What is a potential visual side effect of using Sildenafil?

Sildenafil, commonly known for treating erectile dysfunction, can indeed have visual side effects due to its action on the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzyme. Among the various potential side effects, a notable one is lack of blue/green color discrimination. This occurs because Sildenafil can affect the photoreceptor cells in the retina, particularly those sensitive to blue light. The drug can interfere with the normal processing of color signals and lead to difficulties distinguishing between blue and green hues, which is a unique side effect associated with PDE5 inhibitors.

Blurred vision, double vision, and night blindness are also visual disturbances that might occur with various medications, but the specific effect on blue/green color discrimination is more closely linked to the mechanism of how Sildenafil acts on the visual pathways. Understanding this effect is crucial for healthcare providers and patients to recognize and manage any visual disturbances that arise while using the medication.