Rosh Internal Medicine Boost Practice Exam

Which of the following is a potential adverse effect of Sildenafil?

1. Constipation

2. Cyanopsia

3. Prostate-specific antigen elevation

4. Urinary retention

The correct answer is: Cyanopsia

Sildenafil is a medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction and is known to have several potential side effects. Among these, cyanopsia is particularly notable. Cyanopsia refers to a blue tint in vision, which occurs due to the drug's interaction with phosphodiesterase type 6 (PDE6), an enzyme found in the retina. When sildenafil inhibits PDE6, it can lead to alterations in the way the eye perceives colors, particularly resulting in a blue vision. This effect generally occurs shortly after taking the medication and is temporary, typically resolving within a few hours. The other options listed do not correlate with the directly observed side effects associated with sildenafil. While some medications might cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation or urinary retention, these are not common or documented reactions related to sildenafil usage. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) elevation is usually associated with prostate conditions rather than direct effects from sildenafil.