What is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is a prescription ED treatment containing the active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, which helps to relax the blood vessels around your penis. Erectile dysfunction happens when blood flow is restricted into the penis. It’s understood it affects around half of all men aged between 40 and 70 to some extent. [1] So it’s more common than you might think (and if you do experience it, you’re definitely not alone). In most cases, it’s also not much to worry about, but it does make getting an erection difficult.
The culprit is tight blood vessels, which stop blood flow in your penis. An enzyme called PDE5 is what causes this. Sildenafil counters the effects of this enzyme, so blood can reach the penis. And then, hey presto – a firmer and longer-lasting erection. [3]
There are some misconceptions about Sildenafil, like it being an aphrodisiac or only for use by older men. But in reality Sildenafil doesn’t directly affect sexual desire. It works by improving blood flow, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection. Plus ED can affect men of all ages, so if you think you might have it, consult with a doctor to confirm a diagnosis before taking Sildenafil.
Because Sildenafil tablets are generic, it’s cheaper than Viagra. But it contains the same drug, so it shouldn’t be any less effective.
How does Sildenafil work?
The process of getting erect is relaxing the smooth muscles in the penis to allow more blood flow, which causes the penis to get hard. When you have erectile dysfunction, this process is flawed. Instead of smooth blood flow, the tightening of the smooth muscles makes it restricted. [2]
Sildenafil citrate, the active ingredient in Sildenafil, is a type of drug called a PDE5 inhibitor, which just means that it stops the PDE5 enzyme from tightening up blood vessels in your penis. This allows for more blood flow into your penis and makes it easier for you to get a harder, longer-lasting erection. [3]
While Sildenafil can look after your physical needs, it can’t help you with getting sexually aroused.
What Sildenafil dosage is right for me?
Sildenafil tablets come in 25mg, 50mg and 100mg doses. So exactly the same doses as Viagra.
If you’re taking it for the first time, you’ll normally start on Sildenafil 50mg. If you take this dose and it works well but you get mild side effects, our clinician will suggest lowering your dose to 25mg.
Starting on a 25mg dose may also be recommended if you have any risk factors which make you more prone to side effects (like diabetes or low blood pressure for example).
Sildenafil 100mg is only for when you’ve tried 50mg and it hasn’t been strong enough. It’s the absolute maximum dose.
But before taking any medication, consult with your clinician to find the right dosage for you.