Frequently Asked Questions About Sildenafil Citrate

Manoj Kumar - B.Pharmacy

Published : Feb 04, 2024

Last Updated : May 23, 2025

Sildenafil citrate, the prime ingredient in Viagra, is a PDE5 inhibitor used in treating erectile dysfunction.

Also, it helps to ease symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension(PAH).

Sildenafil improves blood flow to the penile region during sexual stimulation to help with ED.

The Common questions for Sildenafil revolve around its dosage, onset time, duration, side effects, and interactions with food or other medications.

If you're considering or already using Sildenafil, it's normal to have questions.

In this blog, we'll answer the most frequently asked questions about Sildenafil.

Know how it works, how to use it safely, and what to expect during treatment.

Common FAQs Related To Sildenafil Citrate(Viagra)

• Is Sildenafil safe?

Sildenafil is generally safe for most men, but it may cause serious side effects in people with heart conditions.

Seek medical help if you experience chest pain or an erection lasting over 4 hours(Priapism)

• Can I take Sildenafil daily?

Yes, Sildenafil can be taken daily if prescribed by your doctor. However, not everyone needs daily use.

Your doctor will recommend the right dose and frequency based on your health, ED severity, and how well your body responds to it.

• Is Sildenafil as good as Viagra?

Viagra is the brand name of Sildenafil, and both medicines work similarly.

Both Viagra and Sildenafil offer the same results and treat erectile dysfunction effectively.

• Does Sildenafil increase size?

Sildenafil citrate can make the male reproductive organs larger than usual when a man is sexually aroused.

This happens because the medication improves the flow of blood to the male sexual organ, increasing its size.

• Can you drink alcohol and take Sildenafil? 

Intake of alcohol is not recommended during the treatment as it decreases the effects of Sildenafil.

Also, this interaction can increase the risk of experiencing severe side effects.

• Is it ok to take 100mg of Sildenafil?

Sildenafil 100mg is the highest safe dose you can take to treat your ED condition.

However, up to one tablet should be taken per day. 

• Can Sildenafil be taken every day?

Sildenafil is a prescription drug and can be taken every day to treat the condition of ED in a short time.

• What does Sildenafil do?

Sildenafil belongs to a class of drugs known as PDE-5 inhibitors and is effective in treating ED or impotence in men.

It stimulates blood vessels to present around the penile region to improve blood circulation to the penis.

Sildenafil's purpose is to ensure proper blood flow to the penis by working on the physical roots to help a man get erections.

• Does Sildenafil make you last longer?

If you find it difficult to stay erect during sexual activity, then Sildenafil can help you stay longer in bed.

You will last longer only when you are sexually aroused.

• How long does Sildenafil last in the body?

Sildenafil lasts in your body for almost four hours.

However, it reaches peak concentration in an hour.

Note that it may stay up to 24 hours in your system, so do not take a double dose during this period.

• How Long Does It Take Sildenafil Citrate to Take Effect?

Sildenafil citrate usually takes up to 30 to 60 minutes to work after its intake.

For best results, take it on an empty stomach and allow time for sexual stimulation.

Its effects can last up to 4 to 6 hours, depending on individual response.

Guide: Learn to Use Sildenafil for the best results.

• How should I take Sildenafil for the best results?

Swallow the pill as a whole with a glass of plain water.

For best results, you must take the tablet on an empty stomach because food can make the medicine take a long time to work.

• What happens if you take 2 Viagra in 24 hours?

Taking more than 100 mg of Sildenafil in 24 hours is not safe.

It can cause serious side effects like low blood pressure, fainting, and severe headaches.

If one dose doesn’t work, talk to your doctor instead of taking another.

• Does Sildenafil increase stamina?

Sildenafil does not directly increase sexual stamina or prevent premature ejaculation.

It supports firmer erections, which may improve confidence and sexual performance.

And note that it’s not designed to make sex last longer or affect endurance.

Know: Can Sildenafil help with Premature ejaculation?

• What happens if I take sildenafil citrate?

Sildenafil citrate treats ED by increasing blood flow to the male sexual organ(penis) during sexual arousal.

This further helps you to meet your sexual desires.

• Does Sildenafil keep you hard after coming?

After ejaculation, Sildenafil helps to maintain the erection by improving blood flow.

As per your sexual desire, you can re-achieve an erection and decrease the refractory time, but it all depends on you.

• How long can the average man stay erect?

Without being on any medicine, the average erection for an average man can be 10 minutes naturally.

Several men fall above or below that average time.

• When is the best time to take Sildenafil?

It is recommended to take a sildenafil tablet before sexual activity as required.

But when it comes to the best time, it is taken one hour before the lovemaking session.

Remember, the medicine should not be taken more than once within 24 hours. 

• Who should not use Sildenafil?

Sildenafil is not recommended for men below the age of 18 years.

Men suffering from heart disease and liver disorders should strictly not use this medication.

In case you take other drugs containing nitrates, then do not take Sildenafil.

• Does Sildenafil work the first time?

How Sildenafil will work for a person can vary; sometimes, it works for everyone.

When you use it, Sildenafil stimulates the blood vessels around your penile region.

However, it needs your sexual stimulation to trigger the mechanism of erection.

If it doesn't work for the first time, do not worry.

Consult your doctor as a change in dosage or making certain changes can help.

• Is Sildenafil safe for sperm?

Research shows Sildenafil doesn’t harm sperm or affect male fertility in healthy men. It has no significant effect on sperm count, movement, or structure.

However, always tell a doctor if you’re planning for fertility treatment or have existing reproductive concerns.

• Does Sildenafil increase size?

Sildenafil doesn’t increase penis size permanently.

It works by increasing blood circulation to the genital area of a male, helping achieve firmer and longer-lasting erections.

The effect is temporary and only occurs with sexual arousal, so it does not enlarge the penis beyond your natural erection size.

• Which is better, tadalafil or Sildenafil?

Tadalafil lasts longer—up to 36 hours—while Sildenafil works for 4–6 hours.

Tadalafil is better for men who prefer flexibility, while Sildenafil may suit those needing a short-term option.

The best choice depends on your lifestyle and how your body responds.

Check out our complete guide on Sildenafil vs. Tadalafil

• What drugs can interact with Sildenafil?

Sildenafil citrate can interact with certain drugs, especially nitrates, causing a dangerous and sudden drop in blood pressure.

It may result in symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or even a heart attack.

Always tell your doctor about any medicines or supplements you're taking so they can adjust your dose safely.

Find out all the possible interactions for Sildenafil.

• Are there any side effects of sildenafil citrate?

Common Sildenafil side effects include headache, flushing, dizziness, and upset stomach.

These often go away as your body adjusts. To reduce dizziness, stand up slowly from sitting or lying down.

Most people use Sildenafil safely under a doctor’s care, as its benefits usually outweigh mild side effects.