Sildenafil: What It Does and How to Use It Safely

About half of men with diabetes report some erectile problems. Sildenafil is one of the most common treatments—and it works well for many. This page explains what sildenafil does, how to take it, common side effects, important drug interactions, and practical tips for people with diabetes.

How sildenafil works and who should consider it

Sildenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor. In simple terms, it relaxes blood vessels in the penis so more blood can flow during sexual arousal. That helps produce and maintain an erection. Doctors prescribe it for erectile dysfunction (ED) and sometimes for other conditions like pulmonary hypertension under different dosing.

Men with diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease often get ED because of blood vessel or nerve damage. Sildenafil can help, but results vary. If ED started suddenly or after injury, see your doctor before using sildenafil.

Dosage, timing, and practical tips

Typical doses are 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg. Most start at 50 mg about one hour before sex. If it works too strongly or causes side effects, doctors lower the dose. If it’s not effective, a doctor may increase it. Don’t take more than one dose in 24 hours.

Sildenafil works faster on an empty stomach—heavy meals, especially fatty ones, can delay its effect. Alcohol and recreational drugs reduce effectiveness and raise risks like low blood pressure. If you’re over 65, have liver or kidney problems, your doctor may suggest a lower dose.

Common side effects include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, upset stomach, and visual changes like a blue tint. These usually pass in a few hours. Stop the drug and get urgent help if you experience sudden vision or hearing loss, chest pain, or an erection lasting more than four hours (priapism).

Never mix sildenafil with nitrates (nitroglycerin, isosorbide) used for chest pain—this combo can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure. Be cautious with alpha-blockers for prostate issues and some blood pressure meds; your doctor will adjust doses or timing. Also tell your provider about HIV meds, antifungals, and certain antibiotics—those can raise sildenafil levels.

Want to buy sildenafil online? Use a licensed pharmacy that requires a prescription. Look for clear contact info, pharmacist access, and verified reviews. Avoid sites that sell it without a prescription or at extremely low prices—those products can be counterfeit or unsafe.

If you have diabetes, treating blood sugar, quitting smoking, and improving fitness often help ED alongside medication. Talk with your doctor about heart health before starting sildenafil—sexual activity has physical demands, and your provider can confirm it’s safe for you.

Questions about side effects, dosing, or safe online purchases? Reach out to your healthcare provider or a pharmacist. Small checks now keep treatment effective and safe.