It is eliminated predominantly by hepatic metabolism (mainly CYP3A4) and is converted to an active metabolite with properties similar to the parent, sildenafil. Both sildenafil and the metabolite have terminal half lives of about 4 hours.Mean sildenafil plasma concentrations measured after the administration of a single oral dose of 100 mg to healthy male volunteers is depicted below:Figure 5: Mean Sildenafil Plasma Concentrations in Healthy Male Volunteers.Absorption and Distribution: Sildenafil citrate is rapidly absorbed. Maximum observed plasma concentrations are reached within 30 to 120 minutes (median 60 minutes) of oral dosing in the fasted state.
- Sildenafil citrate is used to treat erectile dysfunction.
- It enhances blood flow to the penis for a stronger erection.
- Commonly available in tablet form for oral use.
When sildenafil citrate is taken with a high fat meal, the rate of absorption is reduced, with a mean delay in T max of 60 minutes and a mean reduction in C max of 29%. The mean steady state volume of distribution (Vss) for sildenafil is 105 L, indicating distribution into the tissues. Sildenafil and its major circulating N-desmethyl metabolite are both approximately 96% bound to plasma proteins.
- Sildenafil is available both by prescription and some online sources.
- Verify authenticity to avoid fake or substandard drugs.
- Consult a healthcare professional before purchasing.
Protein binding is independent of total drug concentrations.Based upon measurements of sildenafil in semen of healthy volunteers 90 minutes after dosing, less than 0.001% of the administered dose may appear in the semen of patients.Metabolism and Excretion: Sildenafil is cleared predominantly by the CYP3A4 (major route) and CYP2C9 (minor route) hepatic microsomal isoenzymes.
What is Sildenafil Citrate?
The major circulating metabolite results from N-desmethylation of sildenafil, and is itself further metabolized.
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This metabolite has a PDE selectivity profile similar to sildenafil and an in vitro potency for PDE5 approximately 50% of the parent drug.
- Sildenafil citrate was originally developed for hypertension.
- It was later approved for erectile dysfunction treatment.
- Brand names include Viagra and Revatio.
Plasma concentrations of this metabolite are approximately 40% of those seen for sildenafil, so that the metabolite accounts for about 20% of sildenafil’s pharmacologic effects.After either oral or intravenous administration, sildenafil is excreted as metabolites predominantly in the feces (approximately 80% of administered oral dose) and to a lesser extent in the urine (approximately 13% of the pfizer sildenafil 100 administered oral dose). Similar values for pharmacokinetic parameters were seen in normal volunteers and in the patient population, using a population pharmacokinetic approach.Pharmacokinetics in Special PopulationsGeriatrics: Healthy elderly volunteers (65 years or over) had a reduced clearance of sildenafil, resulting in approximately 84% and 107% higher plasma AUC values of sildenafil and its active N-desmethyl metabolite, respectively, compared to those seen in healthy younger volunteers (18 to 45 years). Due to age-differences in plasma protein binding, the corresponding increase in the AUC of free (unbound) sildenafil and its active N-desmethyl metabolite were 45% and 57%, respectively [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5), and Use in Specific Populations (8.5)]Renal Impairment: In volunteers with mild (CLcr=50 to 80 mL/min) and moderate (CLcr=30 to 49 mL/min) renal impairment, the pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of sildenafil citrate (50 mg) were not altered. In volunteers with severe (CLcr <30 mL/min) renal impairment, sildenafil clearance was reduced, resulting in approximately doubling of AUC and C max compared to age-matched volunteers with no renal impairment [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5), and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].In addition, N-desmethyl metabolite AUC and C max values significantly increased by 200% and 79%, respectively in subjects with severe renal impairment compared to subjects with normal renal function.Hepatic Impairment: In volunteers with hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A and B), sildenafil clearance was reduced, resulting in increases in AUC (85%) and C max (47%) compared to age-matched volunteers with no hepatic impairment.
7.2 Alpha-blockers
The pharmacokinetics of sildenafil in patients with severely impaired hepatic function (Child-Pugh Class C) have not been studied [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5), and Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].Therefore, age >65, hepatic impairment and severe renal impairment are associated with increased plasma levels of sildenafil.
- Sildenafil interacts with nitrates, causing dangerous blood pressure drops.
- Consult a doctor before starting if on other medications.
- Alcohol may reduce the effectiveness and increase side effects.
A starting oral dose of 25 mg should be considered in those patients [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].Drug Interaction StudiesEffects of Other Drugs on Sildenafil citrateSildenafil metabolism is principally mediated by CYP3A4 (major route) and CYP2C9 (minor route).
12.1 Mechanism of Action
Sildenafil at recommended doses has no effect in the absence of sexual stimulation. Studies in vitro have shown that sildenafil is selective for PDE5. This lower selectivity is thought to be the basis for abnormalities related to color vision [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. In addition to human corpus cavernosum smooth muscle, PDE5 is also found in other tissues including platelets, vascular and visceral smooth muscle, and skeletal muscle, brain, heart, liver, kidney, lung, pancreas, prostate, bladder, testis, and seminal vesicle.
What’s the youngest age for which Viagra is safe to use?
Therefore, inhibitors of these isoenzymes may reduce sildenafil clearance and inducers of these isoenzymes may increase sildenafil clearance. The concomitant use of erythromycin or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., saquinavir, ketoconazole, itraconazole) as well as the nonspecific CYP inhibitor, cimetidine, is associated with increased plasma levels of sildenafil [ see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].In vivo studies:Cimetidine (800 mg), a nonspecific CYP inhibitor, caused a 56% increase in plasma sildenafil concentrations when co-administered with sildenafil citrate (50 mg) to healthy volunteers.When a single 100 mg dose of sildenafil citrate was administered with erythromycin, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, at steady state (500 mg bid for 5 days), there was a 160% increase in sildenafil C max and a 182% increase in sildenafil AUC.
| Point | Explanation | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Take on an empty stomach or after light meal | Food, especially high-fat meals, delays onset | Ensures faster effectiveness |
| Do not exceed recommended dose | Overdose increases side effects and risks | Safety |
| Timing of administration | 30-60 minutes before sexual activity | Optimal results |
| Potential side effects | Headache, flushing, vision changes | Recognize and report unusual effects |
| Avoid alcohol consumption | Can decrease efficacy and increase side effects | Safety |
In addition, in a study performed in healthy male volunteers, co-administration of the HIV protease inhibitor saquinavir, also a CYP3A4 inhibitor, at steady state (1200 mg tid) with sildenafil citrate (100 mg single dose) resulted in a 140% increase in sildenafil C max and a 210% increase in sildenafil AUC.
| Medication Class | Interaction Type | Effect | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrates | Additive hypotensive effect | Severe hypotension | Contraindicated |
| Alpha-blockers | Enhanced hypotension | Blood pressure drop | Use with caution |
| CYP3A4 inhibitors | Increased sildenafil levels | Prolonged or intensified side effects | Dose adjustment may be needed |
| Protease inhibitors | Elevated sildenafil levels | Increased adverse effects | Monitoring required |
A stronger CYP3A4 inhibitor such as ketoconazole or itraconazole could be expected to have greater effect than that seen with saquinavir. Population pharmacokinetic data from patients in clinical trials also indicated a reduction in sildenafil clearance when it was co-administered with CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, or cimetidine) [ see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Drug Interactions (7.4)].In another study in healthy male volunteers, co-administration with the HIV protease inhibitor ritonavir, which is a highly potent P450 inhibitor, at steady state (500 mg bid) with sildenafil citrate (100 mg single dose) resulted in a 300% (4-fold) increase in sildenafil C max and a 1000% (11-fold) increase in sildenafil plasma AUC. At 24 hours the plasma levels of sildenafil were still approximately 200 ng/mL, compared to approximately 5 ng/mL when sildenafil was dosed alone. This is consistent with ritonavir’s marked effects on a broad range of P450 substrates. Sildenafil citrate had no effect on ritonavir pharmacokinetics [ see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Drug Interactions (7.4)].Although the interaction between other protease inhibitors and sildenafil has not been studied, their concomitant use is expected to increase sildenafil levels.In a study of healthy male volunteers, co-administration of sildenafil at steady state (80 mg t.i.d.) with endothelin receptor antagonist bosentan (a moderate inducer of CYP3A4, CYP2C9 and possibly of CYP2C19) at steady state (125 mg b.i.d.) resulted in a 63% decrease of sildenafil AUC and a 55% decrease in sildenafil C max.
5.7 Combination with other PDE5 Inhibitors or Other Erectile Dysfunction Therapies
At 24 hours the plasma levels of sildenafil were still approximately 200 ng/mL, compared to approximately 5 ng/mL when sildenafil was dosed alone. This is consistent with ritonavir’s marked effects on a broad range of P450 substrates. Sildenafil citrate had no effect on ritonavir pharmacokinetics [ see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Drug Interactions (7.4)].Although the interaction between other protease inhibitors and sildenafil has not been studied, their concomitant use is expected to increase sildenafil levels.In a study of healthy male volunteers, co-administration of sildenafil at steady state (80 mg t.i.d.) with endothelin receptor antagonist bosentan (a moderate inducer of CYP3A4, CYP2C9 and possibly of CYP2C19) at steady state (125 mg b.i.d.) resulted in a 63% decrease of sildenafil AUC and a 55% decrease in sildenafil C max. Concomitant administration of strong CYP3A4 inducers, such as rifampin, is expected to cause greater decreases in plasma levels of sildenafil.Single doses of antacid (magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide) did not affect the bioavailability of sildenafil citrate. In healthy male volunteers, there was no evidence of a clinically significant effect of azithromycin (500 mg daily for 3 days) on the systemic exposure of sildenafil or its major circulating metabolite.Pharmacokinetic data from patients in clinical trials showed no effect on sildenafil pharmacokinetics of CYP2C9 inhibitors (such as tolbutamide, warfarin), CYP2D6 inhibitors (such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants), thiazide and related diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers.
Revatio Injection
The AUC of sildenafil 5mg for sale the active metabolite, N-desmethyl sildenafil, was increased 62% by loop and potassium-sparing diuretics and 102% by nonspecific beta-blockers. These effects on the metabolite are not expected to be of clinical consequence.Effects of Sildenafil citrate on Other DrugsIn vitro studies:Sildenafil is a weak inhibitor of the CYP isoforms 1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1 and 3A4 (IC50 >150 µM). Given sildenafil peak plasma concentrations of approximately 1 µM after recommended doses, it is unlikely that sildenafil citrate will alter the clearance of substrates of these isoenzymes.In vivo studies:No significant interactions were shown with tolbutamide (250 mg) or warfarin (40 mg), both of which are metabolized by CYP2C9.In a study of healthy male volunteers, sildenafil (100 mg) did not affect the steady state pharmacokinetics of the HIV protease inhibitors, saquinavir and ritonavir, both of which are CYP3A4 substrates.Sildenafil citrate (50 mg) did not potentiate the increase in bleeding time caused by aspirin (150 mg).Sildenafil at steady state, at a dose not approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (80 mg t.i.d.) resulted in a 50% increase in AUC and a 42% increase in C max of bosentan (125 mg b.i.d.). The physiologic mechanism of erection of the penis involves release of nitric oxide (NO) in the corpus cavernosum during sexual stimulation. NO then activates the enzyme guanylate cyclase, which results in increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), producing smooth muscle relaxation in the corpus cavernosum and allowing inflow of blood. Concomitant administration of strong CYP3A4 inducers, such as rifampin, is expected to cause greater decreases in plasma levels of sildenafil.Single doses of antacid (magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide) did not affect the bioavailability of sildenafil citrate.
8.7 Hepatic Impairment
In healthy male volunteers, there was no evidence of a clinically significant effect of azithromycin (500 mg daily for 3 days) on the systemic exposure of sildenafil or its major circulating metabolite.Pharmacokinetic data from patients in clinical trials showed no effect on sildenafil pharmacokinetics of CYP2C9 inhibitors (such as tolbutamide, warfarin), CYP2D6 inhibitors (such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants), thiazide and related diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers. The AUC of sildenafil 5mg for sale the active metabolite, N-desmethyl sildenafil, was increased 62% by loop and potassium-sparing diuretics and 102% by nonspecific beta-blockers.
2.2 Use with Food
Similar values for pharmacokinetic parameters were seen in normal volunteers and in the patient population, using a population pharmacokinetic approach.Pharmacokinetics in Special PopulationsGeriatrics: Healthy elderly volunteers (65 years or over) had a reduced clearance of sildenafil, resulting in approximately 84% and 107% higher plasma AUC values of sildenafil and its active N-desmethyl metabolite, respectively, compared to those seen in healthy younger volunteers (18 to 45 years). Due to age-differences in plasma protein binding, the corresponding increase in the AUC of free (unbound) sildenafil and its active N-desmethyl metabolite were 45% and 57%, respectively [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5), and Use in Specific Populations (8.5)]Renal Impairment: In volunteers with mild (CLcr=50 to 80 mL/min) and moderate (CLcr=30 to 49 mL/min) renal impairment, the pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of sildenafil citrate (50 mg) were not altered. In volunteers with severe (CLcr <30 mL/min) renal impairment, sildenafil clearance was reduced, resulting in approximately doubling of AUC and C max compared to age-matched volunteers with no renal impairment [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5), and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].In addition, N-desmethyl metabolite AUC and C max values significantly increased by 200% and 79%, respectively in subjects with severe renal impairment compared to subjects with normal renal function.Hepatic Impairment: In volunteers with hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A and B), sildenafil clearance was reduced, resulting in increases in AUC (85%) and C max (47%) compared to age-matched volunteers with no hepatic impairment. The pharmacokinetics of sildenafil in patients with severely impaired hepatic function (Child-Pugh Class C) have not been studied [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5), and Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].Therefore, age >65, hepatic impairment and severe renal impairment are associated with increased plasma levels of sildenafil. A starting oral dose of 25 mg should be considered in those patients [ see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].Drug Interaction StudiesEffects of Other Drugs on Sildenafil citrateSildenafil metabolism is principally mediated by CYP3A4 (major route) and CYP2C9 (minor route).
Administration Notes
Therefore, inhibitors of these isoenzymes may reduce sildenafil clearance and inducers of these isoenzymes may increase sildenafil clearance. The concomitant use of erythromycin or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., saquinavir, ketoconazole, itraconazole) as well as the nonspecific CYP inhibitor, cimetidine, is associated with increased plasma levels of sildenafil [ see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].In vivo studies:Cimetidine (800 mg), a nonspecific CYP inhibitor, caused a 56% increase in plasma sildenafil concentrations when co-administered with sildenafil citrate (50 mg) to healthy volunteers.When a single 100 mg dose of sildenafil citrate was administered with erythromycin, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, at steady state (500 mg bid for 5 days), there was a 160% increase in sildenafil C max and a 182% increase in sildenafil AUC. In addition, in a study performed in healthy male volunteers, co-administration of the HIV protease inhibitor saquinavir, also a CYP3A4 inhibitor, at steady state (1200 mg tid) with sildenafil citrate (100 mg single dose) resulted in a 140% increase in sildenafil C max and a 210% increase in sildenafil AUC. A stronger CYP3A4 inhibitor such as ketoconazole or itraconazole could be expected to have greater effect than that seen with saquinavir. Population pharmacokinetic data from patients in clinical trials also indicated a reduction in sildenafil clearance when it was co-administered with CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, or cimetidine) [ see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Drug Interactions (7.4)].In another study in healthy male volunteers, co-administration with the HIV protease inhibitor ritonavir, which is a highly potent P450 inhibitor, at steady state (500 mg bid) with sildenafil citrate (100 mg single dose) resulted in a 300% (4-fold) increase in sildenafil C max and a 1000% (11-fold) increase in sildenafil plasma AUC. These effects on the metabolite are not expected to be of clinical consequence.Effects of Sildenafil citrate on Other DrugsIn vitro studies:Sildenafil is a weak inhibitor of the CYP isoforms 1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1 and 3A4 (IC50 >150 µM). Given sildenafil peak plasma concentrations of approximately 1 µM after recommended doses, it is unlikely that sildenafil citrate will alter the clearance of substrates of these isoenzymes.In vivo studies:No significant interactions were shown with tolbutamide (250 mg) or warfarin (40 mg), both of which are metabolized by CYP2C9.In a study of healthy male volunteers, sildenafil (100 mg) did not affect the steady state pharmacokinetics of the HIV protease inhibitors, saquinavir and ritonavir, both of which are CYP3A4 substrates.Sildenafil citrate (50 mg) did not potentiate the increase in bleeding time caused by aspirin (150 mg).Sildenafil at steady state, at a dose not approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (80 mg t.i.d.) resulted in a 50% increase in AUC and a 42% increase in C max of bosentan (125 mg b.i.d.). The physiologic mechanism of erection of the penis involves release of nitric oxide (NO) in the corpus cavernosum during sexual stimulation. NO then activates the enzyme guanylate cyclase, which results in increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), producing smooth muscle relaxation in the corpus cavernosum and allowing inflow of blood.
| Condition | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Store below 25°C | Keep in a dry place |
| Light | Protect from light | Use opaque container |
| Humidity | Keep away from moisture | Avoid bathroom storage |
| Shelf Life | Usually 2-3 years | Check expiration date |
Sildenafil at recommended doses has no effect in the absence of sexual stimulation. Studies in vitro have shown that sildenafil is selective for PDE5. This lower selectivity is thought to be the basis for abnormalities related to color vision [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. In addition to human corpus cavernosum smooth muscle, PDE5 is also found in other tissues including platelets, vascular and visceral smooth muscle, and skeletal muscle, brain, heart, liver, kidney, lung, pancreas, prostate, bladder, testis, and seminal vesicle.
Warnings & Precautions
It is eliminated predominantly by hepatic metabolism (mainly CYP3A4) and is converted to an active metabolite with properties similar to the parent, sildenafil. Both sildenafil and the metabolite have terminal half lives of about 4 hours.Mean sildenafil plasma concentrations measured after the administration of a single oral dose of 100 mg to healthy male volunteers is depicted below:Figure 5: Mean Sildenafil Plasma Concentrations in Healthy Male Volunteers.Absorption and Distribution: Sildenafil citrate is rapidly absorbed. Maximum observed plasma concentrations are reached within 30 to 120 minutes (median 60 minutes) of oral dosing in the fasted state. When sildenafil citrate is taken with a high fat meal, the rate of absorption is reduced, with a mean delay in T max of 60 minutes and a mean reduction in C max of 29%. The mean steady state volume of distribution (Vss) for sildenafil is 105 L, indicating distribution into the tissues.
Drug Interactions
Sildenafil and its major circulating N-desmethyl metabolite are both approximately 96% bound to plasma proteins. Protein binding is independent of total drug concentrations.Based upon measurements of sildenafil in semen of healthy volunteers 90 minutes after dosing, less than 0.001% of the administered dose may appear in the semen of patients.Metabolism and Excretion: Sildenafil is cleared predominantly by the CYP3A4 (major route) and CYP2C9 (minor route) hepatic microsomal isoenzymes. The major circulating metabolite results from N-desmethylation of sildenafil, and is itself further metabolized. This metabolite has a PDE selectivity profile similar to sildenafil and an in vitro potency for PDE5 approximately 50% of the parent drug. Plasma concentrations of this metabolite are approximately 40% of those seen for sildenafil, so that the metabolite accounts for about 20% of sildenafil’s pharmacologic effects.After either oral or intravenous administration, sildenafil is excreted as metabolites predominantly in the feces (approximately 80% of administered oral dose) and to a lesser extent in the urine (approximately 13% of the pfizer sildenafil 100 administered oral dose).