Name Trade Name Generic Name
Cialis Tadalafil
Levitra Vardenafil
Viagra Sildenfil
Use Treat erectile dysfunction
Action Medications for erectile dysfunction relax penile smooth muscle, which allows for inflow of blood into the penis resulting in an erection
Possible Side Effects
| Common side effects:
· Headache · · Upset stomach · Visual changes, blue tint or hue
| Serious side effects:
· Angina or chest pain · Hypotension · Hypertension · Sustained erection, if erection is sustained for greater than 4 hours you should seek immediate medical care |
Guidelines for Taking This Medication
· Must be taken approximately one hour before intercourse or as directed
· No effect in the absence of sexual stimulation
· High fat meal slows absorption
· Contraindicated with nitrate medications, do not use erectile dysfunction medications is you are using any form of Nitrates. Discuss with your physician or nurse if you have questions.
· Caution with certain alpha blocker agents, i.e., Doxazosin, Terazosin, used to treat hypertension and/or enlarged prostate
· Caution in patients with coronary artery disease, hypotension and uncontrolled hypertension
· Always consult your doctor before using any of these medications for erectile dysfunction
· If erection is sustained for more than 4 hours, you should seek immediate medical care