Sildenafil (Viagra Generic)

Date: november 12, 2024
By Dr. Thomas Holden, MD
Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven J. Soule, MD

Sildenafil is the generic version sold under the brand name Viagra, taken to help increase blood flow for erectile dysfunction treatment. It is also approved for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension under the brand name Revatio. Sildenafil is administered in oral tablet form and is typically taken by mouth, though in certain medical settings, it may also be given intravenously.

Medical Uses

Sildenafil is primarily prescribed for:

Erectile Dysfunction (ED). Sildenafil is widely used to treat ED by enhancing blood flow, helping men achieve and maintain a firm response to sexual stimulation. Clinical trials have shown it has a success rate of 70-85% in improving ED symptoms, making it a highly effective option for millions of men globally.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). Marketed under the brand name Revatio when used for PAH, Sildenafil helps manage this rare lung condition by relaxing blood vessels, reducing arterial pressure, and improving exercise tolerance. PAH treatment typically requires different dosing and usage guidelines compared to ED.
Off-label Use for Raynaud’s Phenomenon. In some cases, doctors prescribe Sildenafil off-label for Raynaud’s Phenomenon, a condition that restricts blood flow to the fingers and toes in response to cold or stress. The vasodilation effect of Sildenafil can help alleviate these symptoms by promoting blood flow.

What is Viagra?

Viagra, the brand name for Sildenafil, was developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer and approved for medical use in 1998. Originally researched for its cardiovascular effects, it was soon discovered to significantly help men with erectile dysfunction (ED), leading to its rapid adoption worldwide. Today, Viagra is included in the treatment guidelines for ED and remains one of the most recognized medications in sexual health. Since the expiration of its patent in 2017, it’s also available as a generic medication under the name Sildenafil, providing a more affordable alternative for patients.

Important Warnings

Heart Condition Warning. In some cases, Sildenafil may impact blood pressure, and caution is advised for individuals with heart conditions. If you have any history of cardiovascular issues, such as heart disease, heart rhythm problems, or angina, speak to your doctor before taking Sildenafil. Combining it with certain medications, such as nitrates commonly prescribed for chest pain, can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure that could be life-threatening. Be sure to provide a full list of all medications and supplements to your doctor to avoid any harmful interactions.
Vision and Hearing Warning. Sildenafil can occasionally cause sudden vision or hearing changes. Rarely, it may lead to sudden vision loss due to a condition known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This is more likely if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of eye disorders. Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears may also occur. If you notice any abrupt changes in vision or hearing, seek immediate medical attention.
Priapism Warning. One serious side effect of Sildenafil is priapism, a prolonged and painful erection lasting more than four hours. Priapism is a medical emergency; if left untreated, it can cause lasting damage. If you experience an erection that persists for several hours, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Liver and Kidney Function Warning. In rare cases, Sildenafil may impact liver or kidney function, especially in those with preexisting conditions. Individuals with liver or kidney diseases may process the drug more slowly, increasing the risk of side effects. Doctors may recommend lower doses or monitor organ function during use to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Blood Pressure Warning. Sildenafil is known to lower blood pressure temporarily, and individuals with low blood pressure or those taking medications that impact blood pressure should exercise caution. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and report any symptoms of low blood pressure, such as dizziness, fainting, or unusual fatigue.

What is the Cost of Viagra Generic Via Telemedicine Services?

Telemedicine services refer to online healthcare platforms that allow patients to consult with licensed medical providers remotely, receive prescriptions, and, in many cases, have medications delivered directly to their doorsteps. These services provide a convenient, discreet way to access medications like Sildenafil and Viagra, bypassing the need for in-person doctor visits or traditional pharmacy pickups.

For those exploring telemedicine options for Sildenafil, understanding the real cost structure is essential to avoid overpaying or encountering hidden fees. Pricing varies widely, but with careful attention to specifics, you can find affordable and reliable options.

Name of the service	Dosages	Price (per item)
RedBox	50mg, 100mg	from $1.24
Hims	25mg, 50mg, 100mg	from $1.56
GoodRx	20mg, 50mg, 100mg	from $1.18
Lemonaid	100mg	from $3.44

Sildenafil generic generally ranges from $1.1 to $5.7 per tablet through telemedicine services, depending on factors like dosage, quantity, and the platform’s pricing model. Some platforms include consultation fees within the total price, which can significantly impact the cost. For example, a 50mg tablet might cost around $4 per unit when bundled with a consultation fee of approximately $20-$40. Subscription models are also popular, offering recurring orders at reduced prices per tablet, sometimes as low as $2 for bulk purchases.

For greater clarity, St. Johns Medical Center provides a comparison of consultation fees across various services, along with details on whether each platform offers service and delivery in all states or has specific restrictions.

Name of the service	Consultation Fees	State Availability
RedBox	Free	Services are available nationwide, with free shipping in discreet packaging
Hims	Includes the cost in the pricing	Operates in all 50 states, offering free shipping
GoodRx	Does not offer	Discounts are applicable nationwide at participating pharmacies
Lemonaid	from $25	Services are available in most states, with exceptions including Kansas, New Jersey, and Texas.

It’s worth noting that single-tablet purchases are generally more expensive per unit compared to bulk orders. Services like RedBox, Lemonaid, and others often price individual tablets higher, while offering discounts of 30% or more for orders over 10 tablets. Additionally, bundled shipping and consultation fees are common, and reviewing these details is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.

An informed approach includes checking the platform’s licensing and cost breakdowns. Choosing a regulated, well-reviewed telemedicine service can ensure you’re getting authentic, safe medication at fair prices.

How to Avoid Fake Generic Versions

Counterfeit medications are widespread online, and Sildenafil generic isn’t an exception. Fake products might include incorrect ingredients or improper dosages, which leads to ineffectiveness or even serious health risks. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to avoid counterfeits.

First, verify the source. Buy medications only from licensed pharmacies or online platforms accredited by national or international regulatory bodies, such as the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) or Pharmacy Checker. Certified platforms typically display their accreditations, which you can double-check on these organizations’ websites to ensure authenticity. As a rule, you’ll find this information at the bottom of the site (in the footer) or on the “About” page.
Second, look closely at the packaging and labeling. Real generics have professionally done, consistent packaging with precise details on the active ingredient dosage, manufacturer information, and expiration date. Generic packaging can look different but must still be complete and clear. If any of this information is missing, it’s a strong indicator of a fake, as authentic manufacturers follow strict labeling standards.
Price can also reveal a lot. Generic versions of Viagra are indeed cheaper than the original but aren’t sold at rock-bottom prices. As noted by the FDA, extremely low prices are often a sign of counterfeits. Watch out for discounts that make the cost unusually low – this tactic is frequently used by counterfeit sellers to draw buyers in.
Fourth, pay attention to the website’s URL (the www… address) you’re using. Scammers increasingly attempt to hack medical sites to sell Sildenafil under the guise of an official pharmacy or telemedicine provider.
Fifth, be cautious of non-standard or overly high dosages. Unusual dosages can be a warning sign, as they often don’t exist for legitimate products.

By following these steps, you’ll be better protected from counterfeit products that could seriously harm your health.

Precautions and Possible Side Effects

Here’s an in-depth look at key factors to keep in mind.

Important Precautions

Before starting Sildenafil, inform your healthcare provider of your full medical history and any current medications. This drug can have severe interactions with nitrates, often used for heart conditions, leading to dangerously low blood pressure levels. Combining Sildenafil with alpha-blockers, blood pressure medications, antifungals, and certain antibiotics may also cause harmful reactions.

Not all patients are candidates for Sildenafil. Men with significant cardiovascular conditions, recent stroke, severe liver or kidney disease, or blood pressure irregularities should typically avoid this medication. Another critical point: those with rare eye disorders, like retinitis pigmentosa, should not take Sildenafil due to the risk of exacerbating visual issues.

Also, drinking alcohol while using Sildenafil increases the risk of adverse reactions, particularly dizziness and fainting. Limit alcohol intake to prevent unwanted effects.

Potential Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, Sildenafil can lead to specific side effects, some more common than others. Among the most reported are headaches, facial flushing, and nasal congestion, typically mild and temporary as the body adjusts to the medication.

Other side effects can include dizziness, upset stomach, and visual disturbances (like blurred vision or altered color perception). While these are often temporary, if they persist, speak with a healthcare provider. Rare but serious effects may include sudden loss of vision or hearing. Additionally, in extremely rare cases, men may experience priapism, a prolonged and painful erection lasting over four hours, which requires urgent medical intervention to prevent permanent damage.

The standard recommendation is to follow dosage instructions precisely and report any unusual side effects to a healthcare professional. This approach minimizes risk, helping ensure that you’re receiving the intended benefits of Sildenafil while staying alert to potential issues.

Disclaimer

St. John’s Medical Center strives to ensure all information provided is accurate, complete, and up to date. However, this article is not a substitute for the guidance of a licensed healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider before starting any medication. Information here may change over time and does not include all possible uses, instructions, precautions, interactions, or potential side effects.