February 8, 2026 | 12

Sildenafil

Disclaimer: This self‑check questionnaire is for educational purposes only. It does not diagnose any condition and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are unsure, symptoms are concerning, or you have an emergency, contact a healthcare professional or emergency services.

Questionnaire

Use the checklist below to reflect on your experience with sildenafil (commonly known by brand names used for erectile dysfunction or pulmonary hypertension). Answer honestly and note any changes over time.

• Have you used sildenafil within the past 24–72 hours?
• What dose did you take, and was it prescribed to you?
• Did you notice common effects such as headache, flushing, or nasal congestion?
• Have you experienced visual changes (blue tint, blurred vision, light sensitivity)?
• Did you feel dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting after taking it?
• Have you had chest pain, shortness of breath, or an irregular heartbeat?
• Did you take sildenafil with alcohol, nitrates, or recreational substances?
• Are you taking medications that may interact (e.g., alpha‑blockers, certain antifungals, HIV medications)?
• Do you have heart disease, high/low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease?
• Have you noticed hearing changes or sudden hearing loss?
• Did an erection last longer than four hours (priapism)?
• Are side effects mild and resolving, or persistent/worsening?
• Did symptoms begin soon after dosing or later the same day?
• Have you used sildenafil more frequently than directed?
• Are you driving or performing safety‑sensitive tasks after use?

How to interpret answers

Your responses can help you decide the level of reason to seek medical guidance. This is not a diagnosis.

• Low reason to seek help: Mild, expected effects (e.g., brief headache or flushing) that resolve and no risk factors or interactions identified.
• Medium reason to seek help: Persistent or bothersome effects, possible interactions, uncertainty about dose, or underlying conditions that could increase risk.
• High reason to seek help: Chest pain, fainting, severe dizziness, sudden vision/hearing loss, erection lasting >4 hours, or use with nitrates—seek urgent care.

Next steps: what to do

1. Pause and observe: Note timing, dose, and symptoms; avoid re‑dosing until clarified.
2. Record details: Write down all medications, supplements, alcohol intake, and substances used.
3. Check interactions: Review labels and pharmacy guidance for contraindications.
4. Contact the right specialist: Primary care clinician or urologist; cardiology input if heart symptoms exist.
5. Prepare questions: Ask about safe dosing, interactions, alternatives, and when to avoid use.
6. Safety planning: Avoid driving or risky activities if dizzy or visually affected.
7. Know emergency signs: Seek immediate help for severe symptoms listed above.

FAQ

• What is sildenafil used for? It is prescribed for erectile dysfunction and certain cases of pulmonary hypertension, under medical supervision.
• How long does it last? Effects may begin within 30–60 minutes and last several hours; this varies by person.
• Can I drink alcohol? Alcohol may increase dizziness and blood‑pressure effects; moderation and caution are advised.
• Is it safe to drive? If you feel dizzy or have visual changes, avoid driving or operating machinery.
• Can I take it with other meds? Some combinations are unsafe; always review your full medication list with a clinician.
• What if it doesn’t work? Do not increase the dose without medical advice; discuss alternatives with a professional.
• Is online purchasing safe? Counterfeit risks exist; use licensed pharmacies only.

For broader context and responsible use discussions, see our health & safety Blog. If questions arise about prescriptions, consent, or disclosures, our Legal Advice resources may help. For guidance on medications and driving safety considerations, review our DUI Defense information hub.

Sources

• U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA): Sildenafil Medication Guide
• Mayo Clinic: Sildenafil (Oral Route)
• NHS (UK): Sildenafil — Uses, Side Effects, and Safety
• European Medicines Agency (EMA): Product Information