Clinical Assessment for Sildenafil Treatment
Primary Eligibility Requirements
Sildenafil citrate is primarily prescribed for adult men aged 18 and over who experience erectile dysfunction. The medication works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal, but it requires a thorough clinical assessment to ensure safe use. Our UK-licensed prescribers evaluate each patient's cardiovascular health, current medications, and medical history before approving treatment.
Cardiovascular Health Considerations
Your heart health plays a crucial role in determining sildenafil suitability. The medication can affect blood pressure, so patients with severe heart disease, recent heart attacks, or strokes within the past six months may not be suitable candidates. Similarly, those with very low blood pressure (hypotension) require careful evaluation. Men who can engage in moderate physical activity equivalent to climbing two flights of stairs are generally considered suitable for ED treatment.
Medication Compatibility Assessment
Certain medications create dangerous interactions with sildenafil citrate. Patients taking nitrate medications such as GTN spray or isosorbide tablets cannot safely use sildenafil due to the risk of severe blood pressure drops. Those prescribed riociguat for pulmonary hypertension are also excluded. Alpha-blockers, some antifungal medications, and certain HIV treatments may require dose adjustments or alternative treatments.
Liver and Kidney Function
Patients with severe liver impairment may not be suitable candidates for sildenafil, as the medication is metabolised through the liver. Those with kidney problems might require adjusted dosing. Our prescribers consider these factors when determining the appropriate starting dose, which is typically 50mg but can be adjusted to 25mg or 100mg based on individual response and tolerability.
Age and Lifestyle Factors
Whilst there's no upper age limit for sildenafil use, older patients often require more careful assessment due to increased likelihood of cardiovascular conditions and medication interactions. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and underlying health conditions like diabetes are evaluated as part of the comprehensive assessment process.
Generic vs Branded Options
Ideal candidates can choose between generic sildenafil and branded Viagra at EverydayMeds. Both contain the same active ingredient (sildenafil citrate) and work identically, but generic sildenafil offers significant cost savings whilst maintaining the same effectiveness and safety profile. This makes treatment more accessible for long-term use.
Treatment Expectations and Outcomes
Suitable candidates typically experience improved erectile function within 30-60 minutes of taking sildenafil, with effects lasting 4-6 hours. Success rates are generally higher in men whose ED has clear physical causes rather than purely psychological factors. However, the medication can be effective for mixed causes of erectile dysfunction when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
