How long does Sildenafil last?

How long does Sildenafil last? Sildenafil, a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), is quite short-acting and typically lasts about 4 hours. However, in some men, its effects may last as long as 10 hours. (3)

Sildenafil is an effective drug for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and starts to work as quickly as 12 minutes in some men, with a large proportion feeling the effects by 30 minutes, and the majority by 45 minutes. (1) By 24 hours, the medication is at very low or undetectable levels in the body.

Key takeaways

• Sildenafil typically lasts around 4 hours.
• The drug begins working in 30–45 minutes, though some men may feel effects as quickly as 12 minutes.
• Factors like age, health, alcohol use, and other medications can influence how long Sildenafil lasts.
• Sildenafil requires sexual stimulation to work and is safe for most men, but consult a doctor to ensure it’s right for you.

Factors that can affect how long Sildenafil lasts

The effects of Sildenafil typically last 4 hours. But here are some key factors that might influence how long it works for you:

1. Your age: As you age, your metabolism slows down. If you're over 65, you might find that Sildenafil takes a bit longer to kick in and stays in your system longer.
2. Drinking habits: While having a drink or two probably won't make a big difference, the NHS warns that drinking a lot of alcohol could make it more difficult for you to get an erection. It's best to limit alcohol when taking this medication.
3. How much you take: Sildenafil's half-life stays the same regardless of dosage. A higher dose might have effects that last a bit longer, but always follow your doctor's recommendations.
4. Your state of mind: Feeling stressed, anxious, or down can impact how well Sildenafil works for you. Your mental state plays a big role in sexual function, so it's important to feel relaxed and in a good headspace.
5. Your overall health: Some health conditions, like diabetes, can affect how your body responds to Sildenafil. This might change how long the medication works for you.
6. Other medications: If you're taking other medicines, the list of Sildenafil interactions warns that antibiotics like clarithromycin or ciprofloxacin might interact with Sildenafil, potentially changing how long it stays active in your body.

If you feel like Sildenafil isn't lasting as long as you'd expect, it's a good idea to htalk toyour doctor. They can help fdetermineif anything needs to be adjusted to better suit your needs.

How does this compare with other Erectile Dysfunction drugs?

Vardenafil (generic Levitra) has a half-life similar to Sildenafil of 4-5 hours. The half-life is the time it takes for the drug's concentration to fall to half its original level. Once this happens, the drug will no longer be as effective.

Tadalafil tablets have a much longer half-life of 17.5 hours (2) and can be effective up to 36 hours. This extended duration has led to Tadalafil being nicknamed "the weekend pill."

Is it safe to use Sildenafil?

Sildenafil has been licensed to treat ED since 1998. Many years of safety data have proved it safe and effective. Its potential side effects, such as headaches, nausea and dizziness, are manageable.

However, like all medications, Sildenafil can cause more serious side effects in rare cases. It's important to discuss any health conditions and medications you're taking with your doctor to ensure Sildenafil is safe for you.

Who should take it?

Most men who are experiencing erectile dysfunction may be able to take Sildenafil.

Before 2013 the use of Sildenafil was restricted. It was only prescribed in its branded form ‘Viagra’, which was expensive and reserved for men with specific medical conditions. When new and cheaper unbranded versions became available, the benefits could be made available to the broader population. This change has made Sildenafil more accessible to a wider range of men experiencing ED.

Why do I need an online consultation before I can use it?

This is because Sildenafil is not suitable for everyone. Men with low blood pressure, advanced liver disease, or who have recently suffered a heart attack or stroke should not take it. Nor should men who are taking medication that contains nitrates or those who have a rare eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa.

An online consultation helps ensure your safety by allowing a healthcare provider to review your medical history and current health status.

They can determine if Sildenafil is safe for you, decide on the appropriate dosage, and discuss any potential side effects or precautions you should be aware of.

When and how should Sildenafil be taken?

Most men will feel its effects in around 45 minutes. So, taking Sildenafil around 45 minutes to an hour before sexual activity is ideal. You might come across recommendations to take it 2 hours after a meal. However, studies have shown that taking it shortly before or with a meal does not influence its effectiveness (3). The erections produced by Sildenafil are not spontaneous and require sexual stimulation.

The usual sildenafil dose advised by the NHS is 50mg but your doctor can adjust the dose as needed depending on the effects. Always follow your doctor's instructions and don't take more than one dose per day.

How does Sildenafil work?

Sildenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor. It works by stopping the breakdown of tiny molecules in cells that are involved in signalling pathways that increase blood flow to the penis. In simpler terms, Sildenafil helps relax and widen the blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow in when a man is sexually aroused. This increased blood flow is what helps create and maintain an erection.

It's important to understand that Sildenafil doesn't cause erections on its own. The erections produced by Sildenafil are not spontaneous and require a sexual stimulus. This means you still need to be sexually aroused for the medication to work.

It's usual to start at a dose of 50mg and adjust the dose as needed depending on the effects. Your doctor will help determine the right dose for you based on your individual needs and response to the medication.

Are there any side effects with Sildenafil?

According to the NHS guidance, the most common side effects that affect more than 1 in 100 people include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Flushing
• Nasal congestion
• Nausea and gastric problems

Rare side effects include allergic reactions and priapism (an erection lasting more than 4hrs) Both of these require urgent medical attention.

It’s important to fully read the patient information leaflet to be aware of the rarer side effects.

How Oxford Online Pharmacy Can Help

If you're considering Sildenafil as a treatment option, Oxford Online Pharmacy is here to support you.

As a trusted, fully registered UK pharmacy, we understand the importance of discretion and professional care when it comes to ED treatment. Our process is designed with your comfort and safety in mind.

Simply visit our website and complete our confidential online consultation. Our experienced doctors will carefully review your information to ensure Sildenafil is your right choice.

If Sildenafil is suitable, we'll arrange a discreet delivery to your preferred address.

Taking the first step towards addressing ED can feel daunting, but remember, effective treatment is available. Let Oxford Online Pharmacy guide you towards a solution that works for you.

We're here to answer any questions you might have about ED treatment or the process. Feel free to reach out to our caring team.

FAQs

Why is my Sildenafil not working?

Sildenafil may not work due to incorrect dosage, taking it too soon after eating, insufficient sexual stimulation, or underlying health issues. Consult your doctor if the problem persists.

Can you drink alcohol while taking Sildenafil?

Moderate alcohol consumption is generally safe with Sildenafil. However, excessive drinking can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. It's best to limit alcohol intake when using Sildenafil.

Do you stay hard after coming with Sildenafil?

Sildenafil doesn't typically maintain an erection after ejaculation. Once orgasm is achieved, the penis usually returns to its flaccid state.

However, some men may experience a shorter refractory period and be able to achieve another erection sooner.

Related Articles

• Erectile Dysfunction - It's Not Unusual
• Erectile Dysfunction: Risk factors and Remedies
• Erection Problems? What Are Your Options?
• Common Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction
• Treat The Cause, Not The Symptoms, Urges ED Expert
• Popular Erectile Dysfunction Medication Now Available Off-Brand
• Lifestyle Factors that can affect Erectile Dysfunction
• Men - 10 Ways To Improve Your Love Life

References

1. Br J Clin Pharm 2002 Feb; 53(Suppl 1): 61S–65S. Onset and duration of action of Sildenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction Ian Eardley,1 Peter Ellis,2 Mitradev Boolell,2 and Maria Wulff2
2. Urological Science June 2016, Pages 66-70 Evolution of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in treatment of erectile dysfunction in Taiwan Ban Ping Jiann
3. Do food and dose timing affect the efficacy of Sildenafil? A randomized placebo-controlled study. Norman Zinner. J Sex Med 2007 Jan;4(1):137-144Related Articles