Sildenafil, commonly used for erectile dysfunction, typically starts working within 12 to 30 minutes after taking it, with maximum effect around 30 to 60 minutes if taken on an empty stomach
. Its effects usually last about 4 to 6 hours at full potency, during which time a man can achieve an erection when sexually aroused
. The medication’s half-life is approximately 4 hours, meaning the concentration in the blood reduces by half every 4 hours, and it generally takes about 16 to 20 hours for sildenafil to be almost completely eliminated from the body
. Although the strongest effects last around 4 to 6 hours, low levels of the drug may remain in the system for up to 24 hours, but these levels are typically not sufficient to produce an erection
. In summary:
- Onset: 12 to 30 minutes (up to 1 hour if taken with food)
- Peak effect: around 30 to 60 minutes
- Duration of strong effect: 4 to 6 hours
- Drug presence in system: up to 24 hours at low levels
This duration can vary based on individual factors such as age, health, metabolism, and dosage
