Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, can cause side effects. Common ones include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and visual disturbances like blurred vision or sensitivity to light. Less common, but still possible, are stomach upset, dizziness, and muscle aches. Rarely, more serious side effects occur, such as prolonged erection (priapism) requiring immediate medical attention.
Before taking sildenafil, discuss your medical history with your doctor. This is especially crucial if you have heart problems, high or low blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, a history of stroke or heart attack, or eye problems.
Sildenafil interacts with certain medications. This interaction can be dangerous, so inform your doctor about all medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Significant interactions can happen with nitrates (used to treat angina), alpha-blockers (for high blood pressure), and some antifungals.
| Nitrates | Dangerous drop in blood pressure; avoid combination. |
| Alpha-blockers | Increased risk of low blood pressure; your doctor may adjust dosages. |
| Certain Antifungals | May increase sildenafil levels, leading to heightened side effects. |
| Ritonavir (HIV medication) | May increase sildenafil blood levels. |
Grapefruit juice can also affect how your body processes sildenafil; limit or avoid its consumption while taking the medication. If you experience any unusual or concerning side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
