Viagra® vs. Sildenafil: What's the Difference?

If you’ve conducted a search for information regarding erectile dysfunction (ED) medications, you have likely come across Viagra® and a generic medication known as sildenafil. The frequent use of these terms interchangeably may leave you pondering whether there are any significant distinctions when it comes to sildenafil versus Viagra.

In the simplest terms, Viagra is the FDA-approved brand-name formulation of sildenafil, which serves as a prescription treatment specifically for erectile dysfunction. The primary active component in Viagra is sildenafil itself. Similar to how a generic grocery store brand of salad dressing may be made with identical ingredients as its branded counterpart, sildenafil provides a comparable therapeutic effect to the so-called “little blue pill,” but at a more economical price point.

So, is sildenafil considered to be the same as Viagra? The answer is yes, but with some noteworthy differences that merit discussion. Continue reading for an in-depth exploration of both medications, their similarities, distinctions, and guidance on determining the optimal option for your specific needs.

Sildenafil citrate, often abbreviated to “sildenafil,” is the active ingredient found in Viagra. Following the expiration of Pfizer’s exclusive patent on sildenafil, other pharmaceutical manufacturers gained approval to produce generic versions of Viagra, marketed under the name of its active ingredient, sildenafil. The terms are largely interchangeable, akin to how one might refer to “Kleenex®” when discussing tissues. The primary variation between these two medications for treating erectile dysfunction is their cost, which can vary significantly.

Viagra® has established itself as a highly recognized medication for addressing erectile dysfunction (ED), a prevalent form of sexual dysfunction affecting individuals worldwide. Formulated in the trademark design of the small blue pill, Viagra boasts a long-standing history as the first FDA-approved oral treatment for erectile dysfunction available on the market. Both generic sildenafil and Viagra function by enhancing blood flow to the penis, making it easier for users to achieve and sustain an erection.

Sildenafil is classified as a member of the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors) group of medications. Like other drugs in this category, sildenafil operates by relaxing the muscle tissue found within the walls of blood vessels, allowing these vessels to expand and significantly enhance blood circulation throughout various areas of the body, particularly the penis.

It is crucial to note that while these medications can be effective, they are not magic solutions. Their efficacy is contingent upon the presence of sexual stimulation. However, if sexual arousal is present alongside the intake of these pills, research indicates that they constitute a dependable and efficient method of treating erectile dysfunction.

A Brief History of Viagra vs. Sildenafil

If you’re interested in the historical context surrounding both the brand and generic nomenclatures, here’s a concise overview:

• In 1996, Pfizer acquired a patent for sildenafil.

• Two years of extensive clinical trials later, in March of 1998, this novel medication, now known as Viagra, received approval from the Food and Drug Administration and was introduced to the market as a prescription treatment for erectile dysfunction.

• Upon its introduction as the first oral medication for ED, Viagra experienced meteoric success, bolstered by extensive television advertising campaigns that popularized the little blue pill.

• In 2005, the FDA approved sildenafil under the brand name Revatio® for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, a topic we will elaborate on shortly.

• After the expiration of Pfizer’s patent on Viagra in 2012 for countries beyond the United States, other companies became eligible to manufacture and market their own formulations of generic Viagra containing sildenafil.

• While Pfizer sought to contest the expired patent within the United States, sildenafil has since become broadly accessible in its generic form, produced and marketed by various pharmaceutical companies.

To clarify, Viagra is a brand-name representation of sildenafil that holds FDA approval for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, and sildenafil is the active component found within Viagra. However, the pressing question that many individuals wish to clarify is whether one formulation is superior or safer than the other — in this case, is generic sildenafil as effective for treating ED as Viagra?

While some manufacturers may opt to utilize unique brand names, the majority of generic sildenafil products are simply labeled as “sildenafil.” Regardless of branding differences, they provide identical therapeutic effects, share comparable risk profiles for side effects, and offer the same benefits to users.

The primary differentiating factor between these two options is, quite simply, their price.

In the United States, the cost of a single Viagra tablet can soar up to $70, while generic sildenafil tablets can be procured for as little as $3 each when purchased online.

Even though the active ingredients remain consistent, if you are transitioning from Pfizer’s brand-name Viagra to a generic formulation of sildenafil, it is essential to verify that you are obtaining tablets that match the dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider.

International Generic Viagra Names

Sildenafil may be marketed under various brand names in different countries across the globe. Some of these international names for generic Viagra include:

• Figral and Mazzogran from Mexico

• Fildena from India

When examining medications such as Figral, Mazzogran, and Fildena alongside Viagra, they all serve a common purpose: to promote enhanced blood flow to the penis. Their labels clearly indicate the presence of sildenafil, meaning that Mazzogran sildenafil 100mg should be equivalent to the 100mg formulation of the brand-name Viagra.

Nonetheless, as these drugs may not be produced in the U.S. nor have received FDA clearance, assessing the quality of their ingredients can be more challenging. Each nation enforces its own regulations, and when buying online from international sellers, there remains the risk that the product you acquire may not be authentic.

If you reside in the U.S. and are seeking a cost-effective alternative to Viagra, it is recommended to adhere to FDA-approved sildenafil products.

Viagra is available in three different dosages: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg, with most patients commencing treatment with the 50mg dose.

Your healthcare provider will specify the appropriate dosage of either brand-name Viagra or generic sildenafil for your situation, ensuring that you receive the most effective treatment available.

Since both brand-name Viagra and generic sildenafil encapsulate the exact same active ingredient, you can reasonably anticipate obtaining equivalent results from any 25mg-100mg dose of Viagra (the standard dosages prescribed for erectile dysfunction) as you would from the corresponding dose of generic sildenafil.

Both options yield optimal results when taken 30 minutes to an hour prior to planned sexual activity (but no later than four hours before). You can ingest either Viagra or generic sildenafil with or without food; however, it is advisable to refrain from taking them with heavy meals, as this may prolong the time required for these medications to take effect.

If you do not observe any improvements in your erectile function after utilizing Viagra or generic sildenafil, it is vital not to simply increase your dosage without consulting a professional. Instead, communicate with your healthcare provider — they may wish to adjust your prescribed dosage or explore alternative ED treatment options. Though sildenafil shares similarities with other PDE5 inhibitors like vardenafil (Levitra), notable differences exist in dosing. For instance, vardenafil operates with lower dosage requirements, although it is not necessarily more potent than Viagra.

Since both brand-name Viagra and its generic counterpart sildenafil contain the identical active ingredient, they share a comprehensive range of potential side effects. The side effects associated with these medications can be classified into two categories: common and rare. Additionally, we will cover critical drug interaction risks that should be avoided, and which you must disclose to your healthcare provider before starting sildenafil.

Common Side Effects of Viagra and Sildenafil

Some common side effects associated with Viagra and generic sildenafil use include:

• Heartburn

• Indigestion

• Headache

• Nosebleeds

• Nasal congestion

• Flushing

• Diarrhea

• Muscle aches and back pain

• Increased sensitivity to light

• Alterations in color perception, such as a noticeable blue tint or difficulty discerning between the colors blue and green

Most of these side effects will typically resolve on their own as the medication is eliminated from your system.

Rare Side Effects of Viagra and Sildenafil

In less common instances, Viagra and generic sildenafil may provoke serious side effects, including:

• Priapism (a prolonged and frequently painful erection lasting longer than four hours)

• Sudden onset of blurred vision

• Loss of vision

• Loss of hearing

• Lightheadedness and dizziness (usually linked to low blood pressure, especially in conjunction with other medications)

Should you experience any of these severe side effects, it is imperative to seek medical attention without delay.

Viagra and Sildenafil Drug Interactions

Both Viagra and generic sildenafil can interact with various medications, including alpha-blockers, nitrates, and other drugs that treat hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, and additional cardiovascular conditions.

For this reason, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are currently taking, along with any cardiovascular issues you have faced previously, such as angina, chest pain, or heart attacks.

For a more comprehensive examination of Viagra (sildenafil) side effects, as well as potential interactions, you can refer to our complete guide on the topic.

Aside from minor variations in packaging and pill appearance, brand-name Viagra and its generic equivalent sildenafil are fundamentally identical medications. 

If you are dealing with erectile dysfunction, both options should provide a significant enhancement to your sexual experiences by improving your erections and overall sexual performance. As previously mentioned, the primary distinction between these two medications lies in their price point. While Viagra tends to carry a higher cost, generic sildenafil tablets can be obtained at a much more reasonable expense.

In addition to sildenafil and Viagra, Hims also provides access to a range of other proven medications for erectile dysfunction accessible online, including:

• Tadalafil (Cialis®): Tadalafil (Cialis) can deliver relief from erectile dysfunction symptoms for up to 36 hours per individual dose.

• Vardenafil (Levitra®): Vardenafil (Levitra): Offers slightly longer-lasting relief from erectile dysfunction compared to sildenafil.

• Chewable ED medications: Hard Mints come in a discreet package and are crafted with the same active ingredients as Viagra® and Cialis® at different dosages for your convenience.

For further insights into these medications, you can consult our comprehensive guide detailing the best options for erectile dysfunction treatment or conveniently access FDA-approved ED medications through Hims online. Consider scheduling a consultation with a healthcare professional today.