What is the 5343 pill and its active ingredient?
The pill imprinted with "TEVA 5343" on one side is a generic form of sildenafil, manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals. The imprint "5343" specifically denotes the 100 mg strength of sildenafil. This medication is most commonly known by the brand names Viagra, used for erectile dysfunction (ED), and Revatio, used for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
Medical uses of the 5343 pill
Sildenafil is a versatile medication with two distinct medical applications, both of which involve its vasodilatory effects. The administration schedule differs depending on the condition being treated.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Sildenafil is used to treat ED, a condition where a man cannot achieve or maintain a penile erection sufficient for sexual activity. For ED, the pill is taken on an as-needed basis, typically before sexual activity. The 100 mg strength of the 5343 pill is a available strength for this use.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
PAH is a type of high blood pressure in the arteries that supply the lungs. Sildenafil is used to improve exercise ability in adults and children with PAH. When prescribed for PAH, sildenafil is often taken regularly to reduce blood pressure and ease the strain on the heart.
How sildenafil works: The mechanism of action
Sildenafil belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors. The mechanism of action is as follows:
- During sexual arousal, the body releases nitric oxide (NO), which stimulates the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
- cGMP causes the smooth muscles in the corpus cavernosum of the penis to relax, allowing for increased blood flow and an erection.
- The PDE5 enzyme naturally breaks down cGMP, ending the erection. Sildenafil works by inhibiting this enzyme.
- By blocking PDE5, sildenafil allows cGMP to accumulate, enhancing the effects of nitric oxide and improving the erectile response.
- For PAH, the same principle applies, but in the pulmonary blood vessels. By inhibiting PDE5, sildenafil relaxes the blood vessel walls in the lungs, which lowers the blood pressure in that area.
Common side effects and warnings
As with any medication, sildenafil can cause side effects. It is important to be aware of both common and rare, serious adverse effects.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Flushing (warmth or redness in the face, neck, or chest)
- Upset stomach or indigestion
- Nasal congestion or a stuffy nose
- Abnormal vision, including blurred vision or changes in color perception (e.g., seeing a blue tinge)
- Muscle pain or back pain
Serious side effects and warnings
- Priapism: A prolonged, painful erection lasting more than 4 hours. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage to the penis.
- Vision Loss: A sudden decrease or loss of vision in one or both eyes has been reported and could be a sign of a serious eye condition.
- Hearing Loss: Sudden hearing loss, sometimes accompanied by ringing in the ears, can occur.
- Cardiovascular Events: Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, or irregular heartbeat, especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
Who should not take the 5343 pill?
This medication is not suitable for everyone. It is crucial to inform your doctor about your complete medical history and all other medications you are taking.
Contraindications
- Nitrate Users: Anyone taking nitrate medications for chest pain (angina) should not take sildenafil. This includes nitroglycerin and certain recreational drugs known as "poppers," as the combination can cause a sudden, severe drop in blood pressure.
- Guanylate Cyclase (GC) Stimulators: Patients using GC stimulators like riociguat should not take sildenafil.
- Hypersensitivity: Those with a known allergy to sildenafil or any of the tablet's components.
Comparison table of PDE5 inhibitors
| Feature | Teva Sildenafil (5343 pill) | Tadalafil (Cialis) | Vardenafil (Levitra) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Sildenafil Citrate | Tadalafil | Vardenafil |
| Available Strengths | 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg |
| Duration of Action | Up to 4-8 hours | Up to 36 hours | Up to 4-5 hours |
| Administration Frequency | As needed, typically not more than once daily | As needed or once daily | As needed, typically not more than once daily |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, visual changes | Headache, flushing, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches | Headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion |
| Effect with Food | Can be delayed by a high-fat meal | Not significantly affected by food | Not significantly affected by food |
Important considerations for administration
Always follow your doctor's instructions for using the 5343 pill. For erectile dysfunction, it is typically taken before sexual activity. The pill can be taken with or without food, though a high-fat meal may delay its effects. It is crucial not to exceed the prescribed frequency to avoid an increased risk of side effects. For pulmonary arterial hypertension, it is taken on a regular schedule as prescribed.
Conclusion: Safe and informed use is essential
The 5343 pill is a white, oval, 100 mg sildenafil tablet from Teva Pharmaceuticals used for treating erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. It is a powerful medication that requires a doctor's prescription and careful adherence to medical advice. Before taking it, it is critical to disclose all medical conditions and other medications to your healthcare provider to avoid dangerous interactions, especially with nitrates. Always seek professional medical guidance if you experience any serious side effects.
Learn more about Sildenafil from the National Institutes of Health.
