Nitrate-containing medications and phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors
Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, such as Viagra, Levitra, or Cialis, have revolutionized the treatment of erection problems (erectile dysfunction). However, they can cause life-threatening side effects for anyone who also takes nitroglycerin or another medication containing an organic nitrate. This combination can make your blood pressure fall too low, possibly leading to a stroke, a heart attack, or death.
Medications that contain organic nitrates include:
- Nitroglycerin (such as Minitran, Nitro-Dur, Nitrolingual Spray, Nitrostat).
- Isosorbide mononitrate (such as Imdur).
- Isosorbide dinitrate (such as Cedocard, Coronex).
- Sodium nitroprusside (such as Nipride).
- Amyl nitrite (sometimes called "poppers"), which are sometimes abused.
Nitrates found in foods are not a danger when taking phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors.
| Author: | Douglas Dana Ralph Poore | Last Updated: August 24, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology | |
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