What is Virecta for? Understanding its Uses and Considerations

October 6, 2025 •

3 min read

Virecta is a medication containing Sildenafil, which is also the active ingredient in Viagra, and is primarily used to address erectile dysfunction. It is also indicated for managing conditions like pulmonary arterial hypertension, a type of high blood pressure in the lungs.

Quick Summary

Virecta, containing sildenafil citrate, is a PDE5 inhibitor prescribed to manage erectile dysfunction in adult males. The medication enhances blood flow to the penis to support achieving and maintaining an erection during sexual stimulation. It is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Key Points

Active Ingredient: The active ingredient in Virecta is Sildenafil, the same compound found in Viagra.
Primary Use: Virecta is most commonly prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult males.
Secondary Use: Sildenafil, the active ingredient, is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), though often under a different brand name and administration guidelines.
How It Works: As a PDE5 inhibitor, it increases blood flow to specific body parts by relaxing blood vessels.
Administration: For ED, it is taken as needed before sexual activity, with specific instructions provided by a healthcare professional.
Major Warning: It is contraindicated for patients taking nitrate medications due to the risk of a severe drop in blood pressure.
Side Effects: Common side effects include headache, flushing, and temporary changes in vision.

Virecta, manufactured by Eva Pharma, contains sildenafil citrate. Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor that works by relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow. While primarily used for erectile dysfunction (ED), sildenafil also has applications in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Understanding the drug's mechanism, potential side effects, and precautions is important for safe use under medical supervision.

The Primary Indication: Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection for sexual activity. Sildenafil helps treat ED by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, which increases levels of cGMP, a substance that relaxes smooth muscles in the penis and increases blood flow. This process aids in achieving an erection when sexually stimulated.

A Secondary Use: Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)

Sildenafil is also used for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition of high blood pressure in the lungs' arteries. By relaxing and widening these blood vessels, sildenafil reduces blood pressure in the lungs, easing the heart's workload and potentially improving exercise capacity. For PAH, sildenafil is often prescribed under a different brand and may have different administration guidelines than for ED, like Revatio.

Proper Administration for Virecta

For ED, Virecta is taken orally, typically before sexual activity. The specific amount and timing should always be determined by a healthcare professional based on individual needs and medical history. Taking it with a high-fat meal may influence its effect. Adjustments may be needed for elderly patients or those with kidney or liver issues.

Potential Side Effects of Virecta (Sildenafil)

Virecta can cause side effects, most commonly headache, flushing, nasal congestion, indigestion, and temporary visual changes. Serious but rare side effects include prolonged erection (priapism), sudden vision loss, and sudden hearing loss. Immediate medical attention is required for serious side effects.

Virecta vs. Other Sildenafil-Based Products

Virecta contains sildenafil, as does Viagra for ED and Revatio for PAH. A comparison highlights their differences:


Feature	Virecta	Viagra	Revatio
Manufacturer	Eva Pharma	Pfizer	Pfizer
Primary Indication	Erectile Dysfunction	Erectile Dysfunction	Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Use for ED	Indicated for ED	Indicated for ED	Not indicated for ED
Use for PAH	Used for PAH in certain regions	Not indicated for PAH	Indicated for PAH
Form	Film-coated tablets	Film-coated tablets	Tablets, oral liquid, injection
Administration Frequency for ED	As prescribed by a healthcare professional, typically not more than once per day	As prescribed by a healthcare professional, typically not more than once per day	Not applicable
Administration Frequency for PAH	As prescribed by a healthcare professional	Not applicable	As prescribed by a healthcare professional, typically multiple times per day

Contraindications and Precautions

Virecta should not be used with nitrate medications due to the risk of a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Patients with certain heart conditions, those taking other PDE5 inhibitors or guanylate cyclase stimulators, or those who consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice should avoid Virecta or use it with caution under medical advice. Conditions like sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or active peptic ulcers also require caution.

Conclusion: The Importance of Professional Guidance

Virecta, containing sildenafil, treats ED and, in other forms, PAH by increasing blood flow. While effective, it carries risks, including side effects and serious contraindications with certain medications and medical conditions. The different brand names and administration guidelines for ED and PAH highlight the need for appropriate use. Always consult a healthcare provider before using Virecta to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your health needs and to receive proper administration instructions.

Eva Pharma is an international pharmaceutical company that manufactures Virecta.

Frequently Asked Questions

The active ingredient in Virecta is sildenafil citrate, the same compound used in the well-known medication Viagra.

Virecta works by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, which increases the levels of a substance called cGMP. This relaxes the smooth muscles in the penis's blood vessels, allowing for increased blood flow and an erection in response to sexual stimulation.

Virecta should be taken orally as directed by a healthcare professional, typically before sexual activity. It's important to follow the specific instructions provided regarding the amount and timing.

Common side effects include headaches, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, back pain, and visual disturbances like a blue color tinge or blurred vision.

Individuals with certain pre-existing heart conditions should use Virecta with caution and only after a full medical evaluation. It is contraindicated for those taking nitrate medications, as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Virecta is indicated for use in adult males for erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil, the active ingredient, can be used to treat pulmonary hypertension in both men and women, but Virecta specifically targets ED.

You should avoid taking Virecta with nitrate medications, certain guanylate cyclase stimulators, and grapefruit juice, as these can increase the risk of adverse effects.