Week 14 Flashcards
Mr C is a 60 year old male you are caring for on a ward following a myocardial infarction. While giving his medications, he ask what you know about silendafil (viagra) as he feels that he would like his doctor to prescribe it for him
Questions and answers to follow
What is the action of Silendafil?
Use to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension, acts by inhibiting cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) that promotes degradation of cGMP which regulates blood flow to the penis
What are the common side effects of Silendafil?
Headaches and heartburn, flushed skin, contraindicated in those who have cardiovascular disease, indigestion, nasal congestion, impaired vision.
Rare but serious side effects prolonged erections which can lead to damage to the penis, and sudden-onset hearing loss, contraindicated in people who take nitrates (nitroglycerin) as this may result in severe or fatal drop in blood pressure
Why might Mr C be advised not to take silendafil?
Because it could precipitate another MI, create new arrhythmias, stroke, low to severe BP, in changes in intraocular pressure where vision my become impaired
