Sildenafil
Sildenafil, best known as Viagra, is one of the most widely used medicines for erectile dysfunction. A lower dose of the same ingredient is used for pulmonary arterial hypertension. This page lists 12 sildenafil products, from standard tablets to oral jelly, chewable and effervescent tablets and an oral film.
Medicines containing Sildenafil
Kamagra Oral Jelly
Erectile Dysfunction
100mg
Kamagra Oral Jelly is sildenafil 100mg as a gel taken by mouth, used for erectile dysfunction by anyone who would rather not swallow a tablet.
Kamagra Chewable
Erectile Dysfunction
100mg
Kamagra Chewable is sildenafil 100mg in a chewable tablet for erectile dysfunction, chewed rather than swallowed down with a drink.
Kamagra Effervescent
Erectile Dysfunction
100mg
Kamagra Effervescent is sildenafil 100mg in a tablet dissolved in water before drinking, used for erectile dysfunction. A PDE5 inhibitor.
Fildena Super Active
Erectile Dysfunction
100mg
Fildena Super Active is sildenafil 100mg in a soft capsule for erectile dysfunction, a rapid-absorption form of the same PDE5 inhibitor.
Cenforce Professional
Erectile Dysfunction
100mg
Cenforce Professional is sildenafil 100mg as a sublingual tablet for erectile dysfunction, dissolved under the tongue rather than swallowed whole.
Hiforce ODS
Erectile Dysfunction
50mg
Sildenafil oral film for erectile dysfunction. The film dissolves on the tongue, so it is taken without water.
Cenforce D
Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation
100/60mg
Cenforce D pairs sildenafil 100mg with dapoxetine 60mg in one tablet, for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. A PDE5 inhibitor plus an SSRI.
Key points
- Also used for pulmonary arterial hypertension, where the same blood-vessel relaxing action eases the heart’s workload by improving lung blood flow.
- It is produced in several forms, including film-coated and chewable tablets, a sublingual tablet, and a soft capsule.
- Must not be combined with nitrate medicines, since together they risk producing dangerous reactions in the body.
What is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil belongs to a class of compounds known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These are primarily used to address issues with blood flow in specific areas of the body. Because individual response and comfort vary, multiple generic versions have been developed to match the potency and efficacy of originator products found in the global market.
What Sildenafil is used for
This active ingredient is primarily used to address Erectile Dysfunction. The compound functions by supporting the physiological response required for sexual activity. In clinical settings, the same compound is also relevant for individuals requiring management for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension.
How does Sildenafil work?
Sildenafil works by relaxing the smooth muscles found in the walls of blood vessels. This relaxation allows more blood to flow to targeted areas when physical or physiological stimulation occurs. For pulmonary use, the mechanism serves a similar function to reduce the workload on the heart by easing blood flow into the lungs.
Sildenafil brands and forms
The tablets are Viagra, Kamagra and Cenforce, which comes in the widest range of strengths. For people who prefer not to swallow a tablet, there is Kamagra Oral Jelly, Kamagra Chewable, Kamagra Effervescent (dissolved in water) and the Hiforce ODS film, which dissolves on the tongue. Cenforce Professional is a sublingual tablet and Fildena Super Active a soft capsule. Cenforce D adds dapoxetine for premature ejaculation, and Tadasiva adds tadalafil. Elsewhere sildenafil is also sold as Penegra, Vizarsin and Fildena.
Safety overview for Sildenafil
What to check before using this medicine
Review your medical history, specifically any conditions related to cardiovascular health, blood pressure, or liver and kidney function. Ensure you are not using any nitrate medications, as these can cause dangerous reactions when combined with PDE5 inhibitors.
Possible reactions and tolerability
Common responses include mild dizziness, flushing, or nasal congestion. These effects are usually temporary and relate to the changes in blood flow caused by the medication. Stop use if you experience sudden vision changes or prolonged discomfort.
Interactions and health factors
Alcohol and certain dietary habits may alter how your body processes the ingredient. Product labelling and verified clinical sources remain the correct references for specific contraindications, interactions and reactions.
What the sources say
- The label advises patients to stop sildenafil and seek medical care if sudden loss of vision occurs in one or both eyes, as this could be a sign of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. It puts the annual incidence of NAION at 2.5 to 11.8 cases per 100,000 in males aged 50 and over. (DailyMed)
- Prolonged erection greater than 4 hours and priapism have been reported infrequently, and patients should seek immediate medical assistance if an erection persists longer than 4 hours. If priapism is not treated immediately, penile tissue damage and permanent loss of potency could result. (DailyMed)
- The label says not to use sildenafil in patients taking a guanylate cyclase stimulator such as riociguat. (DailyMed)
Further reading
FAQ
What is sildenafil used for?
Sildenafil is primarily used to address erectile dysfunction, and in clinical settings it is also used for pulmonary arterial hypertension. It belongs to a class of compounds known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.
How does sildenafil work?
Sildenafil works by relaxing the smooth muscles found in the walls of blood vessels, which allows more blood to flow to targeted areas when stimulation occurs. It increases blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation by preventing the breakdown of cyclic guanosine monophosphate.
How long does sildenafil take to work?
Sildenafil typically starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes, and its effect lasts 4 to 6 hours, though this varies by product and person.
What are the side effects of sildenafil?
Common side effects include headache, flushing, mild dizziness and nasal congestion, while dyspepsia and visual changes are moderate effects. Serious side effects such as priapism and cardiovascular collapse require immediate medical attention, so speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.
Who should not take sildenafil?
Sildenafil must not be combined with nitrate medicines (nitric oxide donors), since together they risk producing dangerous reactions in the body. Contraindications also include severe cardiovascular disease, and it can also interact with alpha-blockers, so a doctor or pharmacist should be consulted.
What sildenafil products are available?
Products containing sildenafil include Viagra, Kamagra and Cenforce. Compare forms, strengths and packs in the listings above.
Which brands contain sildenafil?
Besides the products listed here, sildenafil is sold under brand names such as Vizarsin and Penegra. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare.
Can I order sildenafil online in Australia?
Yes. Our pharmacy partners ship from India to Australia in discreet packaging. Standard Airmail takes up to 3 weeks; Express Tracked Courier takes up to 1 week.
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