What is the AN354 Pill?
An imprint code is an identifier found on prescription and over-the-counter medication tablets and capsules that is required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For the pill marked with 'AN354', this imprint identifies it as Sildenafil Citrate 50 mg. The pill is a white, oval-shaped tablet and is manufactured by Amneal Pharmaceuticals. Sildenafil is the active ingredient also found in the brand-name medication Viagra, and AN354 is a generic equivalent.
How Sildenafil Works
Sildenafil belongs to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Its primary function is to relax and widen blood vessels by blocking the PDE5 enzyme. This action allows for improved blood flow to specific areas of the body. For erectile dysfunction, this increased blood flow is directed to the penis, facilitating an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. In cases of pulmonary arterial hypertension, it helps to relax the blood vessels in the lungs, improving exercise capacity and delaying worsening of the condition.
Medical Uses of Sildenafil (AN354)
According to Drugs.com and NCBI Bookshelf, the Sildenafil 50 mg pill marked AN354 is used to treat several conditions.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- One of the most well-known uses of sildenafil is the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
- It is taken on an as-needed basis, typically about an hour before sexual activity.
- It helps men achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
- Sildenafil is also used under a different brand name (Revatio) to treat PAH, a serious form of high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs.
- This improves exercise ability and delays the worsening of the disease in both men and women.
Other uses
- Sildenafil is sometimes used off-label for conditions like Raynaud phenomenon and altitude-induced hypoxemia.
Important Safety Information and Precautions
Like all medications, Sildenafil carries important safety information. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before taking AN354 to ensure it is safe for your specific health profile.
Contraindications:
- Nitrates: Do not take sildenafil if you are also using nitrate drugs, such as nitroglycerin, for chest pain. The combination can cause a sudden and dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- Riociguat: Co-administration with the guanylate cyclase stimulator riociguat is contraindicated due to increased risk of hypotension.
- Pre-existing conditions: Individuals with heart problems, pre-existing eye conditions (such as retinitis pigmentosa), or a history of stroke or heart attack should exercise caution.
- Pediatric use: Chronic use of sildenafil is not recommended for children due to increased mortality risk observed in some studies.
Potential Drug Interactions:
- Grapefruit juice may increase the levels of sildenafil in your body, leading to more side effects. It is best to avoid it.
- Certain medications, including some HIV protease inhibitors, oral antifungals, and other blood pressure drugs, can interact with sildenafil. Always inform your doctor of all medicines you are taking.
Potential Side Effects
Common side effects associated with Sildenafil 50 mg include:
- Headache
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling)
- Upset stomach or indigestion
- Abnormal vision (e.g., blurred vision, changes in color vision)
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Muscle or back pain
Serious Side Effects: Seek immediate medical help if you experience:
- An erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism), as it can cause permanent damage to the penis.
- Sudden vision loss or sudden hearing loss.
- Symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pain spreading to the arm or jaw, or nausea.
Generic vs. Brand-Name Sildenafil (Viagra)
| Feature | Sildenafil (Generic, e.g., AN354) | Viagra (Brand-Name) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Sildenafil Citrate | Sildenafil Citrate |
| Manufacturer | Amneal Pharmaceuticals (AN354), and others | Pfizer |
| Cost | Generally lower, as it is a generic equivalent | Often higher, as it is the original brand-name drug |
| Appearance | White, oval tablet with 'AN354' imprint | Blue, diamond-shaped tablet with 'Pfizer' on one side |
| Effectiveness | Bioequivalent; works identically to Viagra | Works identically to its generic counterparts |
Conclusion
Understanding what pill is marked AN354 is crucial for anyone who has been prescribed Sildenafil Citrate. This white, oval tablet contains 50 mg of the active ingredient and is used to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. It operates by increasing blood flow, but this mechanism requires careful consideration of potential side effects and dangerous drug interactions, particularly with nitrates. Patients should always follow their doctor's instructions, inform their healthcare provider of all other medications, and be aware of the signs of serious side effects. While it functions identically to its brand-name counterpart, Viagra, the lower cost and distinct appearance are notable differences. Responsible use and open communication with a doctor are key to ensuring safety and effectiveness.
Visit the NIH website for more detailed information on Sildenafil.
