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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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