The "purple triangle pill" is commonly associated with the medication Viagra (sildenafil citrate), which is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Here's a detailed overview of this medication:

What is Viagra?

Generic Name: Sildenafil
Brand Name: Viagra

Description

Viagra is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, helping a man achieve and maintain an erection.

Uses

Primary Use: Treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED)

Other Uses: Sometimes prescribed for pulmonary arterial hypertension (under the brand name Revatio)

How to Take

Dosage Forms: Oral tablets

Strengths: Typically available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets

Administration: Taken as needed, about 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. Should not be taken more than once per day.

Mechanism of Action

Sildenafil works by inhibiting PDE5, an enzyme that regulates blood flow in the penis. By blocking PDE5, sildenafil promotes the relaxation of smooth muscles and increases blood flow to the penis, facilitating an erection in response to sexual stimulation.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

Headache

Flushing

Indigestion

Nasal congestion

Dizziness

Visual disturbances (e.g., changes in color vision)

Serious side effects, although rare, may include:

Priapism (prolonged and painful erection)

Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes

Sudden hearing decrease or loss

Severe hypotension

Precautions

Medical History: Inform your doctor about your medical history, especially heart problems, stroke, low or high blood pressure, severe dehydration, and liver or kidney disease.

Drug Interactions: Avoid using Viagra with nitrates (used for chest pain) or guanylate cyclase stimulators (used for pulmonary hypertension), as this can cause a significant drop in blood pressure.

Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake while using this medication, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

Contraindications

Use with nitrates or nitric oxide donors (e.g., nitroglycerin)

Known hypersensitivity to sildenafil or any component of the tablet

Severe cardiovascular disorders where sexual activity is inadvisable