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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
Take this medicine by
mouth as needed before sexual activity as directed by your doctor.
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.
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