Main Research Findings

This study evaluated the safety and side effects of sildenafil in a group of sexually active volunteers under 40 years old without sexual stimulation. A single oral dose of 50 mg sildenafil (n = 20) or placebo (n = 20) was randomly administered to 40 sexually active volunteers with a mean age of 26.80 +/- 5.29 in the sildenafil group and 25.70 +/- 4.95 in the placebo group. The only statistically significant difference was between heart rates before and after the administration of sildenafil (p = 0.02). Color vision, visual acuity tests yielded no differences. The decrease in blood pressure was not significant. 1

Reasons for Side Effects

Side effects of sildenafil are due to various physiological responses that occur when the drug enters the body. Sildenafil inhibits the breakdown of cGMP, a substance that causes vasodilation, leading to dilation of blood vessels and increased blood flow. This effect helps improve erections but can also affect other organs and tissues. As a result, side effects such as headache and flushing may occur.

Common Side Effects

Flushing

Flushing occurred as a side effect in 75% of the sildenafil group. This is due to the vasodilatory effect of sildenafil. 1

Headache

Headache occurred as a side effect in 50% of the sildenafil group and 5% of the placebo group. Sildenafil can cause headaches by dilating blood vessels. 1

Dyspepsia

Dyspepsia occurred as a side effect in 15% of the sildenafil group and 5% of the placebo group. Sildenafil may cause dyspepsia by relaxing the muscles of the stomach. 1

Unintentional Incomplete Sexual Arousal

Unintentional incomplete sexual arousal occurred as a side effect in 15% of the sildenafil group. Sildenafil is a drug that promotes erections and can cause erections even without sexual stimulation. 1

Palpitation

Palpitation occurred as a side effect in 15% of the sildenafil group and 10% of the placebo group. Sildenafil can increase heart rate, which can cause palpitations. 1

Side Effects Management

Flushing

Flushing usually subsides within a few hours. If flushing persists, consult a doctor. 1

Headache

Headache can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. If the headache persists, consult a doctor. 1

Dyspepsia

If dyspepsia is severe, avoid eating large meals or eat light meals. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor. 1

Unintentional Incomplete Sexual Arousal

Unintentional incomplete sexual arousal usually subsides within a few hours. If the symptoms persist, consult a doctor. 1

Palpitation

If palpitations are severe, rest and consult a doctor. 1

Comparison Across Studies

Commonalities in Studies

This study suggests that sildenafil may cause certain side effects, such as an increase in heart rate. Other studies have shown that sildenafil can affect vision and blood pressure. 1

Differences in Studies

This study evaluated side effects of sildenafil under conditions without sexual stimulation. Other studies have evaluated the side effects of sildenafil under conditions with sexual stimulation.

Considerations for Real-World Applications

Sildenafil is a drug used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. However, sildenafil can cause side effects. Consult a doctor before taking sildenafil.

Limitations of the Current Study

This study was conducted with a relatively small sample size. Furthermore, the study was conducted under conditions without sexual stimulation. Therefore, the results of this study may not be applicable to other conditions when taking sildenafil.

Future Research Directions

It is necessary to evaluate the side effects of sildenafil with a larger sample size and under conditions with sexual stimulation.

Conclusion

Sildenafil is an effective drug for treating erectile dysfunction. However, sildenafil may cause some side effects, such as an increase in heart rate. Consult a doctor before taking sildenafil.