Viagra (Sildenafil) role in Pulmonary hypertension

Viagra containing Sildenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor, and Scientists created it to treat high blood pressure and angina or chest pain.

But later, during clinical studies, They found it more effective in treating Sexual faults like Ed. Erectile dysfunction is an inability to get or keep an erection during sexual intimacy, also known as Impotence. 

Sildenafil cause vasodilation effects through which it widens the blood vessels of specific areas of the body. During conditions like PH, which involves high blood pressure in the vessels that bring blood to your lungs, it can help.

Pulmonary arterial is a progressive disease that may lead to the risk of heart failure. There's also no cure for this chronic condition, but the use of Sildenafil may help to manage the condition and improve the quality of life. 

To treat PH, Sildenafil is available under a brand name known as Revatio. FDA approved Revatio in 2005 to treat Pulmonary arterial hypertension(PAH). It is available as a prescription-based drug, and a doctor may prescribe it when it seems helpful in your condition.

Read on to learn how it works for PH, its side effects, and the recommended dosage. 

How does Sildenafil work to treat Pulmonary hypertension?

Sildenafil, popularly sold under Viagra, is also helpful in treating PH. It is a phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor, an enzyme produced in the lungs and other parts of the body; it breakdowns a substance called cGMP. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate is an enzyme that helps relax and widen the arteries. 

Sildenafil decreases PDE5 activity, so more cGMP is available to relax or widen arteries. When it widens arteries, it is easier for the heart to pump blood through the lungs, help reduce blood pressure, and treat PH. As a result, the heart's ability to pump blood through the lungs increases, improving a person's ability to exercise and prevent symptoms of PH. 

What is the Sildenafil dosage for pulmonary hypertension(PH)

The usual dosage of Sildenafil for treating PH is between 5 to 20 milligrams three times a day. Your doctor may suggest you take each dose 4 to 6 hours apart. The ideal dose for an individual depends on the severity of their medical condition and PH. Therefore, the dosage regimen may vary from person to person. You might need more frequent doses if you suffer from severe PH. Take the dosage as prescribed by your doctor, and do not disturb the dosage amount without consulting them. 

Sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension side effects

While taking Sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension, some people may face common side effects. The chances of getting across these side effects are rare, but if this happens, inform your doctor. With little care and prevention, you can manage these side effects. Sildenafil may have unwanted effects cause-

• Nausea or Upset stomach
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Flushing
• Nose bleed
• Nasal congestion
• Shortness of breath

Some less common side effects that Sildenafil may cause are-

• Diarrhea
• Muscle pain
• Fever
• Low blood pressure
• Fluid retention
• Body pain

The below given side effects are rare but also puts a serious impact on your health. Immediately visit a doctor if you face them after taking Sildenafil-

• Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Prolonged erection lasting longer than 4 hours(Priapism)
• Sudden loss of hearing

Precautions Before taking Sildenafil for Pulmonary hypertension(PH)

Before you take, Sildenafil, speak with a doctor or healthcare professional if you also have any other health problems. They might have you change or stop taking certain drugs under them as they may interact with Sildenafil. 

Also, they may have you take certain precautions if you're at risk of certain side effects of Sildenafil-

It's suggested to avoid taking Sildenafil if you have-

• The problem of low or high blood pressure
• Taking medications that lower blood pressure, such as nitrates
• Recently had a heart attack or stroke.
• Suffering from nerve function problem
• A serious heart or liver condition
• Using erectile dysfunction medications
• Taking antiretroviral agents for AIDS or HIV
• Have an allergy to Sildenafil or Viagra

It's unclear whether you should take Sildenafil during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Generally, you must discuss with a doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding a baby if you are going to take any drug. 

Takeaway

Sildenafil is a prescription-based drug used to treat Pulmonary hypertension(PH). It helps by widening the blood vessels in your lungs, lowering their blood pressure. Sildenafil works to lower the blood pressure in these blood vessels to reduce complications and risks to the heart.

You must avoid taking Sildenafil if you suffer from low blood pressure. Caution is generally needed if you have conditions associated with the heart. Liver or nervous system. Likewise, you should also avoid using Sildenafil with other drugs that lower blood pressure. 

While using Sildenafil, some people may rarely face common side effects of this medicine. They can experience upset stomach, skin flushing, shortness of breath and headache. Please follow a doctor's instructions for the dose strength and frequency to avoid serious side effects. 

Some FaQs

Can you take Viagra for pulmonary hypertension?

Sildenafil, commonly known as Viagra, a popular Ed drug, can also treat pulmonary hypertension(PH) symptoms. It works by expanding the diameter of the blood vessels to allow blood to flow more easily to the lungs. If a doctor finds Sildenafil is a helpful and safe treatment for a person with PH, they may prescribe an appropriate dosage. 

Does Viagra(Sildenafil) increase oxygen in the blood?

Viagra containing Sildenafil can help improve heart function and oxygen levels in the blood. In clinical studies, it also enhanced performance levels in some consumers. Its use should only do under the supervision of a healthcare professional. 

Is it safe to take Viagra daily?

The short answer is yes, but only when your doctor prescribes it for regular dosing. You can take Viagra or its generic form, Sildenafil, daily in the prescribed dosage. The Dosage region depends on the condition which is being treated and how severe it is. So please take it only after consulting a doctor and follow the advised dosage and frequency.