This guide breaks down typical doses, timing, and adjustments to help you use sildenafil safely and effectively. Sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, works by increasing blood flow to the penis, which helps achieve and maintain an erection in men experiencing erectile dysfunction. Viagra (sildenafil) is used to treat erectile dysfunction or impotence in men. Includes Viagra side effects, interactions and indications. Sildenafil is in a class of medications called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. Sildenafil treats erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Sildenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction (also called sexual impotence). Sildenafil belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Sildenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men or pulmonary arterial hypertension in adults and children, depending on the brand or formulation. Includes sildenafil side effects, interactions, and indications. Sildenafil, sold under the brand name Viagra among others, is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. [4][8] It is also sometimes used off-label for the treatment of certain symptoms in secondary Raynaud's phenomenon. [9] Sildenafil works by blocking an enzyme in the body called PDE5, which helps relax certain blood vessels. For erectile dysfunction, it increases blood flow to the penis when aroused.