Generic Viagra (sildenafil): What to know right now

Generic Viagra is simply sildenafil — the same active drug found in brand-name Viagra but usually much cheaper. If you're thinking about trying it, this page walks you through how it works, when to take it, common side effects, and how to buy safely online without getting scammed.

How generic Viagra works & dosing

Sildenafil helps erections by increasing blood flow to the penis when you're sexually aroused. It won’t cause arousal on its own. Typical doses are 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg. Most people start at 50 mg; your doctor may recommend lowering to 25 mg or raising to 100 mg based on how you respond and any side effects.

Take it about 30–60 minutes before sex. If you eat a heavy or high-fat meal, it can slow the effect, so try taking it on a lighter stomach for faster action. Effects usually last around 4–6 hours, though that doesn’t mean continuous erection for that whole time — just that a response is possible during that window.

Common side effects: headache, flushing, nasal congestion, upset stomach, and changes in vision (blue tinge or blurred sight). Serious but rare issues include sudden chest pain, sudden vision or hearing loss, or a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism). If any of those happen, seek emergency care.

Buying safely & practical tips

Buy from licensed pharmacies. Look for a visible pharmacy license, clear contact info, and secure checkout (https). If a site sells prescription drugs without asking for a prescription or offers unbelievably low prices, be cautious — counterfeit meds are common.

Telemedicine services tied to pharmacies are a safe option: you answer health questions online, a clinician approves a prescription if appropriate, and the pharmacy ships the drug. Check user reviews, look for pharmacy accreditation (where applicable), and confirm the pills are labeled as sildenafil citrate and include dosage markings.

Avoid mixing sildenafil with nitrates (often used for chest pain) — this combo can dangerously lower blood pressure. Also be careful with alpha-blockers for prostate issues and some heart meds. Grapefruit juice and heavy alcohol can change how the drug works. Talk to your doctor about all your meds before starting sildenafil.

Alternatives include tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra). Each has different timing and duration — discuss options with your clinician to pick what fits your lifestyle. Simple lifestyle changes — losing weight, quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, and treating diabetes or high blood pressure — can also improve erections.

If you want help finding a safe pharmacy or comparing generic options, we have guides and reviews across the site. Ask your doctor if sildenafil is right for you; it’s effective for many people, but safety comes first.