Can You Cut, Split Or Crush Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate)?

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not you can safely cut, split or crush Viagra (sildenafil citrate).

Question

I bought a package of Viagra 100mg. I cut the tablet with the pointy end of a jackknife so as to get 30-50 mg. The inside of the blue coating was white. My concerns are will exposure to air affect the pieces now that they're not fully sealed in blue coatings and to what extent....and of course, they're out of the blister pack; have I ruined them to the point that I should not take them?

Asked by Davis On Jul 08, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Jul 08, 2022
Last updated Apr 06, 2024

Key points

  • Viagra (sildenafil) is not an extended-release drug and can safely be cut or split.
  • The tablet is oddly shaped and contains a film coating, which may make it more difficult to cut than other tablets.
  • Cut/Split Viagra tablets should generally not be stored for later use.

Answer

Yes, Viagra and generic Viagra products (sildenafil citrate), can be safely cut or split in half. In addition, they can be crushed if needed.

It is important to note that Viagra tablets are film-coated and can be difficult to accurately cut if you don't use a sharp knife or pill cutter. It is highly recommended to use a pill cutter that is intended to cut prescription and over-the-counter medication in half if you are looking to split Viagra or generic sildenafil citrate tablets.

In regard to the contents inside the film coating of Viagra tablets, air exposure will likely degrade the tablets faster than usual if the film coating is compromised. Excess humidity and moisture can affect medication potency, which is why it is never recommended to keep medication in high moisture areas like the bathroom. 

If you do cut your Viagra or sildenafil citrate tablets in half, be sure to keep them in a closed container, outside of direct light. Splitting Viagra pills should only be done when you plan on taking those doses soon and they should not be stored for extended periods of time.

If your Viagra tablets have been exposed to excess moisture, they likely will not be harmful, just possibly not as effective.

About Viagra

Viagra (sildenafil) is classified as a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It was originally developed as an anti-anginal agent but was subsequently found to be more effective in treating erectile dysfunction. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, like Viagra, are considered first-line therapy for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Viagra works by inhibiting the breakdown of cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate), which causes smooth muscle relaxation in the corpus cavernosum and allows the inflow of blood. After taking by mouth, maximum blood concentrations are reached in an average of 60 minutes.

References

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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