What Is Viagra Generic?
Viagra generic is a prescription medication whose active ingredient is sildenafil citrate. The same compound that gives branded Viagra its effect is used in the generic version, but without the brand‑name markup. It falls under the class of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and works by relaxing smooth muscle in the penile vasculature.
When a man experiences erectile dysfunction (ED), sexual stimulation triggers nitric oxide release. Nitric oxide raises cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which keeps blood vessels dilated. PDE5 normally breaks down cGMP, shortening the erection. Sildenafil blocks this enzyme, allowing cGMP to accumulate and prolong vasodilation.
Manufacturers of generic sildenafil in the UK include several licensed pharmacies that source the drug from GMP‑certified suppliers. The product is regulated by the MHRA and must meet the same safety standards as its branded counterpart.
Forms and Dosages
Available Formats
The generic form is sold exclusively as tablets; capsules and injections are not marketed for ED in the UK. Tablets come in a range of strengths to accommodate different patient needs.
- 25 mg – suitable for men who respond well to low doses or who are older/with comorbidities.
- 50 mg – standard starting dose for most patients.
- 100 mg – used when lower strengths fail to produce satisfactory erections.
Each tablet is scored, allowing it to be split in half if a patient requires a lower dose or wishes to stretch supply. However, splitting should be done only after consulting a pharmacist, as uneven division can affect efficacy.
How Each Is Taken
The tablets are taken orally with water, preferably 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. Food does not interfere significantly but high‑fat meals may delay onset to 90 minutes. The drug’s effect lasts up to four hours; it is not a “take‑as‑needed” pill in the sense of an instant cure – rather, it provides a window during which normal arousal can trigger an erection.
Patients should not exceed one dose per 24 hours and must adhere to the maximum daily limit of 100 mg. If a dose is missed, simply skip it; do not double up on the next scheduled dose.
Who Can Take It?
Viagra generic is approved for adult males aged 18 years and older who have been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction by a qualified clinician. The medication is not indicated for women or children.
Elderly patients (over 65) should start at the lowest dose due to increased sensitivity to side effects. Individuals on nitrates, certain anti‑arrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone), or with severe liver impairment require special caution or may be contraindicated.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are not relevant as the drug is male‑specific; however, men should inform their partners of potential side effects that could affect sexual activity.
How to Take Viagra Generic
Take one tablet 30–60 minutes before planned intercourse. If you’re on a meal schedule, avoid heavy or fatty foods within an hour of taking the drug; this will minimise delay in onset.
- Timing: 30‑60 min pre‑sex; effect lasts up to four hours.
- Frequency: Not more than once per day.
- Duration of treatment: Can be used intermittently or daily, depending on physician advice.
- Missed dose: Skip it; do not double up later.
How It Works
Sildenafil blocks PDE5, an enzyme that degrades cGMP. By preserving cGMP levels in the corpus cavernosum, the drug allows blood to flow into the penis when sexual arousal triggers nitric oxide release. The result is a temporary, reversible erection sufficient for intercourse.
Contraindications
- Concurrent use of nitrates or nitrites (e.g., for chest pain).
- Severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or recent myocardial infarction.
- Known hypersensitivity to sildenafil or any excipient in the formulation.
- Advanced hepatic impairment; patients with cirrhosis should avoid use.
- Recent retinal artery occlusion (due to potential visual side effects).
Interactions
Drug‑drug and drug‑food interactions can reduce efficacy or increase adverse events. Key points include:
- Grapefruit juice: Inhibits CYP3A4, raising sildenafil levels.
- Alcohol: May enhance hypotensive effects; moderate consumption only.
- NSAIDs and anticoagulants (warfarin): Increase bleeding risk when combined with sildenafil.
- Ritonavir, indinavir, or other protease inhibitors: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors; avoid simultaneous use.
- PDE5 inhibitors (Cialis, Levitra): Not recommended together due to additive effects.
Side Effects
The most common adverse events are:
- Headache, flushing, dyspepsia, nasal congestion.
- Visual disturbances (blue‑tinged vision, glare).
- Dizziness or fainting episodes.
Less common but noteworthy effects include priapism (painful erection >4 h), hypotension, and transient hearing loss. If any of these occur, seek medical attention promptly.
Overdose Risks
An accidental intake of more than 100 mg in a 24‑hour period can precipitate severe hypotension, prolonged priapism, or cardiac arrhythmias. Symptoms to watch for: chest pain, fainting, excessive dizziness, vision loss. In such cases, call emergency services immediately and inform the attending clinician of the dose taken.
Price and Availability
Generic sildenafil prices vary by strength and quantity:
| Strength | 4 tablets | 8 tablets | 16 tablets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 mg | £4.20 | £8.00 | £14.70 |
| 50 mg | £5.95 | £11.20 | £19.90 |
| 100 mg | £6.80 | £12.50 | £23.20 |
Factors influencing cost include prescription fee (£1–4 depending on order value), delivery charge (typically £2.90–£3.20 for Royal Mail Tracked 24), and whether the purchase is made in a retail pharmacy or online.
Buying Drugs without Prescription Info (UK)
Viagra generic is a prescription‑only medicine; it cannot be bought over the counter. However, you can purchase it from reputable online pharmacies such as Viagra Original and have it delivered within the UK. However, legitimate online pharmacies such as Medicade accept an electronic prescription and deliver within the UK.
| City | Estimated Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| London | 2–3 working days |
| Manchester | 3–4 working days |
| Birmingham | 3–5 working days |
| Glasgow | 4–6 working days |
Alternatives
Pharmaceutical alternatives include:
- Cialis (tadalafil) – longer duration (up to 36 h) but requires daily use for consistent effect.
- Levitra (vardenafil) – similar onset to sildenafil, slightly better visual side‑effect profile.
Natural options such as ginseng, L‑arginine, or yohimbine have limited evidence and variable potency. They may interact with PDE5 inhibitors or cause unwanted side effects like hypertension.
Precautions
- Dietary restrictions: Avoid high‑fat meals close to dosing; limit alcohol.
- Storage: Keep at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
- Doctor consultation: Discuss any heart conditions, liver disease, or concurrent medications before starting therapy.
FAQ
Q: Can I take Viagra generic with a glass of wine?
A: Moderate alcohol is generally tolerated but may lower blood pressure. Heavy drinking should be avoided during treatment.
Q: How long does the effect last?
A: Up to four hours, though sexual stimulation is required for efficacy.
Q: Is it safe for men with hypertension?
A: If blood pressure is well‑controlled and no nitrates are used, sildenafil can be prescribed safely under medical supervision.
Reviewed by a Medical Professional
Isabel D White, MD, PhD – Clinical Pharmacology Specialist
