Revatio

Generic name: Sildenafil citrate

What is Revatio?

Revatio is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). With PAH, the blood pressure in your lungs is too high. Your heart has to work hard to pump blood into your lungs. Revatio works to lower the blood pressure in your lungs and consequently helps to improve your ability to exercise...

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.

Revatio should also not be used if you are on therapy with ritonavir.

Revatio may cause you to develop very low blood pressure levels. It is important to notify your physician if you have a history of having low blood pressure levels.

It is important to immediately notify your physician if you experience any type of hearing or vision problems while on therapy with Revatio.

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.

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 are taking nitrate medications; are taking ritonavir; have a history of low blood pressure levels; have pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD); have experienced either a heart attack, stroke, or life threatening arrhythmia within the past 6 months; have coronary artery disease with angina (chest pain); have high blood pressure; have retinitis pigmentosa; are on therapy with bosentan; are on therapy with alpha-blockers; if you are a male and have penis deformities; if you have sickle cell anemia; have multiple myeloma; have leukemia; have a bleeding disorder; or if you have an active peptic ulcer..

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) three times a day.

How should I take Revatio?

Revatio tablets should be taken 4-6 hours apart, at approximately the same time each day, with or without food.

What should I avoid while taking Revatio?

You must avoid using nitrate medications while you are taking Revatio. In addition, you should avoid taking Revatio if you are taking ritonavir.

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: amlodipine, barbiturates, bosentan, carbamazepine, cimetidine, doxazosin, efavirenz, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nevirapine, nitrates, phenytoin, rifampin, rifabutin, ritonavir, and vitamin K antagonists.

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: diarrhea, flushing, fever, headache, indigestion, insomnia, inflammation of the stomach, muscle pain, nose bleed, redness of the skin, runny nose, sinus inflammation, tingling or numbing of a body part, worsening shortness of breath

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 almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the regular scheduled time. Do not take a double dose.

How should I store Revatio?

Store Revatio at room temperature and keep out of the reach of children.