What
is SCILLA Soft tabs (sildenafil citrate)? : SCILLA or Sidenafil
Citrate tablets are the first significant oral medication for the
treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED). The medicine was originally
developed as a cardiovascular medicine designed to improve blood flow in
the vessels of the heart. However, during initial studies the medication
was found to have a profound side effect. Individuals began to report a
remarkable difference in their ability to achieve and maintain an
erection. Further studies were completed and on March 27, 1998, the
medication was approved by the FDA for the treatment of erectile
dysfunction.
How it was (sildenafil citrate)
discovered? : Sildenafil Citrate was originally developed by
Pfizer® as a heart medication to improve blood flow by relaxing
arteries. During these studies, it was found to be effective in
increasing blood flow to the male genitals.
How Does Scilla (Sildenafil)®
(Sidenafil Citrate) Work? : The physiologic mechanism of
erection of the penis involves release of nitric oxide (NO) in corpus
icavernosum during sexual stimulation. NO then activates the enzyme
guanylate cyclase, which results in increased levels of cyclic guanosine
monophosphate (cGMP), producing smooth muscle relaxation in the corpus
cavernosum and allowing inflow of blood. Sildenafil has no direct
relaxant effect on isolated human corpus cavernosum, but enhances the
effect of nitric oxide (NO) by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5
(PDE5), which is responsible for degradation of cGMP in the corpus
cavernosum. When sexual stimulation causes local release of NO,
inhibition of PDE5 by sildenafil causes increased levels of cGMP in the
corpus cavernosum, resulting in smooth muscle relaxation and inflow of
blood to the corpus cavernosum. Sildenafil at recommended doses has no
effect in the absence of sexual stimulation.
Why
Does Sildenafil Citrate Soft Tabs Work So Fast? : Absorption of
Scilla (Sildenafil) tablets when taken in the traditional oral form is
subject to the following :-
- The ability of the medication to withstand the highly acidic
environment of the stomach.
- Gastric emptying time (which can be slowed by a fatty meal or the
consumption of alcohol resulting in the maximum plasma
concentrations occurring between one and four hours after
consumption).
- Time it takes to pass across the intestinal cell membranes
- "First Pass" metabolism by the liver, following the
absorption in the small intestine, medications are passed to the
liver via the portal vein. The liver subsequently changes the
chemical compositions of medications forming metabolites, or changed
chemical versions of the drug. As a part of this process a
percentage of the active form of a medication may be deactivated.
This is known as the "first pass" metabolism effect of the
liver.
The specifically "compounded" Sidenafil Citrate
sublingual lozenge bypasses the above outlined digestion processes
allowing for the medication to be absorbed in a more efficient manner
(the inside of the mouth is has dense supply of capillaries or small
blood vessels that allow medications to cross easily into the blood). In
fact, using the sublingual method of delivery the average dose of Scilla
(Sildenafil) can be cut in half. Therefore, if you usually take a Scilla
(Sildenafil) 50mg tablet you can split the 50mg Sildenafil Citrate
lozenge in half and only take 25mg of the medication for a more
pronounced effect.
Is The Same Dose Of Sidenafil Citrate
Required As The Pill Form? : No, the sublingual method of
delivery is more efficient; therefore, less of the medication is needed
to achieve the desired effects.
What Is The Proper Dosage Of Sidenafil
Citrate In The Sublingual Form? : Clinical trials have shown
that for most men half of the normal dose of Scilla
(Sildenafil)(sidenafil citrate) is sufficient to achieve the same
positive effects as Scilla (Sildenafil) (sidenafil citrate). Therefore,
most individuals can take half of the scored 50mg Sidenafil Citrate
lozenge or a 25mg dose. Men should not consume more than one 50mg
lozenge during any given 24 hour period.
How Will My Sidenafil Citrate Lozenges Be Shipped? : All
orders are shipped in a discreet package with no hint of the contents.
How Long Before Intended Intercourse Should The Sidenafil
Citrate Lozenge Be Used? : The Sidenafil Citrate Lozenges exert
their action in a short period of time. Most men report a positive
effect with 15 minute of the lozenge dissolving under the tongue.
Can The Sidenafil Citrate Lozenge Be Swallowed? :
The unique compounding of the Sidenafil Citrate lozenge were developed
to be taken sublingually. Simply place the lozenge under the tongue for
rapid absorption. Swallowing the lozenge will be of no benefit. In fact,
the active ingredients will be degraded as outline above.
How Long Can I Expect My Erection To
Last?Once an individual climaxes his erection will diminish per
the norm or the individual may maintain the erection for a few more
minutes. However, most men report a decrease in the refractory period
(the time between climax and the next erection).
Is Age A Factor In The Effectiveness Of
Sildenafil Citrate? : Actually, age does not seem to be a
significant factor concerning the effectiveness of Sildenafil Citrate.
In fact. many men experience erections that are as firm as they were
when they in there early twenties. The erections tend to last longer and
require less stimulation to stay erect secondary to the increased blood
flow to the region.
What Clinical Studies Have Been Done? :
Scilla (Sildenafil)® (sidenafil citrate) was administered
to more than 3000 patients (age 19-87 years) with (ED) of various
etiologies (organic, psychogenic or mixed) with a mean duration of 5
years. Scilla (Sildenafil)® (sidenafil citrate) demonstrated
statistically significant improvement as compared to a placebo in all
studies. In one particular study concerning the frequency of successful
penetration during sexual activity and maintaining erection after
penetration, 83% of these patients reported an improved erection on
Scilla (Sildenafil)® (sidenafil citrate) verses 12% on a placebo
medication.
What Happens If There Is No Sexual Stimulation Following The
Sublingual Use Of The Sidenafil Citrate Lozenges? : Sildenafil
Citrate is naturally eliminated from your body in a few hours.
What Are The Side Effects Of
Sidenafil Citrate Lozenges? : The side effects are as one might
expect the same as those reported with the Scilla (Sildenafil)
(sidenafil citrate) tablets. Although side effects are rare and usually
short short lived, some patients have reported the following side
effects :
- Congestion
- Diarrhea
- Facial Flushing
- Headaches
- Urinary Tract Infections
- Visual Changes (mild and temporary changes in blue/green colors
or increased sensitivity to light)
What Are Precautions/Warnings
Concerning The Use Of Sublingual Sidenafil Citrate Lozenges? : Men
who are taking medicines that contain nitrates (Nitroglycerin) of any
kind must never use Sidenafil Citrate. Patients should not take
Sidenafil Citrate even if you only take nitroglycerin medication
occasionally. (Please see list of nitrates) There is also a potential
for cardiac risk during sexual activity in patients with preexisting
cardiovascular disease. Therefore, Sidenafil Citrate should not be used
in men where sexual activity is inadvisable because of their underlying
cardiovascular status. Several medications are known to interact with
Sidenafil Citrate Therefore; one should inform their physician
concerning all medications they are taking, including those medications
acquired by a prescription as well as over the counter medicines. The
use of Sidenafil Citrate offers no protection against sexually
transmitted diseases, including HIV. Patients should continue to use
protective measures necessary to guard against these diseases. In case
of an overdose, call your physician immediately.
Can I Use Sidenafil Citrate Lozenges With Other Medications? :
Yes, it is generally safe to use Sidenafil Citrate while on
other medications. However some medicines may potentiate the effects of
Sidenafil Citrate. Individuals should always consult with their
healthcare provider prior to taking any medication. Note: Sidenafil
Citrate does have one absolute contraindication; individuals who are
taking medication-containing nitrate (even intermittently) should not
take Sidenafil Citrate.
Why Is Sidenafil Citrate
Lozenges Absolutely Contraindicated In Individuals Who Are Currently
Taking Medications Containing Nitrates? : Sidenafil Citrate
lhas been shown to potentate the hypotensive effects of nitrates to life
threatening levels. Therefore, individuals who are currently using
nitrates in any form even intermittently should not take Sidenafil
Citrate. Nitrates are available in many medications; sprays, ointments,
skin patches, pastes and tablets dissolved in the mouth. Nitrates are
also found in illicit drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite "Poppers".
If you are unsure if you are currently taking nitrates please value your
health and consult with your local physician or pharmacist.
Can I Get Sidenafil Citrate Lozenges Over
The Counter? :No, Sidenafil Citrate lozenges should only be
taken by prescription from a licensed physician. FDA regulations do not
permit Sidenafil Citrate lozenges to be taken without prescription. For
a consultation for a Sidenafil Citrate lozenge prescription (click
here). A Licensed Physician will review your medical history and patient
profile. If approved for a Sidenafil Citrate lozenge prescription, we
will have your order shipped discretely to your home or office in 1-2
business days.
For What Types Of ED Is Sidenafil Citrate Proving To Be
Especially Effective? : Sidenafil Citrate is showing optimal
results in individuals who experience Erectile Dysfunction secondary to
high levels of anxiety (performance anxiety) and individuals with mild
Erectile Dysfunction.
Is Sidenafil Citrate Less Effective In
Treating Erectile Dysfunction That Is Secondary To Certain Underlying
Medical Conditions? : This question is somewhat difficult to
answer right now. More data is expected in the near future. Some initial
data suggests that men, who have undergone radical prostatectomy
(surgical removal of their prostate), using nerve-sparing procedures,
are not achieving the same positive results with Sidenafil Citrate.
Can Sidenfal Citrate Lozenges Be
Combined With Other Treatments For Erectile Dysfunction? : The
use of such combined treatments is not recommended, since no clinical
studies have been done to access Sidenafil Citrate safety and
effectiveness.
Is There A Potential For Sidenafil Citrate
To Be Used In The Treatment Of Ed In Women? : There are
currently several medical research centers that are studying whether
Sidenafil Citrate is a viable oral therapy for woman with sexual
dysfunction. The problem is, secondary to anatomy, we know less
concerning female sexual dysfunction than male sexual dysfunction.
Historically, research has focused on male sexual dysfunction. Until we
have a better understanding of the physiological processes causing
erectile dysfunction in women are ability to treat the condition is
limited. Although some physicians are prescribing Sidenafil Citrate to
their female patients, it is important to note, the FDA has not approved
the medication for the treatment of sexual dysfunction in women.
