Sildenafil is a popular medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It is the main ingredient in Viagra. Many men take sildenafil to help them get and maintain an erection when sexually aroused. A common question is: how long does sildenafil last?
How Sildenafil Works
Sildenafil belongs to a group of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors. It helps increase blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This makes it easier to get and keep an erection.
It’s important to know that sildenafil does not cause an automatic erection. Sexual stimulation is still needed for it to work.
How Long Does Sildenafil Last?
Onset: Sildenafil usually starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it.
Peak Effect: The strongest effect occurs about 1 hour after taking the pill.
Duration: Sildenafil’s effects generally last 4 to 6 hours.
During this time, you should be able to get an erection with sexual stimulation. The medicine gradually leaves your body after this period.
Factors That Affect How Long Sildenafil Works
Several things can change how quickly sildenafil works and how long it lasts:
Food: Eating a heavy or fatty meal before taking sildenafil can slow its absorption.
Age: Older men may metabolize sildenafil more slowly, which can change how long it lasts.
Dosage: Standard doses are usually 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg. Higher doses may last slightly longer but can also increase side effects.
Other Medicines: Some medicines can interfere with sildenafil and affect its duration.
Health Conditions: Heart, liver, or kidney problems can change how the body processes sildenafil.
Tips for Using Sildenafil Safely
Take sildenafil about 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity.
Do not take more than one dose per day.
Avoid excessive alcohol, as it can reduce effectiveness.
Talk to your doctor if you have heart problems, low blood pressure, or take nitrates.
Store sildenafil in a cool, dry place away from children.
What Happens After Sildenafil Wears Off?
Once sildenafil leaves your system, erections will return to normal. If you do not feel aroused, the medicine will not produce an erection. It does not permanently change sexual ability.
Side Effects to Watch For
Most side effects are mild and temporary:
Headache
Flushing (redness in face or neck)
Upset stomach or indigestion
Nasal congestion
Dizziness
Seek medical help immediately if you experience serious side effects:
Chest pain
Sudden vision or hearing loss
Erections lasting longer than 4 hours (priapism)
Summary
Sildenafil usually starts working 30–60 minutes after taking it.
Effects last about 4–6 hours.
Food, age, dosage, other medicines, and health conditions can affect how long it works.
Sexual stimulation is still needed to get an erection.
Follow your doctor’s instructions for safe and effective use.
With a decade of experience in pharmaceutical research and medical writing, I specialize in exploring the science behind erectile dysfunction medications. My work emphasizes treatment innovation, safety evaluations, and patient-centric care strategies.
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