Treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension with Sildenafil

Along with treating ED, Sildenafil it can also be taken to treat (PAH) pulmonary arterial hypertension. Viagra has an active ingredient Sildenafil which is also found in another drug named Revatio.


Viagra (Sildenafil) is one of the most popular drugs used by men globally. It is an approved drug to treat impotence or erectile dysfunction (ED). Along with treating ED, Sildenafil it can also be taken to treat (PAH) pulmonary arterial hypertension. Viagra has an active ingredient Sildenafil which is also found in another drug named Revatio.

Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor. This substance, PDE5, is produced and found in many parts of the body including the lungs. The primary function of PDE5 is to break down a substance known as guanosine monophosphate (GMP) which widens and relaxes the blood vessels.

When a person takes Sildenafil, PDE5 activity is reduced. As the PDE5 is inhibited, more cyclic GMP is present in the lungs in the arteries carrying the blood. As the vessels are relaxed and widened, they release the pressure. The pulmonary hypertension on the heart is reduced, thus making it function better.

One should not take this drug if they are allergic to Sildenafil. Inform  a noted healthcare provider in following cases about:

•    Heart disease
•    Stroke
•    Coronary artery disease
•    Ulcers in stomach
•    Disease relating to kidney or liver

One  should be cautious in case of these outcomes in the clinical trials after taking Sildenafil:

•    Hypotension
•    Epistaxis
•    (PVOD) Pulmonary Vascular Occlusive Disease
•    Hearing Loss
•    Loss of Vision
•    Priapism

Side effects associated with taking this drug

Although Sildenafil is tolerated well, it may have certain side effects such as

•    Numbness
•    Fluid retention
•    Nosebleeds
•    Pain in the arms or legs
•    Headache
•    Upset stomach
•    Fever
•    Heartburn
•    Flushing of the skin
•    Nausea and diarrhea
•    Worsening shortness of breath
•    Nasal congestion
•    Temporary muscle aches
•    Difficulty sleeping

Sildenafil may cause a drop in the blood pressure. Patients suffering from low blood pressure should consult  able doctors before taking this drug. People taking alpha blockers, nitric acid or nitrates should avoid taking it along with Sildenafil as it can lead to considerable drop in blood pressure leading to loss of consciousness or it can even lead to death in some cases.

Sildenafil may be used in treating both ED and PAH. Although, it should be taken only if prescribed by the doctor. Always speak to a doctor before taking this drug about your medical conditions and to check if this drug is suitable for you.

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