Characteristic	Description
Name	Revatio
Active Ingredient	Sildenafil
Available Dosages	20 mg
Indications	Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Form	Tablet
Learn More About Revatio

Pharmacokinetics of Sildenafil 20 mg

Revatio, known for its active ingredient sildenafil, primarily targets pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Pharmacokinetics, a crucial consideration, involve absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Sildenafil 20 mg exhibits rapid absorption, reaching peak plasma levels within 30 to 120 minutes. Bioavailability stands at approximately 40%. Distribution across bodily systems allows efficient pulmonary vasodilation.

Sildenafil undergoes hepatic metabolism, predominantly via cytochrome P450 enzymes, notably CYP3A4. The primary metabolite, N-desmethylsildenafil, possesses 40% of sildenafil’s pharmacological activity. Elimination occurs primarily through fecal excretion, with renal clearance accounting for a minor fraction. Understanding these parameters aids in optimizing dosing regimens for PAH management.

Off-Label Uses for Sildenafil 20 mg

Although Revatio’s primary indication is PAH, its efficacy extends beyond this scope. Off-label, sildenafil 20 mg finds utility in managing altitude sickness, improving exercise capacity, and treating Raynaud’s phenomenon. Its vasodilatory effects enhance systemic blood flow, reducing symptoms associated with these conditions.

Research supports sildenafil’s potential in heart failure and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. However, such applications require medical supervision. The off-label use of pharmaceuticals, while promising, demands careful risk-benefit analysis. Clinicians must weigh potential advantages against adverse effects when prescribing outside approved indications.

Warnings & Precautions with Sildenafil 20 mg

While effective, sildenafil 20 mg necessitates caution. Individuals with cardiovascular conditions should consult healthcare providers before initiation. Its vasodilatory effects may precipitate hypotension, particularly in those on concomitant nitrate therapy. Patients with hepatic or renal impairment require adjusted dosing.

Precautions extend to visual and auditory disturbances, where abrupt cessation may be necessary. Priapism, a prolonged erection, demands immediate medical intervention. Caution also pertains to those with anatomical penile deformation or predisposition to priapism. Comprehensive patient evaluation mitigates risks, ensuring safe Revatio administration.

Missed Dose Instructions

Consistency is key in pharmacotherapy, yet missed doses occur. For sildenafil 20 mg, a missed dose should be taken as soon as possible. If proximity to the next dose is close, skip the missed dose. Doubling up to compensate is discouraged.

Maintaining regular dosing intervals enhances therapeutic efficacy. Patients should establish a routine to minimize missed doses. Timely administration aligns plasma levels, promoting optimal PAH management. Adherence, a cornerstone of treatment success, ensures maximal benefit from Revatio.

Potential Side Effects of Sildenafil 20 mg

Adverse effects, while generally mild, accompany sildenafil 20 mg use. Common side effects include headache, flushing, dyspepsia, and nasal congestion. These are usually transient, resolving as the body acclimatizes to therapy.

Severe reactions, though rare, warrant immediate attention. These include sudden visual or auditory loss, severe hypotension, or anaphylaxis. Patients should promptly report unusual symptoms. Informed healthcare providers facilitate timely intervention, mitigating adverse outcomes.

Revatio remains a potent agent in PAH treatment, with manageable side effect profiles. Patient education on potential adverse events empowers users, promoting safe and effective therapy.