Generic Viagra (Sildenafil)

Generic Viagra is the commonly used name for sildenafil citrate, a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. Sildenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor. It works by supporting increased blood circulation to the penis, which may help you achieve and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation.
It does not cause an automatic erection, increase sexual desire, or cure the underlying cause of ED. If reduced sexual desire may be related to hormonal factors, our hormone therapy options for low testosterone may be relevant.

Generic sildenafil and brand-name Viagra contain the same active ingredient: sildenafil citrate. FDA-approved generic medications must meet the same strict requirements for quality, potency, dosage, and effectiveness as their brand-name counterparts. The tablets may differ in color, shape, manufacturer, price, or inactive ingredients, but they are intended to provide the same clinical benefit when taken as prescribed.

Generic Viagra commonly begins working within 30 to 60 minutes, although response time varies. Sildenafil may be taken from 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity, as directed by your healthcare provider. Its effects generally remain useful for about 4 hours, but this does not mean you will have a continuous erection. Sexual stimulation is still required. Consuming a meal high in fat may slow the time it takes for the medication to begin taking effect.

Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction is commonly available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg strengths. Many patients begin with 50 mg, but your provider may prescribe a lower or higher strength based on your health, other medications, treatment response, and side effects. Take only the dose prescribed for you and do not take sildenafil more than once in 24 hours. Never change your dose without speaking with your healthcare provider.

Yes. Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction requires a prescription in the United States. A legitimate online service will ask you to complete a health assessment that is reviewed by a licensed healthcare provider. If sildenafil is safe and appropriate for you, the provider may issue a prescription. Avoid websites that sell Viagra or sildenafil without a prescription or medical review, because the product may be counterfeit, contaminated, or incorrectly dosed.

Common sildenafil side effects include headache, flushing, indigestion or heartburn, nasal congestion, nausea, dizziness, sensitivity to light, and temporary changes in color vision. These effects are often mild, but you should contact your healthcare provider if they are severe or do not go away. Seek urgent medical help for chest pain, an erection lasting more than 4 hours, or a sudden decrease or loss of vision or hearing.

Do not take Generic Viagra if you use nitrates, such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide, or recreational nitrites known as “poppers.” Combining these substances with sildenafil can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Sildenafil may also be unsuitable for people with certain heart, blood pressure, eye, liver, or kidney conditions. Tell your provider about every prescription medicine, over-the-counter product, and supplement you use. Do not combine sildenafil with another ED medication unless a healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.