Hypertension, Men's Health, Women's HealthRevatio (Generic)
Generic drugs, marketed without brand names, contain the exact same active ingredients used in their brand-name counterparts, but cost significantly less. The drugs are required to meet US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards for safety, purity and effectiveness.
Revatio
Generic Revation works by relaxing the muscles and increasing the amount of blood that flows to certain parts of the body.
Generic Revatio, known generically as sildenafil citrate, is a medication primarily used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and erectile dysfunction (ED). While the brand-name drug Revatio is specifically indicated for PAH, the generic version, sildenafil citrate, is widely recognized for its role in treating ED under the brand name Viagra. This extensive discussion will cover the pharmacology, therapeutic uses, mechanism of action, clinical efficacy, side effects, and broader implications of Generic Revatio in medical practice.
1. Introduction to Generic Revatio
Generic Revatio contains the active ingredient sildenafil citrate, a potent and selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). Originally developed by Pfizer, sildenafil was first approved by the FDA in 1998 for the treatment of erectile dysfunction under the brand name Viagra. Later, it was approved for pulmonary arterial hypertension under the brand name Revatio. The availability of generic sildenafil citrate has made this medication more accessible and affordable, expanding its use in both indications.
2. Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action
Sildenafil citrate works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which is responsible for the degradation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP is a key mediator of vasodilation and smooth muscle relaxation. By inhibiting PDE5, sildenafil increases the levels of cGMP, leading to relaxation of smooth muscle cells and dilation of blood vessels.
In Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): In PAH, the blood vessels in the lungs are constricted, leading to increased pulmonary artery pressure and strain on the heart. By inhibiting PDE5 in the pulmonary vasculature, sildenafil promotes vasodilation, reduces pulmonary artery pressure, and improves exercise capacity and symptoms in patients with PAH.
In Erectile Dysfunction (ED): In ED, the relaxation of smooth muscle in the corpus cavernosum of the penis is impaired, leading to inadequate blood flow and inability to achieve or maintain an erection. Sildenafil enhances the effects of nitric oxide (NO) released during sexual stimulation, leading to increased cGMP levels, smooth muscle relaxation, and improved blood flow to the penis, facilitating an erection.
3. Therapeutic Uses
Generic Revatio (sildenafil citrate) is approved for the following indications:
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Sildenafil is used to improve exercise capacity and delay clinical worsening in patients with PAH (WHO Group I). It is typically administered in a dose of 20 mg three times daily.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Sildenafil is used to treat ED in men, with the typical dose ranging from 25 mg to 100 mg taken as needed, approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity.
4. Clinical Efficacy
Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of sildenafil in both PAH and ED:
PAH: In clinical studies, sildenafil significantly improved exercise capacity, as measured by the 6-minute walk test, and reduced pulmonary artery pressure. It has been shown to improve symptoms, quality of life, and hemodynamic parameters in patients with PAH.
ED: Sildenafil has been shown to be effective in a wide range of patients with ED, including those with diabetes, hypertension, and spinal cord injury. Clinical trials have demonstrated that sildenafil improves the ability to achieve and maintain an erection, leading to successful sexual intercourse in a significant proportion of patients.
5. Pharmacokinetics
Sildenafil citrate is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 30 to 120 minutes. The bioavailability of sildenafil is approximately 40%, and it is extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, primarily CYP3A4. The major metabolite, N-desmethyl sildenafil, has about 50% of the pharmacological activity of the parent compound. Sildenafil and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the feces (approximately 80%) and urine (approximately 13%).
The half-life of sildenafil is about 4 hours, but this can be prolonged in patients with hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment. The drug is highly protein-bound (approximately 96%), primarily to albumin.
6. Side Effects and Safety Profile
Sildenafil is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
Headache: The most common side effect, occurring in up to 16% of patients.
Flushing: Reported in about 10% of patients.
Dyspepsia: Indigestion or stomach discomfort occurs in about 7% of patients.
Nasal Congestion: Reported in about 4% of patients.
Visual Disturbances: Including blurred vision and changes in color perception, occur in about 3% of patients.
Dizziness: Reported in about 2% of patients.
Serious but rare side effects include:
Priapism: A prolonged and painful erection that requires immediate medical attention.
Sudden Hearing Loss: Although rare, there have been reports of sudden hearing loss associated with sildenafil use.
Cardiovascular Events: Sildenafil can cause a transient decrease in blood pressure, and caution is advised in patients with cardiovascular disease.
7. Contraindications and Precautions
Sildenafil is contraindicated in patients who:
Are taking nitrates or nitric oxide donors, as the combination can cause a severe drop in blood pressure.
Have a known hypersensitivity to sildenafil or any component of the formulation.
Precautions should be taken in patients with:
Cardiovascular Disease: Sildenafil can cause a transient decrease in blood pressure, and caution is advised in patients with a history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or life-threatening arrhythmias within the last 6 months.
Hepatic or Renal Impairment: Dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment.
Anatomical Deformities of the Penis: Such as Peyronie's disease or angulation, which may increase the risk of priapism.
8. Drug Interactions
Sildenafil can interact with several other medications, including:
Nitrates: Concomitant use with nitrates is contraindicated due to the risk of severe hypotension.
Alpha-Blockers: Concurrent use with alpha-blockers can cause additive hypotensive effects.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Drugs that inhibit CYP3A4, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and ritonavir, can increase sildenafil levels and the risk of side effects.
CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs that induce CYP3A4, such as rifampin, can decrease sildenafil levels and reduce its efficacy.
9. Generic Revatio in Clinical Practice
The availability of generic sildenafil citrate has had a significant impact on clinical practice:
Cost-Effectiveness: Generic sildenafil is significantly less expensive than the brand-name versions, making it more accessible to patients.
Expanded Use: The lower cost has led to increased use of sildenafil in both PAH and ED, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Off-Label Uses: Sildenafil has been explored for other conditions, such as Raynaud's phenomenon, altitude sickness, and female sexual dysfunction, although these uses are not FDA-approved.
10. Future Directions and Research
Ongoing research is exploring new indications and formulations for sildenafil:
Pediatric PAH: Studies are investigating the safety and efficacy of sildenafil in children with PAH.
New Formulations: Research is underway to develop alternative formulations, such as sublingual tablets and topical gels, to improve bioavailability and patient compliance.
Combination Therapy: Studies are exploring the use of sildenafil in combination with other PAH therapies, such as endothelin receptor antagonists and prostacyclin analogs, to enhance efficacy.
11. Conclusion
Generic Revatio (sildenafil citrate) is a versatile and widely used medication with significant benefits for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and erectile dysfunction. Its mechanism of action, clinical efficacy, and safety profile have made it a cornerstone of therapy for these conditions. The availability of generic sildenafil has further expanded its use, making it more accessible to patients worldwide. As research continues to explore new indications and formulations, the role of sildenafil in medical practice is likely to grow, offering new hope and improved outcomes for patients.
In summary, Generic Revatio represents a significant advancement in the treatment of PAH and ED, with a well-established safety and efficacy profile. Its impact on patient care and quality of life underscores the importance of continued research and development in this field.
Sildenafil
What kind of medication is this?
The muscle-relaxing effects of SILDENAFIL are compounded by an increase in blood flow to certain regions of the body.
Both men and women can benefit from increased exercise capacity and treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension when they take sildenafil. Men who suffer from erectile dysfunction, often known as impotence, might benefit from taking sildenafil, which is sold under the trade name Viagra. If your physician has not instructed you otherwise, do not take Viagra while you are also taking Sildenafil.
It should be noted that this medication guide does not cover all of the possible applications of sildenafil.
What is the correct way to take this medication?
Sildenafil should not be taken by anybody who is simultaneously taking a nitrate medication for the treatment of chest discomfort or heart issues. They include nitroglycerin (sold under brand names such as Nitrostat, Nitrolingual, Nitro-Dur, and Nitro-Bid), isosorbide dinitrate (sold under brand names such as Dilatrate-SR, Isordil, and Sorbitrate), and isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur, ISMO, Monoket). Amyl nitrate and nitrite are two examples of recreational drugs that include nitrates ("poppers"). Using Sildenafil with any medication that contains nitrates might result in an abrupt and potentially life-threatening drop in blood pressure. During sexual activity, if you feel sick to your stomach, lightheaded, or experience pain, tingling, or numbness in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw, you should immediately stop what you're doing and call your doctor. There is a possibility that Sildenafil is causing you to have a major adverse effect. Sildenafil should not be used more than once per 24 hours. Be sure that there is a gap of 24 hours between each dose. If your physician has not instructed you otherwise, do not take Viagra while you are also taking Sildenafil. If your erection is uncomfortable or continues for more than four hours, you should contact your primary care physician or go to the nearest hospital emergency room for assistance. A protracted erection, often known as priapism, can be harmful to the penis.
Sildenafil may reduce the amount of blood that flows to the optic nerve in the eye, which can result in an abrupt loss of vision. This has happened in a relatively small number of people who take Sildenafil. The majority of these people also had a preexisting condition such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain eye problems. Other risk factors include smoking and being over the age of 50. There is a lack of evidence to suggest that Sildenafil is the actual cause of eyesight loss.
If you have abrupt vision loss, you should immediately stop using Sildenafil and seek emergency medical assistance.
Before I start using this medication, what should I discuss with my primary care physician?
Sildenafil should not be taken by anybody who is simultaneously taking a nitrate medication for the treatment of chest discomfort or heart issues. This comprises nitroglycerin (available under brand names such as Nitrostat, Nitrolingual, Nitro-Dur, and Nitro-Bid), isosorbide dinitrate (available under brand names such as Dilatrate-SR, Isordil, and Sorbitrate), and isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur, ISMO, Monoket). Amyl nitrate and nitrite are two examples of recreational drugs that include nitrates ("poppers"). When used with nitrate medications, Sildenafil can result in a dangerous drop in blood pressure, which can put a person at risk for passing out, having a stroke, or having a heart attack.
Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have, especially if you have: heart disease or heart rhythm problems, coronary artery disease; a recent history (within the past six months) of a heart attack, stroke, or congestive heart failure; high or low blood pressure; liver disease; kidney disease; a blood cell disorder such as sickle cell anemia, multiple myeloma, or leukemia; a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia; a stomach ulcer; reti
If you have any of these problems, your dose of Sildenafil may need to be adjusted or you may need to undergo further testing before you may take it safely.
Sildenafil may reduce the amount of blood that flows to the optic nerve in the eye, which can result in an abrupt loss of vision. This has happened in a relatively small number of people who take Sildenafil. The majority of these people also had a preexisting condition such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain eye problems. Other risk factors include smoking and being over the age of 50. There is a lack of evidence to suggest that Sildenafil is the actual cause of eyesight loss. If you have abrupt vision loss, you should immediately stop using Sildenafil and seek emergency medical assistance.
FDA pregnancy category B indicates that there is a low probability that the medicine may cause damage to an unborn child. If you are pregnant or want to get pregnant while using Sildenafil, you should not use the medication without first seeing your doctor. It is not known whether sildenafil is excreted into breast milk or whether it might cause damage to a baby who is being breastfed. If you are a nursing mother, you should not take this drug without first consulting your healthcare provider.
What is the correct way to take Sildenafil?
Consume Sildenafil in accordance with the directions that came with your prescription. Do not take it in greater or lesser amounts than your doctor has prescribed, and do not take it for a longer period of time. Be sure to take your medication exactly as directed on the label.
Sildenafil is typically taken three times a day, with each dose being approximately four to six hours apart.
Sildenafil should be kept at room temperature and kept away from heat and moisture.
What can I expect if I forget to take a dose?
If you forget to take a dosage of Sildenafil, you should take it as soon as you realize you forgot it. If it is almost time for the next dosage, you should skip the missed dose and take the drug at the next regularly scheduled time instead of taking it when you forgot. It is not necessary to take additional medication in order to make up for a missed dosage.
What happens if I overdose?
Immediately seek out the assistance of a qualified medical professional or dial the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Symptoms of an overdose might include chest discomfort, nausea, dizziness, an irregular heartbeat, and a sense of fainting or lightheadedness.
While I'm taking Sildenafil, what should I try not to do?
It is important to abstain from consuming alcohol while taking Sildenafil since it might make some of the negative effects worse. Avoid using drugs to cure impotence without first consulting your physician. Some examples of these medications are alprostadil (Caverject, Muse, Edex) and yohimbine (Yocon, Yodoxin, and others).
What other substances could react with this medication?
Avoid taking Sildenafil in conjunction with other drugs that work in a similar manner, such as avanafil (Stendra), tadalafil (Cialis), or vardenafil (Levitra). Discuss any drugs you take for erectile dysfunction with your primary care physician.
Inform your physician if you are already using any of the following drugs before beginning treatment with Sildenafil:
nefazodone is an example of an antidepressant; clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin (E.E.S., EryPed, Erythrocin, Pediazole), rifampin (Rifater, Rifadin, Rifamate), or telithromycin (Ketek) are examples of antibiotics; and telithromycin (Ketek) is an example of an antifungal medication (Aptivus).
This list is not exhaustive, and there is a possibility that Sildenafil will interact with additional medications. Discuss all of the drugs you use with your primary care provider. This covers items purchased with a prescription, those bought over the counter, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Do not begin taking a new medicine before consulting with your primary care physician.
What can I expect if I forget to take a dose?
If you forget to take a dosage, take it as soon as you realize it. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dosage, you should skip the dose that you missed. It is not safe to take more medication in an attempt to make up for a missed dosage.
What happens if I overdose?
Immediately go to the hospital for treatment or dial the poison control hotline. Symptoms of an overdose may include more severe manifestations of a number of the adverse effects described in this drug reference.
What potential negative reactions may I have to this medication?
If you have any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, you should seek immediate medical attention: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or neck. During sexual activity, if you feel sick to your stomach, lightheaded, or experience pain, tingling, or numbness in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw, you should immediately stop what you're doing and call your doctor. There is a possibility that Sildenafil is causing you to have a major adverse effect.
If you have any of the following major adverse effects, you should immediately stop using Sildenafil and contact your doctor:
sudden vision loss; ringing in the ears or sudden hearing loss; chest pain or heavy feeling; pain spreading to the arm or shoulder; nausea; sweating; general ill feeling; irregular heartbeat; swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet; shortness of breath; vision changes; feeling lightheaded or fainting; or a penis erection that is painful or that lasts for four hours or longer.
Some of the less significant side effects of Sildenafil include a stuffy nose, headache, memory issues, stomach trouble, and back discomfort. You may also have warmth or redness in your face, neck, or chest.
This list of potential adverse effects is not exhaustive; additional symptoms may also surface. Make an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss any adverse effects.
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– Barbara, Auckland
What’s great about this site is they have such a wide
selection of products. I wasn’t happy with my current ED product was using, so I was able to
try out a different kind and see if it was a better fit for my needs. Which it was!
– John, Wellington
I have been buying brand meds name for years and it never
crossed my mind how much cheaper the generic versions were. When I started browsing the
items I couldn’t believe the price difference! This is my go to shop right now.
– Eric, London
I wasn’t quite sure about buying my medication online as I
always bought it in store. I spoke to one of their support reps and they were really nice
and helped to explain how it works and made me feel much more comfortable with my order!
– Jenna, Leeds
has all the best generic items at crazy good prices. I order here every month.
– Pete, Birmingham
I got my package in just under a week with no problems at all!
Highly recommended.
– Jerry, Quebec
It was my first time ordering at
and it definitely won’t be my last! They had all the items I needed in one place and the
prices are the best I could find online.
– Phil, Ontario
I used to buy my meds online but I had to pay a good amount
for shipping. When I found this site I was thrilled to see they offer free discreet
shipping. I am saving significantly more money.
– Arthur, Vancouver
You cannot compare the prices found at
to anywhere else online. These are the best prices by far!
– Barbara, Auckland