Generic Viagra (sildenafil): clear facts for smart choices

Generic Viagra contains sildenafil — the same active drug as the brand-name pill. It treats erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis when you’re sexually aroused. The main benefits most people notice are lower cost and the same effect as brand-name Viagra when the product is genuine.

How it works and simple dosing info

Sildenafil blocks an enzyme called PDE5. That relaxes blood vessels in the penis and helps you get and keep an erection during sexual stimulation. Typical doses are 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg. Most people try 50 mg first, taken 30–60 minutes before sex. The effect can last up to four hours, though it’s strongest in the first two.

Don’t take more than one dose a day. If 50 mg causes bad side effects, try 25 mg. If 50 mg doesn’t work after a few attempts, a doctor might suggest 100 mg. Always follow a healthcare professional’s advice rather than guessing your dose.

Safety, side effects, and buying tips

Common side effects include headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal stuffiness, and mild vision changes. Serious but rare problems are sudden vision or hearing loss and priapism (an erection lasting more than four hours). If that happens, get emergency care.

Never mix sildenafil with nitrates (often prescribed for chest pain). That combo can drop blood pressure dangerously. Tell your doctor if you take alpha-blockers, some blood pressure meds, or strong antifungal or antibiotic drugs — interactions matter. Avoid high amounts of alcohol before taking sildenafil; it can blunt the effect and raise side effects.

For buying, use licensed pharmacies only. If you buy online, check for a real pharmacy address, phone number, and verified reviews. Reputable sites require a prescription or offer a telehealth consult that produces one. Watch out for prices that look too good to be true, medicines shipped from unknown countries, or pills that look different from verified images.

If you prefer in-person care, your GP or a urologist can prescribe sildenafil and check for safety risks like heart disease. Telehealth services also let you get a prescription after a short online consult — that can be faster but still safe when the platform is legitimate.

Not sure which drug fits you best? Alternatives include tadalafil (Cialis) for longer-lasting effect and vardenafil (Levitra) with a similar onset to sildenafil. Some people try lifestyle changes first — exercise, losing weight, cutting smoking — because those can improve erectile function too.

Want more guides? Read our articles on buying meds online safely, comparing ED drugs, and tips for managing side effects. Ask your doctor about interactions and whether sildenafil is safe given your health and other meds. That quick step keeps treatment effective and lowers risk.