendations against ED treatment for men where sexual activity is medically inadvisable.
- Potential cardiac risk with sexual activity.
Patient Education and Counseling
Patient counseling is essential for safe and effective use of Sildenafil.
Key Counseling Points
- Advise patient to report any sudden vision or hearing loss immediately.
- Discuss the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages and not combining with other PDE-5 inhibitors or nitrates.
- Encourage open communication about all medications currently taken to avoid interactions.
Conclusion
Understanding the detailed guidelines, risks, and benefits of Sildenafil empowers patients and healthcare providers to achieve the best possible therapeutic outcomes. By adhering to recommended dosages and being aware of potential interactions and contraindications, patients can use Sildenafil safely and effectively.
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and for any concerns regarding Sildenafil.
