Side effects and urgent signs

Sildenafil and tadalafil side effects and warning signs

Every prescription includes directions and safety information. Read it before use, follow the prescribed dose and contact a pharmacist or clinician when you are unsure.

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The direct answer

Headache, flushing, indigestion or nasal stuffiness can occur with common ED medications. Chest pain, severe symptoms, sudden vision or hearing loss, or an erection lasting more than four hours require urgent care.

Common effects

Some people experience headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness, back discomfort or muscle aches. The exact pattern depends on the prescribed medicine and the person.

Urgent warning signs

Call 911 for chest pain, fainting, severe breathing trouble or stroke symptoms. Seek urgent assessment for sudden vision or hearing loss. An erection lasting more than four hours is an emergency.

Contact a pharmacist or seek urgent care

A pharmacist can help with medication-specific questions. If symptoms are severe, unusual or rapidly worsening, do not wait for an online message response.

Help for erection difficulties

ED symptoms and treatment options

Sildenafil and tadalafil help blood vessels relax, improving blood flow during sexual stimulation. That can make it easier to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex.

Trouble getting an erection?

Wanting sex but struggling to get firm enough can be a sign of ED. Find out how prescription treatment may help.

Difficulty getting an erection

Losing your erection during sex?

ED can also mean getting an erection but not keeping it. Learn about losing firmness and when medication may be an option.

Difficulty keeping an erection

Worrying about losing your erection?

Pressure to perform can make erection difficulties worse. Medication may help the erection response, but anxiety may also need separate support.

Performance anxiety and ED

Sexual stimulation is still needed. These medicines do not increase desire and are not suitable for everyone; a prescription is required.

When to seek medical advice

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Useful next steps

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