raise (SILDENAFIL)

What is Raise?

Raise is commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). It works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow to specific areas, such as the penis or lungs. This improved blood flow allows for better erectile function or reduced pulmonary blood pressure, depending on the condition being treated.

What is the usual dose of Raise?

For Erectile Dysfunction (ED):

• The recommended starting dose is 50 mg, taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity, as needed.
• Depending on effectiveness and tolerance, the dose may be increased to 100 mg or decreased to 25 mg.
• Do not take more than 1 dose per day.

For Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH):

• The typical dose is 20 mg, taken three times a day (every 4–6 hours).

How do I take Raise?

Take Raise with or without food, but avoid high-fat meals as they delay its effect. Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice to prevent increased side effects. Swallow the tablet with water and follow your doctor’s dosage instructions.

For how long do I take Raise?

There's no set time someone should use Raise. How long someone takes it depends on their doctor's advice and how well it works for them.

What is Raise used for?

Raise is primarily indicated for the treatment of:

1. Erectile Dysfunction (ED): To help men achieve and maintain an erection during sexual activity.
2. Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): To improve exercise capacity and delay disease progression by relaxing blood vessels in the lungs.

How long does it take for Raise to start working?

Raise typically starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it. Its effects may vary based on factors like food intake, but it generally requires sexual stimulation to work effectively.

Is Raise effective?

Evidence supporting Raise’s effectiveness comes from clinical trials and real-world studies:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Multiple placebo-controlled studies show that Raise significantly improves erectile function and satisfaction in men with ED. Patients experienced improved ability to achieve and maintain erections during sexual activity.
• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Studies demonstrate improved exercise capacity and reduced pulmonary pressure, validated by the 6-minute walk test and hemodynamic measurements, confirming its role in PAH treatment.

How does one know if Raise is working?

The benefits of Raise are evaluated through:

Patient-reported outcomes: For erectile dysfunction (ED), patient questionnaires like the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) assess improvements in erectile function, satisfaction, and quality of life.

Objective clinical measurements: In pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), the effectiveness is measured by improvements in exercise capacity (e.g., 6-minute walk test), reduced pulmonary arterial pressure, and hemodynamic parameters.

Trial data: Clinical studies compare Raise's performance with placebos or other treatments to track improvements in both ED and PAH symptoms.

How does Raise work?

Raise works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), an enzyme that breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). By blocking PDE5, Raise increases cGMP levels, leading to relaxation of smooth muscle cells and enhanced blood flow.

• In erectile dysfunction, it improves blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal, facilitating erection.
• In pulmonary arterial hypertension, it relaxes pulmonary blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and improving oxygen delivery.

Who should avoid taking Raise?

Raise should not be used by individuals taking nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) as it can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. It is contraindicated in patients with severe cardiovascular conditions, recent stroke or heart attack, or severe liver or kidney impairment. Caution is needed in people with low blood pressure, dehydration, or eye conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa.

Can I take Raise with vitamins or supplements?

Raise may interact with certain supplements, particularly those that affect blood pressure, such as nitric oxide supplements or L-arginine, which can enhance its blood pressure-lowering effects. Additionally, high doses of vitamin E or ginseng may interfere with the efficacy of Raise. Always consult a healthcare provider before using supplements alongside Raise to avoid adverse interactions.

Can I take Raise with other prescription drugs?

Raise can interact with several prescription drugs, including:

1. Nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin): Can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
2. Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin): May also lower blood pressure and cause dizziness or fainting.
3. Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) and antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin): Can increase Raise levels in the blood, raising the risk of side effects.
4. HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir): May enhance Raise's effects, leading to increased side effects.
5. Rifampin: Can reduce Raise's effectiveness.

Can Raise be taken safely while pregnant?

Raise is classified as Category C by the FDA for pregnancy, which means that animal studies have shown potential risks to the fetus, but there are no well-controlled studies in humans. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. There is limited information on the effects of Raise on pregnancy, so it is generally not recommended unless prescribed by a healthcare provider for specific conditions.

Can Raise be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Raise is excreted in breast milk in small amounts, but its effects on a breastfeeding infant are not well-studied. While it is considered relatively safe for short-term use during lactation, it should only be used if deemed necessary by a healthcare provider. Women who are breastfeeding should consult their doctor before using Raise to assess the potential risks and benefits.

Is Raise safe for the elderly?

Older people often have weaker livers, kidneys, or hearts, and may take other medicines. Because of this, doctors need to be careful when deciding on the right dose of a new medicine for them. There haven't been enough older people in medical studies to know for sure if they react to the medicine differently than younger people.

How should I store Raise?

Raise should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and away from moisture, heat, and light. It is important to store Raise out of reach of children and to avoid storing it in the bathroom or areas with high humidity.

Does Raise make people tired or drowsy?

Raise does not typically cause tiredness or drowsiness. However, some people report mild fatigue as a side effect.

Does Raise cause stomach upset?

Yes, stomach upset, indigestion (dyspepsia), or mild nausea are possible side effects of Raise. Taking it with food (preferably a light meal) may help reduce this.

Does Raise affect sleep?

Raise (like Viagra) can sometimes make it hard to sleep. If you have trouble sleeping after taking it, talk to your doctor.

Does Raise make it hard to think or concentrate?

Raise is unlikely to impair cognitive function. However, in rare cases, side effects like dizziness or vision changes could temporarily affect concentration.

Does Raise affect mood?

Raise does not directly influence mood. However, improved confidence and satisfaction related to its effects may lead to an overall better mood in some individuals.

Does Raise interfere with sexual function?

No, Raise is designed to enhance sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow to the penis. However, it does not increase libido or sexual desire.

Does Raise affect appetite?

Raise is not known to significantly affect appetite.

Does Raise cause weight gain?

No, Raise does not cause weight gain.

Does Raise cause headaches?

Raise (like Viagra) can sometimes cause headaches. A study showed that slightly more people who took it got headaches (46%) than those who took a sugar pill (39%). If you get a headache while taking Raise, talk to your doctor.

Does Raise limit driving?

Raise can make you dizzy, lightheaded, or have blurry vision. These side effects could make it unsafe to drive. If this happens, pull over, stop driving, and call a doctor.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Raise?

The study showed that taking Viagra (Raise) along with a moderate amount of alcohol didn't make people's blood pressure drop any more than alcohol alone. Essentially, the combination wasn't more dangerous for blood pressure than alcohol by itself. Nobody experienced dizziness or fainting from a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up.

Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Raise?

Yes, it is generally safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Raise. However, caffeine may exacerbate side effects like headaches or heart palpitations in rare cases.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Raise?

Yes, it is generally safe to exercise while taking Raise. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness or low blood pressure, avoid strenuous activity until you feel stable. Consult your doctor if you have any heart conditions before combining Raise with exercise.

What are Raise possible harms and risks?

Common side effects of Raise include headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, and dizziness. Serious side effects can involve priapism, sudden vision or hearing loss, chest pain, severe hypotension, and allergic reactions. Seek medical help if any severe symptoms occur.