Medications · FAQ
What should I do if sildenafil does not work or I want to stop?
Short answer
If sildenafil does not help, contact your prescriber instead of increasing the dose or adding another ED medicine. Results vary. They can review timing, food, sexual stimulation, and other health concerns. As-needed sildenafil for ED generally does not need tapering, but discuss ongoing symptoms or a treatment switch with your physician.
Sildenafil may not meet your needs every time you use it. Results vary. If it does not seem helpful, check that you followed the prescribed dose and timing. Sexual stimulation is still needed. A high-fat meal, heavy drinking, stress, or other health concerns may affect your experience.
Do not take an extra dose that day or add another ED medicine on your own. Contact your prescriber to discuss what happened. They may review your instructions, reassess the dose, or discuss another option. Persistent ED may also call for a check of blood pressure, diabetes risk, hormone concerns, or other possible causes.
As-needed sildenafil used for ED generally does not require a gradual dose reduction before stopping. However, stopping it does not address the underlying cause of ED. Tell your physician if symptoms continue or if you stopped because of side effects.
If you want to switch treatments, ask for clear instructions about when to start the new medicine. Do not overlap ED treatments unless directed. Sildenafil prescribed for high blood pressure in the lungs has different instructions; do not stop that treatment without medical advice.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.