Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil
(Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra), have revolutionized the
treatment of
erection problems (erectile dysfunction). But they can
cause life-threatening side effects for anyone who also takes nitroglycerin or
another medicine containing an organic nitrate. This combination can make your
blood pressure fall too low, possibly leading to a
stroke, a
heart attack, or death. Do not take nitrate-containing
medicines up to 24 hours after you take sildenafil (Viagra) or vardenafil
(Levitra), or up to 48 hours after you take tadalafil (Cialis).
Medicines that contain organic nitrates include:
- Nitroglycerin (such as Minitran, Nitro-Dur,
Nitrolingual Pumpspray, Nitrostat).
- Isosorbide mononitrate (such as
ISMO, Monoket).
- Isosorbide dinitrate (such as Dilatrate-SR,
Isordil).
- Sodium nitroprusside (such as Nitropress).
- Amyl nitrite
or amyl nitrate (sometimes called "poppers"), which are sometimes
abused.
Nitrates found in foods are not a danger when taking
phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors.
