Revatio
Generic Name: Sildenafil
What is Revatio?
Revatio is a prescription medicine used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), which is high blood pressure in the arteries of your lungs. It can improve your ability to exercise and help slow the worsening of your physical condition and symptoms.What is the most important information I should know about Revatio?
It is important that Revatio is not combined with any type of nitrate medicines. This could lead to your blood pressure dropping quickly to an unsafe level. Nitrate medicines include medicines that treat chest pain (angina), nitroglycerin in any form, isosorbide mononitrate or dinitrate, or street drugs called "poppers" (amyl nitrate or nitrite). Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure if you are taking a nitrate medicine.Revatio contains the same medicine as Viagra (sildenafil), which is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence). Do not take Revatio with Viagra or other drugs in this class.
Revatio may cause you to develop very low blood pressure. It is important to notify your physician if you have a history of low blood pressure.
Tell your doctor if you get more short of breath after you start Revatio. More shortness of breath than usual may be due to your underlying medical condition.
It is important to immediately notify your physician if you experience any type of hearing or vision problems while on therapy with Revatio.
Tell your doctor right away if you have an erection that lasts more than 4 hours.
Who should not take Revatio?
Revatio should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to it or any of its components. Revatio should also not be taken if you are taking nitrate medications or ritonavir.Revatio has not yet been studied in children <18 years old or in patients taking a medicine called Tracleer (bosentan).
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Revatio?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Revatio. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you: have had a heart attack, stroke, or irregular heartbeat in the last 6 months; have chest pain (angina); have pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD); have high or low blood pressure or blood circulation problems; have an eye problem called retinitis pigmentosa; have or had loss of sight in one or both eyes; have liver or kidney problems; have any problem with the shape of your penis; have experienced dehydration; have any blood cell problems such as a blood or bone marrow cancer or sickle cell anemia; have a stomach ulcer or any bleeding problems; are pregnant or planning to become pregnant; or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The recommended dose of Revatio is 20 milligrams (mg) by mouth three times a day or 10 mg (12.5 milliliters [mL]) three times a day intravenously (IV).
How should I take Revatio?
Take Revatio exactly how your doctor tells you. Take a Revatio tablet three times a day about 4-6 hours apart. Take Revatio at the same times every day, with or without food.What should I avoid while taking Revatio?
You must avoid using nitrate medications while you are taking Revatio.Do not change your dose or stop taking Revatio on your own. Talk to your doctor first.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Revatio?
If Revatio is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Revatio with the following: alpha-blockers for prostate or blood pressure problems, amlodipine, barbiturates, bosentan, carbamazepine, cimetidine, coumadin, efavirenz, erectile dysfunction medications, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nevirapine, nitrates, phenytoin, rifampin, rifabutin, ritonavir, sildenafil, or warfarin.What are the possible side effects of Revatio?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: nosebleeds, headache, upset stomach, flushing, trouble sleeping
Can I receive Revatio if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Revatio during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Revatio?
If you miss a dose of Revatio, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take more than one dose of Revatio at a time.How should I store Revatio?
Store Revatio at room temperature and keep out of the reach of children.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
