How long does Sildenafil last?

What is Sildenafil?

Sildenafil is a medication mainly intended for the treatment of erectile dysfunction but can also be occasionally prescribed for pulmonary hypertension, which is high blood pressure in the vessels that supply the lungs.

To most people this medication is known by the name of one of it's brands, Viagra but other brands include Aronix, Liberize, Eropid and Nipatra.

How Long Does it Take to Work and How Long Does it Last?

This medication can be consumed as a standard tablet, chewable tablet or liquid. Although it typically takes 30-60 minutes to start working you can take the dosage earlier earlier depending on the brand you chose. The average Sildenafil product typically lasts for 3-4 hours before starting to wear off, where as Tadalafil (Cialis) claims to last 36 hours.

This sounds like a very long time but both treatments only cause an erection if the individual is sexually aroused.

Which Strength Should I Take?

The standard dose of Sildenafil is 50mg but the medication can also come in a range of strengths from 25mg and 100mg. In most cases it is recommended to take the standard dose no more than once a day and then increase or decrease the strength depending on the effects experienced on the standard dosage. However, you should always consult a medical professional as this medicine can cause serious side effects.

What Are The Side Effects of Sildenafil?

Side effects when taking Sildenafil for erectile disfunction are uncommon as the medication is not typically taken for long periods of time. However, these side effects include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Indigestion
  • Stuffed nose
  • Feeling dizzy

If you experience the following very rare side effects please call 999 or go to A&E if:

  • You get any chest pain
  • you have a prolonged or sometimes painful erection, especially if it lasts for more than 2 hours

[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1874251

[2] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/sildenafil-viagra/side-effects-of-sildenafil/

[3] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/sildenafil-viagra/how-and-when-to-take-sildenafil/