Sildenafil (Viagra) is a PDE5 inhibitor that is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in males and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in both men and women.
Gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass surgery are two forms of bariatric procedures used to assist obese people lose weight. These operations can alter how your body absorbs drugs, including sildenafil.
How Gastric Sleeve and Bypass Surgery Affect Sildenafil
Absorption: Gastric sleeve or bypass surgery is a substantial medical procedure that modifies an individual’s digestive system. One possible outcome of this procedure is a change in how the body absorbs drugs.
The absorption of sildenafil, a common erectile dysfunction medicine, may be compromised.
After gastric surgery, the stomach and intestines alter significantly in size and function. As a result, these organs may take longer to absorb drugs. This delay in absorption can impact sildenafil’s effectiveness, as it may take longer to reach therapeutic levels in the blood.
However, individual experiences may differ. The absorption rate can be influenced by various factors, including the type of surgery, sildenafil dosage, and the patient’s general condition. Some may discover that sildenafil continues to work as expected following surgery, while others may notice a delay in its effects.
If you have had gastric sleeve or bypass surgery and are taking sildenafil, you should discuss any problems or queries with your doctor. They can advise you on improving the medication’s effectiveness and guarantee that it is safe to consume.
Considerations for Taking Sildenafil After Gastric Sleeve or Bypass Surgery
They may also be able to recommend alternate treatments if sildenafil is ineffective for you after surgery.
Bioavailability: Following gastric sleeve or bypass surgery, the amount of sildenafil absorbed into your bloodstream may be reduced. This means the medication may be less effective than before surgery. Consult your doctor about whether sildenafil is safe to use following surgery.
Inform your doctor about all your medications, including over-the-counter products and vitamins. Take sildenafil on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. Begin with the lowest sildenafil dose and gradually raise it as needed under your doctor’s supervision. Be careful of sildenafil’s adverse effects, including headache, flushing, indigestion, and dizziness.
Alternatives to sildenafil following gastric sleeve or bypass surgery.
If sildenafil does not work for you following gastric sleeve or bypass surgery, your doctor may offer additional ED treatments, such as:
Vacuum Erection Devices
Suppositories
Injectable medications
Implants
In conclusion, gastric sleeve or bypass surgery can affect sildenafil absorption, thus delaying its effectiveness. However, individual experiences may differ, and any concerns should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
If you have any concerns about taking sildenafil following gastric sleeve or bypass surgery, you should talk to your doctor. Patients and healthcare providers can work together to ensure that medications are optimally beneficial and safe.
