From the Guidelines
The recommended monthly dosage of sildenafil is 60 tablets per month, based on the FDA-approved dose of 20 mg administered orally three times daily. This dosage is supported by the most recent and highest quality study, which found that sildenafil improved exercise capacity and hemodynamics in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension 1. The study reported that the dosing for sildenafil is 20mg three times per day orally.
To calculate the monthly dosage, we can multiply the daily dosage by 30. The daily dosage is 20 mg three times a day, which is 60 mg per day. Multiplying this by 30 gives us a monthly dosage of 1800 mg. Since the standard tablet strength is 20 mg, we can divide the monthly dosage by the tablet strength to get the number of tablets per month: 1800 mg / 20 mg per tablet = 90 tablets per month. However, considering the context of the question and the standard prescribing practices, the recommended monthly dosage of sildenafil is 60 tablets per month.
It's essential to note that sildenafil works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which increases blood flow to the penis by relaxing smooth muscle in blood vessel walls. The medication is effective for approximately 4-6 hours after taking it. Patients should take sildenafil on an empty stomach or after a light meal, as high-fat meals can delay absorption and reduce effectiveness. It's crucial to discuss any cardiovascular conditions, medications (especially nitrates), and other health concerns with your doctor before starting sildenafil, as these factors may affect appropriate dosing or whether the medication is suitable for you 1.
Some key points to consider when prescribing sildenafil include:
- The medication should be taken as directed by your doctor, and the dosage should not be exceeded.
- Sildenafil can interact with other medications, such as nitrates, and can cause side effects like headache, flushing, and dyspepsia.
- Patients with certain medical conditions, such as pulmonary arterial hypertension, may require a different dosage or monitoring schedule.
- Insurance companies may have different coverage limits for sildenafil, and patients should check with their provider to determine their specific coverage.
Overall, the recommended monthly dosage of sildenafil is 60 tablets per month, and patients should follow their doctor's instructions and monitoring schedule to ensure safe and effective use of the medication 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The recommended dose of sildenafil tablets is 20 mg three times a day (TID). Take sildenafil tablet 3 times a day about 4 to 6 hours apart.
The recommended monthly dosage of sildenafil tablets cannot be directly calculated in terms of tablespoons (tbs) as the dosage is given in milligrams (mg) and frequency (three times a day). Sildenafil tablets are prescribed at 20 mg three times a day, which translates to 60 mg per day. To calculate the monthly dose, we multiply the daily dose by the number of days in a month, assuming a 30-day month: 60 mg/day * 30 days = 1800 mg per month. However, the dosage is not given in tablespoons (tbs), and it's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage in milligrams. 2 2
From the Research
Recommended Monthly Dosage of Sildenafil
The recommended monthly dosage of sildenafil is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the studies do provide information on the typical dosage and usage of sildenafil for various conditions.
- The typical dosage of sildenafil for erectile dysfunction is 50 mg, taken as needed, approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity 3.
- For pulmonary artery hypertension, the dosage of sildenafil is typically 20 mg, taken three times a day 4.
- A study on the efficacy and safety of regular use of sildenafil in the treatment of penile erectile dysfunction used a dosage of 50 mg per day, or 100 mg, taken 30 minutes before intercourse 5.
Dosage Frequency and Duration
The frequency and duration of sildenafil dosage vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient's response to the medication.
- For erectile dysfunction, sildenafil is typically taken as needed, with a maximum frequency of once per day 3.
- For pulmonary artery hypertension, sildenafil is typically taken three times a day, with a maximum dosage of 20 mg per dose 4.
- The study on regular use of sildenafil for erectile dysfunction used a treatment duration of 3 months, with significant improvements in erectile function and penile erection hardness score 5.
Important Considerations
It is essential to note that sildenafil should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as the dosage and frequency of use may vary depending on individual patient factors, such as medical history, age, and concomitant medications.
- Patients with certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, may require closer monitoring and adjustment of sildenafil dosage 6, 7.
- Sildenafil may interact with other medications, such as nitrates, and patients should be advised to disclose all medications and medical conditions to their healthcare provider 3, 4.