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  • Sildenafil 50mg is said to improve sex in 75 per cent of cases. If the drug is ineffective the man should be referred to a GP
  • The drug only works in those with sexual problems related to ED
  • If a man requesting sildenafil has previously been supplied with it by the pharmacy, he should be asked if anything has changed with respect to his health status or medicines usage
  • Because of the association of ED with hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, pharmacists should advise the man to consult their doctor within six months of starting to use sildenafil for a clinical review of potential underlying conditions and risk factors
  • Providing lifestyle advice is important in the management of ED. Taking regular exercise and the role of stress should be discussed. Advice and support in losing weight and stopping smoking should also be offered
  • Excess alcohol is commonly associated with ED and people should be advised accordingly
  • Advise the man not to take unlicensed herbal remedies for erectile dysfunction as the MHRA has warned these can contain drug substances, which may be contraindicated or interact with prescribed medication; some have been found to contain sildenafil
  • Advice on avoiding recreational drugs is also important. If other ‘unregulated’ drugs for ED are being purchased (e.g. over the internet) this should be discouraged as it is not safe.
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