How to use
Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) is taken orally as needed between four hours and half an hour before sexual activity (about one hour before is most effective). Take only as directed, usually once daily as needed. Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) only helps men achieve an erection if sexual stimulation occurs at the same time. 

Overdose
Potential symptoms of a Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) overdose include:

• Severe dizziness
• Fainting
• Prolonged or painful erection (lasts for more than 4 hours)

If you think you have taken too much of this medication, contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services immediately.

Missed dose
If you missed a dose of Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate), take it as soon as you remember.  If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dosage, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. Do not attempt to double up on this medication to make up for a missed dose.

Notes
Do not share Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) with others, since they may have a condition that is not effectively treated by this medication.

Using Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) does not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases (e.g. HIV, Hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis). To adequately protect yourself against STIs, you should use a barrier method, such as a condom and spermicide.

Storage
Store Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) and away from light and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Important note
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.

* Illustrations are for graphic purposes only and the ordered medication may differ in appearance.

Precautions

Before using Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate), tell your doctor your medical history, including:

• Allergies (especially drug allergies)
• Penis conditions such as fibrosis or scarring (e.g. Peyronie's disease)
• History of painful or prolonged erections (priapism)
• Sickle cell anemia
• Blood system cancers (such as leukemia or myeloma)
• Eye problems (retina diseases)
• Kidney or liver diseases
• Bleeding disorders
• Active stomach ulcers
• Heart diseases
• Stroke
• Very high or low blood pressure

If you are currently suffering or ever have suffered from any of the above conditions, you may not be able to take Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) or you may need a dosage adjustment.

Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) may cause dizziness, so you are advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery while taking this medication until you are sure you can perform these activities safely. To avoid dizziness when rising up from a seated lying position, get up slowly.

Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) is not intended for use by women or children. Caution is advised when this medication is used by an elderly person, as someone from this age group is likely to be more sensitive to its side effects.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you are also using, especially of:

• Nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate
• Nitroprusside (any nitric oxide donor medicines)
• Cimetidine
• Erythromycin
• Azole antifungals (e.g. itraconazole, ketoconazole)
• Mibefradil
• Rifamycins (e.g. rifampin)
• High blood pressure medication
• Certain HIV protease inhibitors (such as saquinavir, ritonavir, amprenavir)
• Delavirdine

This is only a partial list and other medication may interact with Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate). Inform your doctor of all other prescription and non-prescription medication you are currently using, including dietary supplements, herbal pills, vitamins, minerals and medication prescribed by other doctors. Do not start or stop taking any medication without your doctor's approval.

The following common side effects of Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) may occur: 

• Headache
• Flushing
• Stomach upsets
• Nasal stuffiness
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness

If any of the above effects persist or worsen, you should notify your doctor as soon as possible.

Inform your doctor straightaway if you experience any of the following unlikely but serious side effects:

• Painful or other urination problems
• Vision problems
• Skin rash

Also seek prompt medical attention of you encounter any of these very unlikely but very serious side effects:

• Chest pain
• Fainting
• Swelling of the ankle or foot

If you experience a painful or prolonged erection (that lasts longer than 4 hours), stop using Caverta (Sildenafil Citrate) straightaway and seek immediate medical attention.

This is only a partial list. Inform your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any side effects other than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.