Is Generic Viagra as Effective as the Brand? - BuzzRx
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition that affects approximately 30 million men in the United States. When Viagra was first approved as the leading oral medication for erectile dysfunction in the late nineties, it became a groundbreaking solution for men suffering from various forms of sexual dysfunction. Today, thanks to advances in medical science and research, you may have encountered television advertisements not only for Viagra but also for a variety of other medications that effectively treat ED, including the generic version of Viagra. If you have a family member or friend using Viagra, or have been conducting your own research about this medication for personal use, you might be pondering whether the more affordable generic Viagra is equally effective as its brand-name counterpart. Even though both forms contain the same active ingredient, sildenafil, there might be additional side effects or precautions that you need to consider. Some individuals express skepticism about generic Viagra due to its lower price point. Today, we will comprehensively explore the differences between generic Viagra (sildenafil) and the branded medication—looking into effectiveness, safety, costs, and more.
How Does Viagra or Generic Sildenafil Citrate Treat Erectile Dysfunction?
Viagra (generic: sildenafil) is an FDA-approved oral medication designed to treat erectile dysfunction. Both Viagra and other ED medications like Cialis belong to a class of drugs known as PDE5 (phosphodiesterase type 5) inhibitors. These medications function by blocking the action of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5). This action promotes the effects of a natural chemical called nitric oxide during sexual stimulation, which in turn helps to relax the smooth muscles in the penis and facilitates increased blood flow to the organ's blood vessels, ultimately resulting in an erection. Furthermore, it's worth noting that sildenafil does have other medical applications, such as being utilized to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs).
For optimal effectiveness, Viagra and generic sildenafil should typically be taken 30 minutes to 4 hours before anticipated sexual activity. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended dosage and not exceed one Viagra pill within a single day. Keep in mind that the medication only functions under conditions of sexual arousal.
Does Sildenafil Keep You Hard After Ejaculation?
Both brand-name Viagra and generic sildenafil tablets are specifically designed to assist men in achieving and maintaining an erection during sexual intercourse. However, strictly speaking, sildenafil does not maintain an erection after ejaculation. Similarly, it will not induce an erection if there is no sexual arousal. Interestingly, research has indicated that sildenafil can reduce the refractory period for erections, allowing men to achieve rigidity again approximately 4-5 times sooner after ejaculation than they might otherwise.
What Is the Difference Between Generic Viagra and Sildenafil?
While the brand-name drug, Viagra, is known as the iconic little blue pill, the generic medication (sildenafil citrate) presents itself as a little white pill. Both Viagra and the generic form contain the same active ingredient. Importantly, sildenafil (generic Viagra) functions with the same efficacy and safety profile as Viagra. The primary distinction lies in the typically lower price tag of the generic formulation, which is common for generic medications.
On average, a single tablet of brand-name Viagra can cost around $75, whereas generic Viagra can be as affordable as $3 per pill. This significant price reduction is attributed to the expiration of Pfizer’s patent in 2012, which allowed various pharmaceutical companies to produce the generic version and offer it at competitive prices.
Does Brand-Name Viagra Work Better Than the Generic?
In terms of effectiveness, both brand-name Viagra and generic Viagra are equally effective in treating erectile dysfunction. They both contain the identical active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, and are chemically identical medications. Thus, there is no clinical evidence to suggest that branded Viagra performs better than its generic version.
While branded Viagra benefits from extensive advertising and distinct packaging, these factors do not enhance its pharmacological effectiveness. Taking generic Viagra yields results comparable to those of the brand-name drug. This equivalence extends to other ED medications, such as both generic and brand-name Cialis.
Is Generic Viagra Safe?
Absolutely, generic Viagra (sildenafil) is deemed safe. The FDA mandates that manufacturers produce generic drugs that must operate the same way and deliver the same clinical benefits as their branded counterparts. Consequently, generic Viagra contains the same active ingredient and is equivalent in terms of safety, quality, dosage, strength, and effectiveness when it comes to treating erectile dysfunction.
My Doctor Prescribed Me Generic Viagra — How Do I Make the Most Out of It?
If you are considering or currently using Viagra or its generic form, here are some best practice tips to maximize benefits:
Discuss ED Treatment with Your Healthcare Provider
As with any medication, it’s imperative to take Viagra, its generic variant, or any other ED medication precisely as prescribed and heed medical advice from your healthcare provider. This approach ensures that Viagra (sildenafil) is a suitable choice for your circumstances. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your medical history, clarify potential side effects, and ascertain that there are no critical interactions with your current medications.
Compare Viagra to Other ED Medications
Your doctor may propose a medication alternative to Viagra based on your medical history and lifestyle factors. Other prescription ED treatments are also FDA-approved and may yield results more quickly or, in particular cases, more slowly than Viagra. Differences in duration of effectiveness vary by medication; for instance, avanafil (Stendra) and tadalafil may produce results in as little as 15-30 minutes, but tadalafil (Cialis) can remain effective in your system for at least three times longer than avanafil.
Understand How Sildenafil Works
Clinical research has demonstrated that both Viagra and generic sildenafil can effectively treat erectile dysfunction if you adhere to the following practices:
- Consult with your healthcare professional to find the most suitable sildenafil dosage for you. Available dosages include 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.
- Take the pill 30 minutes to 4 hours before engaging in sexual activity.
- Ensure you are in the mood for intimacy, as both branded Viagra and generic sildenafil only take effect during sexual arousal.
- Consume a light meal prior to using either form of the medication; a high-fat meal may delay the absorption of the active ingredient and diminish Viagra's effectiveness.
- Avoid alcohol consumption after taking Viagra and generic sildenafil, as the combination can lead to side effects like low blood pressure, potentially causing symptoms such as dizziness, vision changes, fainting, and headaches.
Do Not Buy Generic Viagra Online
Keep in mind that Viagra is strictly a prescription medication. Although it might be available at lower prices without a prescription from various online pharmacies, this practice can be extremely risky. Counterfeit Viagra pills can be exceedingly dangerous—they might be expired, diluted, or contain harmful ingredients. It is always best to acquire ED medications like Viagra from your local pharmacy or a certified online pharmacy.
References:
- https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/erectile-dysfunction/definition-facts
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/020895s033lbl.pdf
- https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/15/1/131/702038?login=false