What is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil citrate is the generic version of the Viagra, the most well known treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED).
Sildenafil is an effective, modern medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). When you take Sildenafil you may be able to:
- Improve your ability to get and maintain an erection
- Be more confident in your ability to get and maintain an erection
- Be satisfied with the hardness of your erections
What is the difference between Viagra and Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra and is available in a generic, unbranded tablet. Sildenafil and Viagra are medically equivalent but Sildenafil is available at a much lower cost. Generic medicines contain the same active ingredient and are equally effective and medically equivalent as the branded products but are available at a lower price. Generic manufacturers have to demonstrate that they are medically identical to the branded product - i.e. they offer the same quality, strength, stability and effectiveness.
Choosing the Correct Dosage
The recommended starting dose for sildenafil is one 50mg tablet taken 1 hour before sexual activity. If you achieve the desired effect but are suffering from side effects, try lowering the dose to 25mg. If after trying 50mg tablets four times without the desired effect, and you are not experiencing side effects, increase the dose to 100mg. If after trying 100mg 8 separate times without effect you should cease treatment and consult your doctor. You should not take sildenafil more than once a day as this will have not increase the effectiveness and may increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects.
How To Take
You should take Sildenafil about one hour before you plan to have sex. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Sildenafil can be taken with or without food. However, you may find that Sildenafil takes longer to start working if you take it with a heavy meal.
Why is the Price of Sildenafil Lower Than Viagra?
As Sildenafil is a generic drug it is produced by several manufacturers, which helps to lower the price. Viagra is produced only by Pfizer who set the price. The two products are medically identical but because of the brand name of Viagra the product sells at a substantial premium.
Common Side Effects
- pain in your back/muscles/head
- migraines
- getting flushed/going red
- indigestion
- feeling and or being sick
- getting a blocked or runny nose
- vision disturbances
Alternatives to Sildenafil
Counselling
For many men suffering from erectile dysfunction the primary cause may be related to psychological issues and not physical ones. In these cases, counselling can prove to be a very effective form of treatment. Talking with a mental health professional will help to address issues of stress, anxiety or depression, which can all contribute to erectile dysfunction. For further information contact your GP.
Other ED Medications
We offer a range of ED medications.