Revatio (Sildenafil (As Citrate))
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Revatio Used For?
Revatio is a medication that contains sildenafil, which helps treat pulmonary arterial hypertension by relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs and lowering blood pressure.
Primary Uses
Revatio is primarily used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs.
How It Works
Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Revatio, works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), leading to relaxation of blood vessels and improved blood flow.
Good to know: Revatio is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Revatio
It is important to take Revatio exactly as prescribed by your doctor to ensure its effectiveness.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dosage is one 20 mg tablet taken three times a day, spaced 6-8 hours apart. Revatio can be taken with or without food.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- headache
- dizziness
- flushing
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- muscle aches
- back or limb pain
- rash
- diarrhoea
- numbness or tingling
- breathlessness or coughing
- fever or flu-like symptoms
- nosebleeds
- difficulty sleeping
- hay fever
- prolonged erection
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- sudden vision problems or loss of vision in one or both eyes
- loss of hearing or ringing in the ears
- erection lasting more than 4 hours
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before using Revatio.
Who Should Not Take Revatio
Do not take Revatio if you are allergic to sildenafil or any of its ingredients, are taking nitrates for chest pain, or have certain medical conditions such as severe liver problems or recent heart attack.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have heart or blood vessel problems, diabetes, a history of vision problems, or are receiving treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Revatio should not be used during pregnancy, and breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Revatio may interact with other medications, which can affect how it works.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid drinking grapefruit juice as it may increase sildenafil levels in your blood.
- Nitrate medications (e.g., nitroglycerin)
- Guanylate cyclase stimulators (e.g., riociguat)
- Alpha-blockers
- Certain epilepsy medications (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)
- St. John's wort
- Rifampicin
- Erythromycin
- Saquinavir
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol or driving while taking Revatio.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol may cause lightheadedness while using Revatio.
Driving and Operating Machinery
If you experience dizziness or changes in vision, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Storage
Store Revatio tablets in a cool, dry place below 30°C, out of reach of children. Keep them in their original packaging until use.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Revatio, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Revatio typically starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes after taking the tablet.
Yes, Revatio can be taken with or without food.
No, Revatio is not considered to be addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Revatio, as sudden discontinuation may affect your condition.
You should be cautious with alcohol consumption, as it may increase feelings of lightheadedness.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor, especially if they have dementia or other health concerns.
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double up.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.