Always inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies, before starting generic sildenafil. Some medications can interact dangerously with sildenafil.
Specifically, be cautious with:
- Nitrates: Combining sildenafil and nitrates (used to treat chest pain) can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure, potentially leading to fainting or a heart attack. This combination is strictly contraindicated. Alpha-blockers: These medications, often used to treat high blood pressure or enlarged prostate, can also lower blood pressure, and combining them with sildenafil may increase this effect. CYP3A4 inhibitors: Certain medications, like ketoconazole and ritonavir (antifungals and HIV medications respectively), inhibit the enzyme that breaks down sildenafil. This can lead to increased sildenafil levels in the blood, potentially causing side effects. CYP3A4 inducers: Conversely, some medications like rifampin (an antibiotic) can speed up sildenafil breakdown, reducing its effectiveness.
Other medications that may interact include:
Blood thinners Some antidepressants Certain antihypertensives
Your doctor can assess your individual risk and adjust dosages or recommend alternative treatments if needed. Never self-adjust your medication dosages. If you experience any unusual side effects while taking generic sildenafil, contact your doctor immediately.
