Vigrande

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Vigrande

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredient Sildenafil Citrate
Form Film-coated tablet
Pharmacological Class Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor
Common Use Supporting the vascular process required for penile erection
Origin Synthetic compound

What is Vigrande? Identity and Pharmacological Class

Vigrande is a prescription-only synthetic medication defined by the active ingredient Sildenafil Citrate, which belongs to the pharmacological class of Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. This classification indicates that the drug's action is fundamentally concerned with affecting smooth muscle tone within blood vessels. The active ingredient Sildenafil works by inhibiting a specific enzyme (PDE5), which is a mechanism in localized blood flow regulation. This targeted action characterizes the pharmacological profile of the medication.

As a synthetic compound, Sildenafil is manufactured through chemical synthesis, which ensures a standardized, consistent composition across all batches. Vigrande is characterized as a branded generic form of Sildenafil, often specifically marketed toward adult males, offering an alternative formulation option to patients requiring this class of medication.


Vigrande: Composition, Form, and General Purpose

The medicine is a single-ingredient product supplied as a film-coated tablet intended for oral administration. The composition includes Sildenafil Citrate alongside pharmaceutical excipients necessary for forming the solid dosage unit and facilitating absorption through the digestive tract. The general purpose of a PDE5 inhibitor is to provide vascular support.

This effect is achieved through the targeted inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme, which sustains the levels of a naturally occurring signaling molecule called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). The sustained presence of cGMP prompts localized smooth muscle relaxation, which ultimately serves to enhance blood flow to the required tissue, facilitating the maintenance of a penile erection. The drug relies on this mechanism to provide its intended general benefit.

Regulatory References

  1. Sildenafil MeSH Descriptor Data
  2. Sildenafil: MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Vigrande?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Vigrande (sildenafil) is based on data from regulatory authorities and clinical studies, classifying adverse reactions by frequency and organ system. This information is intended to inform patients of the risks documented in official labeling.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Classification Examples of Documented Side Effects
Very Common (ge 1/10) Headache
Common (ge 1/100 to <1/10) Flushing, Dizziness, Dyspepsia, Nasal Congestion, Visual Color Distortions (e.g., blue tinge)
Rare (<1/1,000) Seizure, Priapism, Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION), Sudden Hearing Loss

Serious and Clinically Significant Reactions

Serious adverse reactions that require immediate medical attention include Priapism (an erection lasting longer than four hours) and sudden loss of vision (potentially NAION) or sudden decrease or loss of hearing. Rare cardiovascular events (such as stroke or myocardial infarction) have been reported post-marketing. Side effects like hypotension and prolonged erection are more common at higher exposures, and hypotensive effects are typically most notable one to two hours after administration.

Safety Restrictions and Contraindications

Vigrande is contraindicated for use in patients taking any form of organic nitrates or guanylate cyclase stimulators (like riociguat) due to the risk of severe, life-threatening drops in blood pressure. Caution is required in patients with conditions predisposing to Priapism (e.g., sickle cell anemia) or anatomical deformation of the penis. Specific consideration and potential dose adjustment may be necessary for patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Manifestations and Clinical Signs

Overdose of Vigrande (Sildenafil Citrate) is officially documented to result in an increased incidence and severity of adverse reactions observed at typical doses. Manifestations of overexposure, derived from regulatory prescribing information, include significant decreased blood pressure (hypotension) and the occurrence of syncope (fainting). An overdose may also result in a prolonged erection. These clinical signs reflect the drug’s vascular effects and documented presentation in cases of elevated exposure.

When Immediate Medical Help is Required

Regulatory labeling outlines specific, urgent triggers for seeking emergency care:

  • Seek emergency treatment if a prolonged erection persists for longer than 4 hours (risk of priapism).
  • Seek immediate medical attention upon the sudden occurrence of loss of vision in one or both eyes.
  • Seek prompt medical attention in the event of a sudden decrease or loss of hearing.

Management and Clearance

Management of overdose requires symptomatic and supportive treatment. Official sources explicitly state that no specific antidote is known for Sildenafil. Due to the high plasma protein binding of the active ingredient, renal dialysis is not expected to accelerate clearance. Caution is documented for patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment, as reduced drug clearance may increase the duration and risk of severe outcomes.

Therapeutic Uses of Vigrande

What Vigrande Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

This medication is commonly used across two primary therapeutic domains: addressing symptoms related to erectile function and managing heightened physiological stress associated with pulmonary hypertension. It is relevant for conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, including Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH).

Support and Symptom Management

In the context of ED, the medicine is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, assisting men with various forms of the condition. It contributes to easing the overall symptom load and supports general well-being during symptomatic periods. In managing PAH, the medication is relevant for easing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort, such as persistent shortness of breath and diminished capacity for physical activity. This supportive therapeutic intervention assists with maintaining functional stability.

“It is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes and provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden.”


Quick Fact: Relief for Vascular Symptoms
Primary Symptom Domains Impaired erection (ED) and chronic physical limitation (PAH)
Usage Contexts Applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns (ED) and chronic conditions presenting with systemic discomfort (PAH).
Patient Benefit Focus Assists with maintaining functional stability and supports general well-being.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus Drug Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Vigrande is intended for use in adult males only for the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED). Regulatory documents establish clear eligibility rules, including absolute prohibitions and necessary restrictions based on age and specific health conditions.

Populations for Whom Use is Contraindicated

Use of Vigrande is strictly prohibited (contraindicated) for patients who have:

  • Concomitant use of organic nitrates in any form (e.g., nitroglycerin) or riociguat.
  • Known hypersensitivity to sildenafil or any component of the tablet.
  • A history of Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischaemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION) or certain hereditary degenerative retinal disorders.
  • Specific severe cardiovascular conditions, such as recent stroke or myocardial infarction (within six months), or conditions where sexual activity is inadvisable.
  • Severe health markers, including severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) or severe resting hypotension (blood pressure <90/50 mmHg).

Age-Related and Condition-Based Restrictions

Classification Status / Context Population Constraint
Not Indicated Use is not established or approved Individuals under 18 years of age or women
Restricted Use Special consideration required due to reduced clearance Older adults (ge 65 years) and patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A or B)

Eligibility-related caution is also mandated for patients with anatomical deformation of the penis (e.g., Peyronie's disease) and conditions that predispose to priapism (e.g., sickle cell anemia).

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Interaction Scope

The interaction profile for Vigrande (Sildenafil Citrate) is defined by pharmacodynamic synergy and pharmacokinetic alterations primarily involving the Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolic enzyme. The official regulatory profile classifies several combinations as absolute Contraindications due to the risk of severe, symptomatic hypotension. These include all forms of organic nitrates and the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator riociguat.

Exposure to Sildenafil is significantly altered by co-administered drugs that interact with CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of this enzyme, such as ritonavir and ketoconazole, increase Sildenafil plasma concentrations due to reduced clearance. Conversely, CYP3A4 inducers like bosentan and the herbal product St. John's Wort decrease Sildenafil exposure.

Interaction-Related Constraints

Interaction Type Official Regulatory Constraint
Nitrates & Riociguat Strictly Contraindicated (Prohibited co-administration).
Ritonavir The Sildenafil dose must not exceed 25 mg within a 48-hour period to manage increased exposure.
Alpha-Blockers Co-administration may lead to symptomatic hypotension; an initial dose of 25 mg is advised by regulators.
Grapefruit Juice May increase plasma concentrations due to official documentation of CYP3A4 inhibition in the gut wall.

These constraints are based on documented shifts in drug levels and additive vasodilatory responses, as stated in authoritative government labels. Reduced drug clearance in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment may also heighten the effects of co-administered CYP inhibitors.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action involves the highly selective, competitive inhibition of the enzyme Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). The active ingredient, Sildenafil Citrate, binds to the enzyme's active site, preventing the hydrolysis (breakdown) of the cellular messenger cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP). This targeted molecular action preserves the concentration of cGMP within the smooth muscle cells of the vascular tissue. The inhibition modifies the molecular sequence by sustaining the activity of the Nitric Oxide (NO)-cGMP signaling cascade. When a physiological stimulus triggers the release of NO, the mechanism ensures the resulting cGMP signal is maintained at an elevated level. This augmented signal promotes the relaxation of arterial smooth muscle cells. The physiological consequence is an increase in localized arterial blood flow and subsequent tissue engorgement. The mechanism influences the pathway's feedback regulation but requires a prior initiating signal. Its functional effect is entirely constrained and dependent on the presence of sufficient Nitric Oxide release, which is required for cGMP synthesis.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Vigrande: Official Administration Guidelines

Vigrande contains Sildenafil Citrate, and its official administration instructions differ significantly depending on the condition being addressed: on-demand use for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) or continuous use for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH).

Administration Scope

Category Instruction Details (Label-Based)
Route of Administration The primary route is Oral (film-coated tablets or suspension). An Intravenous (IV) form is available for temporary use in PAH when the oral route is not feasible.
Dosing Schedule For ED (On-Demand): The usual starting dose is 50 mg, taken as needed. The dose may range from 25 mg to a maximum of 100 mg. For PAH (Fixed Schedule): The recommended dose is 20 mg taken three times a day, which may be adjusted up to 80 mg three times a day.
Frequency and Timing ED Use: Taken as needed, not more than once per day. It should be taken approximately one hour before activity, though a window of 30 minutes to 4 hours is specified. PAH Use: Taken on a fixed schedule, three times a day, with doses spaced 4 to 6 hours apart.
Contextual Intake Can be taken with or without food. Taking the tablet with a high-fat meal may lead to a delayed onset of activity. Powder for oral suspension must be reconstituted with water and shaken well before each use.
Population Adjustments A lower starting dose of 25 mg for ED use should be considered for individuals over age 65 or those with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) or hepatic impairment.
Missed Dose Rule For the fixed PAH schedule, if a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. Patients must not double the dose to compensate for the forgotten dose.

Connection to the Overall Use Protocol

These official instructions establish two distinct patterns of use: a time-sensitive, intermittent protocol for one indication, and a continuous, fixed-schedule protocol for maintenance therapy in the other. The differing dose ranges, administration frequency, and required dose adjustments for specific patient populations are key components of the documented standardized usage of the medicine.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Vigrande

Evidence for Use in Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

The evidence base for Vigrande’s active ingredient in the research context of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) comes primarily from numerous large-scale, short-term randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs). This type of study design was used in research exploring how functional symptoms change over defined time intervals. The outcomes examined in these trials focused on standardized tools, such as the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) domain scores, and tracked patient-reported outcomes related to the ability to engage in sexual activity.

Research was conducted on a broad group of adult men, and specific studies evaluated the research setting in populations where the condition was associated with comorbidities, including diabetes mellitus. Findings describe patterns observed in these studies where changes in the standardized IIEF scores and measurements of attempts at sexual activity were recorded during the study period compared to the placebo group.

Evidence for Use in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)

Research exploring the use of this medicine in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) also relies on Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials. These studies focused on outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, specifically assessing functional capacity. The main functional measure used was the 6-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD), and studies also monitored the time elapsed before the occurrence of a predefined change in clinical status.

In adult populations, research describes measurements recorded in the 6MWD functional test over the short term. Studies monitoring patient status over time also observed patterns related to the interval before a predefined change in clinical status was recorded in the research population. However, when examining all-cause mortality as an outcome, systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest that the evidence is limited, and findings do not confirm a change in the risk of death in adult PAH patients.

What is Still Uncertain in the Research Record

The scientific record highlights several areas where the evidence remains limited or uncertain. A primary gap is the lack of evidence to establish the effect on all-cause mortality in the adult PAH population. Furthermore, patients taking nitrate medications were excluded from all efficacy trials, meaning there is no research data to characterize outcomes in this specific context.

The research data available for the paediatric PAH population is accompanied by regulatory review that described patterns observed in studies, which has resulted in specific regulatory guidance for use in this group.

Key Studies & References Sildenafil in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: An Overview of the Clinical Evidence

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Vigrande (FAQ)

Q: What is the main reason Vigrande is prescribed?

The active ingredient in Vigrande is prescribed for two primary indications based on official labeling: to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and to manage Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). Regulatory documents indicate that the prescribed use and dosing schedule are significantly different between these two indications.

Q: How quickly can someone expect Vigrande to start working?

For its use in Erectile Dysfunction, the official product information describes a window of time for administration ranging from 30 minutes to 4 hours before activity. Regulatory labeling states that the effect may often be expected to begin within about one hour of taking the dose.

Q: Can Vigrande be taken by people with high blood pressure?

Regulatory documents advise that caution is required if an individual has existing heart problems or is taking other medications that can also lower blood pressure. It is strictly contraindicated for patients with very low resting blood pressure (severe hypotension). Suitability for use in the presence of high blood pressure is a medical determination based on an individual's complete health profile.

Q: Are there official reports about the long-term use of Vigrande?

Official reports from regulatory sources have reviewed the long-term use of the active ingredient. These reviews indicate that the medicine is well-tolerated in a long-term context and has not been associated with new lasting harmful effects over many months or years.

Q: Is Vigrande known to interact with herbal supplements?

Official product information specifically notes an interaction with the herbal product St. John's Wort. Regulatory documents describe the importance of disclosing all herbal remedies and supplements to a healthcare provider, as these products are not tested for drug interactions in the same standardized way as prescription medicines.

Q: Are there specific patient groups that studies on Vigrande have not included?

Studies supporting the effectiveness of Vigrande specifically excluded certain patient groups for safety reasons. Regulatory documentation confirms that patients who were taking any form of organic nitrate medication were excluded from all efficacy clinical trials.

Q: How soon after taking Vigrande can other medications be taken?

Regulatory documentation contains specific timing restrictions for certain co-administered drugs. For instance, the dose must not exceed 25 mg within a 48-hour period when the active ingredient is combined with the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor ritonavir. Timing requirements for other medications are dependent on their specific interaction profile.

Q: Is Vigrande a common name or a brand name for a medication?

Official information characterizes Vigrande as a branded generic form of Sildenafil Citrate. This means it contains the same active medicinal ingredient found in the original innovator product.

Q: What is the typical length of time Vigrande stays in the system?

The length of time the medication stays in the system is defined by its elimination half-life. Official pharmacological documents indicate that this is approximately 3 to 4 hours, which is the time it takes for the concentration of the medicine in the body to be reduced by half.

Q: Are there any known interactions between Vigrande and blood thinners?

Regulatory documents advise caution when the active ingredient is combined with oral vitamin K antagonists (a specific type of blood thinner). Studies of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension noted that bleeding events, such as nosebleeds, were reported in these co-administered populations.

Q: Is there a generic version of Vigrande available?

The active ingredient, Sildenafil Citrate, is widely available from multiple manufacturers in generic versions after the expiration of the original product’s patents. Vigrande itself is classified as a branded generic, meaning it is an alternative version of the medicine.

Q: Do regulatory agencies classify Vigrande as a controlled substance?

According to official decisions from regulatory agencies, the active ingredient Sildenafil is not categorized as a controlled substance.

Q: Does Vigrande interact with common pain relievers like ibuprofen?

Specific interactions between the active ingredient and common pain relievers like ibuprofen are not explicitly detailed in the major regulatory interaction tables. However, regulatory materials generally indicate that no significant drug interactions have been reported with non-aspirin antiplatelet agents.

Q: Is fatigue or tiredness listed as a common side effect of Vigrande?

Fatigue or tiredness are not usually listed among the very common or common side effects in the official product information. However, regulatory reviews have noted related effects, such as somnolence (drowsiness) or a general feeling of weakness, as uncommon side effects.

Q: Does Vigrande have any known interaction with alcohol?

Official information describes that the active ingredient Sildenafil has properties that may lower blood pressure. Because alcohol has a similar effect, combining the two may increase the potential for symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.

Q: Are there any reported interactions between Vigrande and common cold medicines?

Specific interactions with all common cold medicines are not detailed in regulatory documents. Regulatory information indicates that caution is generally required when taking any drug that can influence blood pressure, such as certain decongestants. This is due to the potential for an additive hypotensive (blood pressure lowering) effect.

Q: Is the onset of action different depending on the strength of Vigrande used?

Pharmacokinetic studies show that the time required to reach the maximum concentration of the medication in the blood (Tmax) is generally consistent. However, the total amount of medicine in the blood, known as the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), does increase proportionally with the dose administered.

Q: Are muscle aches a reported side effect of Vigrande?

Yes, muscle aches (myalgia) and back pain are side effects documented in official reports. Regulatory information notes that these effects are particularly reported in patients who are using the medication for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension.

Q: What warnings exist regarding driving or operating machinery while using Vigrande?

Official warnings from regulatory agencies exist regarding the risk of certain side effects that could affect motor skills. Because a small percentage of users may experience dizziness or altered vision, regulatory documents state that users should be aware of how the medicine affects them before driving or operating machinery.

Q: Does research indicate any risk of dependence with Vigrande?

Regulatory safety reviews have specifically examined the post-marketing data for the active ingredient. These reviews have not identified any safety signals or specific issues concerning physical dependence, abuse, or misuse of the medication.

How should Vigrande be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

The storage and disposal instructions for Vigrande (sildenafil) are based on regulatory guidance to maintain product stability and ensure public safety.

Storage Component Requirement
Temperature Store tablets at controlled room temperature, typically 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F). Do not freeze.
Protection Keep the medication in the container it came in, tightly closed.
Child Safety Keep this medication out of reach of children.
Oral Suspension Stability The reconstituted oral suspension is stable for 60 days and must be shaken well for at least 10 seconds before each use.

For disposal, do not flush unused or expired Vigrande down the toilet or pour it down a drain unless specifically instructed to do so. Instead, consult a pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on proper discard methods.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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