What is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is the main ingredient in the popular erectile dysfunction drug Viagra. This ingredient is active in treating impotence and difficulty maintaining an erection for men. Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor. It helps increase the blood flow in the body by easing blood vessels in the lungs. This allows for improved blood flow. Even though blood flow is increased, sexual stimulation is still required to develop an erection while taking sildenafil. Sildenafil does not cure erectile dysfunction, but instead temporarily makes it easier to develop an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
Sildenafil and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
In addition to helping with erectile dysfunction, sildenafil also provides relief for pulmonary arterial hypertension. High blood pressure in the vessels leading to our lungs may cause problems such as shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. By relaxing these vessels and increasing blood flow, patients may experience relief from these symptoms and an improved ability to participate in physical activities.
What is Compounding?
Compounding is a science-based approach that allows clients to customize their medication in a variety of ways. Traditional prescriptions have a set number of dosage sizes and forms. They are designed for a large population of people and therefore will have a limited number of options. Compounded medication, however, is designed for the individual client. This allows doctors to work with their patients and pharmacists to create a prescription specifically for them. Ways to customize medications include:
- Add or remove ingredients
- Choose dosage form (troche, capsule, cream, lollipop, etc.)
- Unique dosage sizes
- Multi-medications
Compounding ED Treatments
ClearSpring Pharmacy compounds sildenafil into troches for patients with ED. Troches are similar in consistency and size to hard candy. While Viagra is swallowed, sildenafil troches are meant to dissolve in the mouth. This allows for greater absorption of the drug through the capillaries located under our tongue and cheeks. Because the troche dissolves in the mouth, sildenafil is able to work more effectively since it is avoiding the stomach and the digestive system. The most common dosage sizes are 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. However, troches can be made into any dosage size necessary for the individual. This allows for a smoother transition when trying to increase or decrease the dosage.
Efficacy of Sildenafil Troche
Sildenafil troches are functionally the same when compared to Viagra. This is because the active ingredient (sildenafil) is present in both products. The same benefits in terms of erectile dysfunction can be expected when using a sildenafil troche.
Do I Need a Prescription for Sildenafil?
Yes. A prescription is required when filling for sildenafil. If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, you may consult with your physician, and they will be able to provide a prescription. You can also contact us and we can put you in contact with a reputable physician.
Comparing Sildenafil Troches to Viagra
As mentioned, sildenafil troches are an alternative to Viagra that will provide the same effect. However, there are a few benefits worth noting. Troches are often preferred because they provide a few more benefits.
The customization allows patients to get the exact dosage size they need and move up or down in smaller increments. Troches also dissolve in the mouth while Viagra needs to be swallowed. This is preferential for people who may struggle or dislike swallowing pills.
Troches also take effect faster since they dissolve in the mouth. This provides a quicker route to our bloodstream rather than needing to be processed through our digestive system.
Sildenafil troches are often more affordable than Viagra. While it is just as effective, patients may be able to find prices that are better than Viagra.
Rachel Burns, PharmD
Lead Pharmacist, ClearSpring Pharmacy
