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dateMarch 27, 2024

Sildenafil vs Viagra – What is the Difference?

Having issues getting or keeping an erection can put a damper on your sex life. That’s where medications like Viagra and sildenafil come in – they help men struggling with erectile dysfunction to get and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. But what exactly is the difference between Viagra and sildenafil? You’ve probably […]

Sildenafil vs Viagra

Sildenafil vs Viagra

Having issues getting or keeping an erection can put a damper on your sex life. That’s where medications like Viagra and sildenafil come in – they help men struggling with erectile dysfunction to get and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. But what exactly is the difference between Viagra and sildenafil? You’ve probably heard of the popular ‘little blue pill’ called Viagra, but sildenafil might not ring as many bells. The truth is, they’re very closely related. This article is going to break down everything you need to know about Viagra vs. sildenafil. We’ll cover each, how they’re similar and different, and which might suit your needs and budget. Let’s explore:

What is Sildenafil?

Sildenafil is the generic name for the active ingredient in medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), like Viagra. It’s the ‘plain’ version of the drug. Viagra was the original, brand-name medication containing sildenafil citrate as the active ingredient to treat ED. But once Viagra’s patent ran out, other drug companies could start producing generic sildenafil.

How Long Does Sildenafil Last?

The effects of sildenafil typically last for 4-6 hours. However, the medication can remain active in your system for up to 20 hours.

How Does It Work?

So sildenafil works the same way as Viagra – by increasing blood flow to the penis to help get and keep an erection. It comes in tablet form that you take about an hour before sexual activity.

What is Viagra?

Viagra is the famous little blue pill made by the drug company Pfizer. It was the first oral medication approved to treat erectile dysfunction back in 1998.

How Does It Work?

The active ingredient in Viagra that does the work is a compound called sildenafil citrate. This chemical helps increase blood flow to the penis, allowing men to get and keep an erection firm enough for sexual activity. Before Viagra came along, guys struggling with ED had to resort to other treatments like injections or invasive penile implants. But Viagra provided a convenient pill you could pop before getting intimate with your partner. The big deal about Viagra was its effectiveness combined with its ease of use as a simple oral medication. For men bothered by ED, it allowed much more spontaneity and brought a lot more confidence in the bedroom.

Also Read: Does Viagra Connect Work?

What are the key differences between Sildenafil and Viagra?

To give you further clarity about Viagra and sildenafil, we have highlighted their main differences in points. Have a look:

Active Ingredient

  • Viagra contains sildenafil citrate as the active ingredient. Sildenafil contains just plain sildenafil.

Brand Name vs. Generic

  • Viagra is the brand name drug made by Pfizer. Sildenafil is the generic, non-branded version.

Cost

  • Viagra is much more expensive. Sildenafil is cheaper since it’s generic.

Appearance

  • Viagra tablets are little blue pills. Sildenafil tablets come in different colours/shapes.

Dosage Options

  • Viagra comes in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg doses. Sildenafil may have some additional dosage strengths.

Manufacturers

  • Viagra is made by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer.
  • Sildenafil is produced by various generic drug makers.
So, in simple terms – Viagra is the famous, recognizable brand name treatment for ED made by one company. Sildenafil is the same core medicine, without the brand name and at a lower cost.

What is the Effectiveness and Safety of Sildenafil and Viagra?

Are you wondering if sildenafil and Viagra are effective or not? Or maybe you are worried about their safety. Let’s inform you about their effectiveness and safety:

Effectiveness

  • Both sildenafil and Viagra contain the same active ingredient that helps men get and keep erections.
  • So, when taken at the same dose, they are equally effective at treating erectile dysfunction.
  • Numerous studies have proven they work very similarly to improve erection quality and sexual performance.
  • As long as you take the medication as directed, you can expect reliable results from either option.

Safety

  • Sildenafil and Viagra have the same potential side effects since they contain the same essential compound.
  • Common side effects include headaches, flushing, indigestion, and stuffy/runny nose.
  • More severe side effects include vision/hearing problems, which are rare.
  • It’s essential not to take either if you are also taking nitrate drugs for chest pain/heart issues.
  • Both should be used with caution if you have certain health conditions like heart disease, high/low blood pressure, etc.
Overall, you can feel confident that generic sildenafil works just as well as the brand Viagra when dosed appropriately. They have virtually identical safety profiles, too. The biggest differences are cost, brand recognition, and some minor variations in dosage strengths or pill appearance/colors. But from an effectiveness and side effect perspective, these two medications perform in essentially the same way when treating ED.

How to Choose Between Sildenafil and Viagra?

Are you still confused about which one to choose between Viagra and Sildenafil? Consider the following factors before making your choice:
  • Cost: Sildenafil is much cheaper than the generic version.
  • Brand Recognition: Some prefer the brand name familiarity of Viagra.
  • Availability: Sildenafil may be easier to get from online suppliers.
  • Dosing Options: Sildenafil has some additional dosage strengths.
  • Appearance: Viagra is the famous blue pill, and sildenafil pills vary.
  • Effectiveness: Both work equally well when taken at proper doses.
  • Safety: They have the same potential side effects.
  • Personal Preference: Choose based on your priorities, like cost vs brand.
  • Doctor Guidance: Discuss with your doctor to get personalised advice.
The main factors will be whether cost or brand reputation is more important to you, combined with convenience considerations like dosing options and availability. However, you can expect similar performance from a clinical effectiveness and safety perspective.

Final Thoughts

Sildenafil and Viagra are two available options for treating erectile dysfunction, with sildenafil being the generic version of Viagra’s brand-name drug. While they contain the same core active ingredient and are equally effective, sildenafil is typically more affordable, whereas Viagra offers brand recognition. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal priorities like cost versus brand preference and factors like dosage options and availability. No matter which you choose, consulting your doctor ensures you get the right treatment for your needs.