Medicines for Erection Problems: Reactions With Nitrate
Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil
(for example, Viagra), have revolutionized the
treatment of
erection problems (erectile dysfunction). But they can
cause life-threatening side effects for anyone who also takes nitroglycerin or
another medicine containing an organic nitrate. This combination can make your
blood pressure fall too low, possibly leading to a
stroke, a
heart attack, or death. Do not take nitrate-containing
medicines up to 24 hours after you take sildenafil (for example, Viagra) or vardenafil
(for example, Levitra), or up to 48 hours after you take tadalafil (for example, Cialis).
Medicines that contain organic nitrates include:
- Nitroglycerin (such as Nitro-Dur,
Nitrolingual, Nitrostat).
- Isosorbide (such as
Dilatrate,
Isordil).
- Nitroprusside (such as Nitropress).
- Amyl nitrite
or amyl nitrate (sometimes called "poppers"), which are sometimes
abused.
Nitrates found in foods are not a danger when taking
phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors.
Other Works Consulted
- Levine GN, et al. (2012). Sexual activity and cardiovascular disease: A scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 125(8): 1058–1072.
|
By
| Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
| E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
| Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology, Oncology |
|
Last Revised
| May 14, 2012 |
Last Revised:
May 14, 2012
