Cenforce 200 mg is a prescription medication containing sildenafil citrate, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, helping to achieve and maintain an erection. Manufactured by Centurion Laboratories in India, Cenforce 200 mg is a high-strength generic version of sildenafil, intended for patients who do not respond adequately to lower doses.
- Active Ingredient: Sildenafil citrate (200 mg per tablet).
- Mechanism of Action: Inhibits PDE5 enzyme, enhancing nitric oxide effects and increasing cGMP levels, leading to smooth muscle relaxation and improved penile blood flow during sexual arousal.
- Not for Women or Children: Not approved for use in females or individuals under 18 years.
Benefits and Uses
- Primary Benefit: Provides potent treatment for erectile dysfunction, enabling stronger and longer-lasting erections, especially in cases where lower doses (e.g., 100 mg) are insufficient.
- Other Uses: Lower doses of sildenafil (e.g., 20 mg) are sometimes used for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), but 200 mg is not typically prescribed for this indication.
- Duration of Effect: Begins working within 30-60 minutes (may be delayed by fatty meals) and lasts approximately 4-6 hours.
- Additional Notes: Does not increase sexual desire or protect against sexually transmitted infections; requires sexual arousal to be effective.
Dosage and Administration
- Recommended Dosage: Take one 200 mg tablet orally as needed, about 30-60 minutes before sexual activity; do not exceed one dose per 24 hours. This dose is for patients who do not respond to 100 mg.
- How to Take: Swallow whole with water, preferably on an empty stomach for faster onset; avoid grapefruit juice and heavy, fatty meals.
- Adjustments: Lower doses (25-100 mg) are recommended for elderly patients, those with liver or kidney impairment, or when taking interacting medications.
- Available Strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg.
- Storage: Store at room temperature (15-30°C/59-86°F), away from moisture, heat, and direct light; keep out of reach of children.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Flushing (redness or warmth in the face)
- Indigestion or upset stomach
- Nasal congestion
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Visual disturbances (e.g., blurred vision or color tinge)
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention):
- Priapism (erection lasting more than 4 hours)
- Sudden vision or hearing loss
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Overdose Risks: Increased severity of side effects, including prolonged erection and cardiovascular complications; seek emergency care if overdose occurs.
Precautions and Safety Advice
- Contraindications: Do not use with nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin), guanylate cyclase stimulators, or recreational amyl nitrites ("poppers") due to risk of severe hypotension.
- Health Conditions: Use cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, low or high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or penile deformities.
- Drug Interactions:
- Increased risk of low blood pressure with alpha-blockers or antihypertensives.
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) increase sildenafil levels.
- Alcohol may increase side effects and reduce effectiveness.