Silvitra (Sildenafil Citrate 100 mg + Vardenafil 20 mg) – Patient Information (UK)
Silvitra is an oral medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It combines two well-known active ingredients from the same therapeutic group—sildenafil citrate and vardenafil—to help improve blood flow to the penis when sexual stimulation is present.
This page explains how Silvitra works, how it is typically taken, what to expect, and how to use it safely. It also covers interactions, food and alcohol considerations, common side effects, and practical tips.
Quick overview
| Product name | Active ingredients | How it’s used | Typical onset | Duration (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silvitra | Sildenafil citrate 100 mg + Vardenafil 20 mg | Oral tablet prior to sexual activity | Often within 30–60 minutes | Several hours (varies by person) |
What Silvitra is
Silvitra contains a combination of two PDE-5 inhibitors: sildenafil (sildenafil citrate) and vardenafil. Both help the smooth muscle in blood vessels relax, increasing blood flow to the penis. This can make it easier to achieve and maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity.
The effect is dependent on sexual stimulation; the medicine does not create arousal on its own.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Erectile function depends on the release of nitric oxide (NO) in the penile tissue, which leads to increased levels of cyclic GMP (cGMP). cGMP helps relax the blood vessels and increase blood flow.
Silvitra works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5). When PDE-5 is blocked:
- cGMP is broken down more slowly
- blood vessels in the penis remain relaxed for longer
- more blood can enter and be trapped in the erectile tissue
As a result, erections are more likely to occur and be sustained—when you are sexually stimulated.
Pharmacokinetics (how the body processes it)
“Pharmacokinetics” describes absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of medicines. Exact figures can vary between individuals, and the combination tablet’s overall profile reflects the behaviour of its two components.
Sildenafil component
- Absorption: Sildenafil is absorbed after oral dosing; taking it with food (especially heavy/fatty meals) may slow onset.
- Distribution: It distributes throughout the body and binds to plasma proteins.
- Metabolism: Primarily metabolised by liver enzymes (notably CYP3A4).
- Elimination: Excreted mainly as metabolites (largely via faeces and urine).
Vardenafil component
- Absorption: Vardenafil is absorbed after oral dosing; heavy meals can delay onset.
- Distribution: It is protein-bound and distributes into tissues.
- Metabolism: Metabolised in the liver (including CYP3A4 pathways).
- Elimination: Excreted mainly as metabolites.
Important note: Because both ingredients rely on hepatic metabolism, liver impairment and some drug interactions can significantly affect exposure and risk of side effects. Always follow safety guidance, particularly if you have liver disease or take interacting medicines.
Typical use in ED
Silvitra is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction—the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It may be prescribed where PDE-5 inhibitor treatment is appropriate.
Who it may suit
- Adult men experiencing ED
- Men who have previously responded to PDE-5 inhibitors (depending on clinician advice and safety)
When it won’t help
- It does not treat reduced sex drive or hormonal causes on its own.
- It will not correct ED caused by structural injury without an appropriate medical approach.
- It cannot be used safely with nitrates or certain heart medicines (see “Important safety information”).
Timing: when to take Silvitra
Silvitra is taken by mouth before sexual activity. Many people find it works best when taken ahead of time to allow absorption.
- Common timing window: around 30 to 60 minutes before sex
- Adjusting for you: some men may need a different timing based on how quickly their body absorbs the medicine
- One-time event use: take it once per sexual attempt (as advised for your situation)
Avoid taking it repeatedly in close succession. If you do not get the expected result, do not increase frequency—review timing and lifestyle factors first and consider medical advice.
Dose information (general guidance)
Silvitra tablets contain a relatively high combined strength: sildenafil citrate 100 mg plus vardenafil 20 mg. Individual suitability depends on health status, current medicines, and risk factors.
If you have been given specific instructions, follow those exactly. As a general patient guide:
- Do not exceed one tablet within a 24-hour period unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.
- Start conservatively if you are new to PDE-5 inhibitors—higher strengths may increase side-effect risk.
- If you miss a dose, do not take an extra dose—wait for the next planned attempt.
Because this product is a combination of two PDE-5 inhibitors, it may be more likely to cause side effects than single-ingredient options. Always prioritise safety.
Indications (what it is used for)
Silvitra is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in adult men. It helps enable erections in response to sexual stimulation.
Food interactions (what you eat matters)
Food can affect how quickly PDE-5 inhibitors start working. In general:
- Heavy, high-fat meals: may delay absorption and slow onset.
- Light meals: may have less impact on timing.
Practical tip: if you want more predictable timing, consider taking Silvitra on a relatively lighter stomach, or set it so it is taken after a meal rather than during a very heavy one.
Alcohol and Silvitra
Alcohol can both reduce sexual performance and increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or low blood pressure. With PDE-5 inhibitors, alcohol may intensify flushing, headache, and light-headedness.
- Moderation is strongly advised.
- Avoid heavy drinking before sexual activity.
- If you feel dizzy or unsteady, stop sexual activity and sit or lie down.
If you have heart conditions, blood pressure issues, or take interacting medicines, alcohol should be discussed with a clinician/pharmacist.
Medicine interactions (important)
Interactions can be dangerous. Some combinations may cause a significant drop in blood pressure or affect drug levels in your body. Always check with a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are unsure.
Absolute contraindications
Do not take Silvitra if you use nitrates or nitric oxide donors (for example, glyceryl trinitrate tablets/spray/patch, isosorbide preparations). The combination can cause a dangerous fall in blood pressure.
Also avoid concurrent use with riociguat (used in pulmonary hypertension), due to similar safety concerns.
Blood pressure medicines and heart medicines
- Alpha-blockers (for prostate symptoms or blood pressure): may increase dizziness/low blood pressure in some people.
- Antihypertensives: the blood-pressure lowering effect may be amplified.
- Some antiarrhythmics: may interact through liver enzyme pathways.
Medicines that affect liver enzymes (CYP3A4)
Both sildenafil and vardenafil are metabolised in the liver (notably via CYP3A4). Medicines that inhibit this pathway can raise levels and increase side effects.
- Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin)
- HIV protease inhibitors
- Some antidepressants and other medicines may also affect metabolism
Grapefruit juice can act as a CYP3A4 inhibitor for some people and may increase PDE-5 inhibitor exposure. Consider avoiding it when using Silvitra.
Other PDE-5 inhibitors and ED treatments
- Avoid combining with other PDE-5 inhibitors (or taking additional ED tablets on top), as this can raise risk without improving safety.
- Be cautious with “nitric oxide boosters” or supplements—some can interact with nitrates or blood-pressure effects.
Safety profile: side effects and when to seek help
Like all medicines, Silvitra can cause side effects. Many are mild and improve as your body adjusts, but some symptoms require urgent attention.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Flushing / warmth in the face
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Indigestion or nausea
- Nasal congestion
- Visual effects (e.g., blurred vision, changes in colour perception—less commonly reported)
- Back pain or muscle aches (can occur with PDE-5 inhibitors)
Less common but serious risks
- Sudden vision loss or sudden decrease in vision
- Sudden hearing loss (with or without dizziness)
- Chest pain or symptoms of a heart problem
- Prolonged erection (priapism) lasting more than 4 hours
- Severe dizziness/fainting
Urgent guidance
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours
- chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or collapse
- sudden vision changes or sudden hearing loss
Practical use tips for best results
- Allow time: take it with appropriate timing before sex to let it absorb.
- Keep meals lighter: avoid very heavy/fatty meals right before use for more predictable onset.
- Stay relaxed: stress and performance anxiety reduce the body’s ability to maintain erection.
- Use sexual stimulation: the medicine helps your response, but it doesn’t replace arousal.
- Hydrate: mild dehydration can worsen dizziness—drink water sensibly.
- Avoid smoking: smoking contributes to ED through vascular effects.
- Check BP/heart status: if you have cardiovascular disease, follow clinician advice about safe ED treatment.
Who should be extra cautious
Discuss use with a clinician/pharmacist if you have any of the following:
- Heart disease or unstable angina
- Low or high blood pressure issues
- History of priapism
- Serious liver or kidney problems
- Retinitis pigmentosa or certain eye conditions
- Blood cell disorders affecting erections (e.g., sickle cell anaemia, leukaemia)
If you have any doubt about cardiovascular safety or medicine interactions, seek medical guidance before taking Silvitra.
Alternative options for ED (UK context)
ED has many possible causes, including vascular, psychological, hormonal, neurological, and medication-related factors. If Silvitra is not suitable or not effective, alternative approaches may include:
Other PDE-5 inhibitors
- Sildenafil (single ingredient)
- Tadalafil (often longer-lasting; taken daily by some regimens depending on suitability)
- Vardenafil (single ingredient)
- Avanafil (where available)
Non-PDE-5 options
- Vacuum erection devices
- Penile injections or intraurethral therapy in selected cases
- Hormonal evaluation if low testosterone is suspected
- Counselling/sex therapy for anxiety-related or psychogenic ED
Your best option depends on your medical history, other medicines, and personal preferences for timing and duration.
Market and legal context in the United Kingdom
In the UK, medicines for erectile dysfunction are regulated and quality-assured through the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and other UK frameworks. In general, ED medicines must be supplied through appropriate channels with correct patient information and safety checks to reduce risks from interactions and contraindications.
The UK healthcare system recognises ED as a medical condition with potential links to cardiovascular health. Many professional guidelines encourage assessment of underlying causes, especially where ED is new, worsening, or associated with other symptoms.
Product availability can vary by supplier and formulary. Always ensure the product you receive is sourced from reputable channels and accompanied by accurate patient information.
Recent guidance and best practice (UK-friendly summary)
While specific advice may vary by organisation and individual circumstances, common UK best-practice principles include:
- Assess cardiovascular safety: ED can be an early marker of vascular disease.
- Check interactions first: nitrates and interacting medicines remain key safety barriers.
- Use the lowest effective dose: higher doses may increase side effects.
- Consider underlying causes: diabetes, hypertension, smoking, depression, and medication side effects should be reviewed.
- Review if ineffective: if one PDE-5 inhibitor doesn’t work, another approach may be needed rather than simply repeating.
Delivery and availability (online pharmacy notes)
Availability depends on stock and supplier arrangements. When ordering online in the UK, typical expectations include:
- Secure packaging to protect tablets and support privacy.
- Tracking or delivery updates from the delivery provider where available.
- Discreet delivery options (common for sexual health products).
- Clear labelling and inclusion of patient information.
Delivery times vary by location and dispatch schedules. Please check the retailer’s specific delivery policy at checkout.
FAQ
1) How long before sex should I take Silvitra?
Many people take it around 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. Heavy meals can delay onset, so timing may vary.
2) Can I take Silvitra with food?
Yes, but very heavy or fatty meals can make it work more slowly. A lighter meal or taking it with time away from a big meal may help.
3) Is Silvitra the same as Viagra?
Silvitra contains sildenafil citrate (found in Viagra) plus an additional PDE-5 inhibitor ingredient, vardenafil. Because this is a combination product, side-effect risk and suitability may differ from single-ingredient sildenafil.
4) Can I use it if I drink alcohol?
Small amounts may be tolerated by some people, but alcohol can worsen ED and increase dizziness or flushing. Avoid heavy drinking.
5) What medications must I avoid?
Do not use Silvitra with nitrates (and nitric oxide donors) or riociguat. Many other medicines can interact—especially those affecting liver enzymes. Check with a pharmacist if you’re unsure.
6) What if Silvitra doesn’t work for me?
Consider timing and food intake first. ED can have underlying causes, and stress, alcohol, or other medical factors can reduce success. If it repeatedly fails, discuss alternatives such as another PDE-5 inhibitor, lifestyle changes, or evaluation for underlying causes.
7) What side effects are normal?
Mild headaches, flushing, indigestion, and dizziness can happen. Severe reactions, fainting, chest pain, or prolonged erection are not normal—seek urgent help.
8) Can I drive after taking Silvitra?
If you feel dizzy, light-headed, or have visual changes, avoid driving and operating machinery until you feel fully well.
9) How often can I take it?
Typically it is used as needed before sexual activity, not multiple times in a short period. Follow the specific dosing instructions provided for your situation, and do not exceed the maximum frequency advised by safety guidance.
10) Are there lifestyle changes that improve ED?
Yes. Reducing smoking, limiting alcohol, managing weight, exercising regularly, improving sleep, and addressing stress can improve ED and response to treatment.
Summary
Silvitra (sildenafil citrate 100 mg + vardenafil 20 mg) is a PDE-5 inhibitor combination used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men. It enhances the natural blood-flow process needed for an erection during sexual stimulation. For the best results, plan timing (often 30–60 minutes), consider lighter meals for faster onset, and keep alcohol to a minimum.
Safety is essential: do not combine with nitrates or riociguat, and be careful with interacting medicines and conditions affecting heart, liver, or blood vessels. If you experience warning signs such as chest pain, sudden vision/hearing changes, or an erection lasting more than 4 hours, seek urgent medical help.
