Since its introduction in 1998, Viagra Sildenafil has been heralded as a game-changer in the world of medicine and is still among the top three best-selling pharmaceutical products globally. The active ingredient in this well-known ED drug is Sildenafil (viagra). Sildenafil is a vasodilator that works by relaxing the muscles in the blood vessels so that blood can flow more freely. Because of this property, Sildenafil is often referred to as a ‘statutory’ or ‘viagra-like’ drug, although it should be noted that it is not identical to the real thing.
There is a lot of confusion surrounding the two in relation to what sets them apart, and how they compare in terms of efficacy and safety. Several factors contribute to this, including the fact that both have the same appearance and are often sold in the same stores, but with different potency levels. To help you understand the differences between these two popular prescription medications, let’s examine their properties and how they work together to form an overall therapeutic effect.
Key Facts About Sildenafil And Generic Viagra
Before we begin, it’s important to note that Sildenafil and generic Viagra are both safe and effective medications. As mentioned, both are vasodilators, but they work in different ways. Sildenafil selectively relaxes and expands blood vessels, while generic Viagra affects all parts of the body in a similar fashion.
Sildenafil is a prescription drug that can be purchased over the counter, while generic Viagra, which is identical to the brand drug, is available without a prescription. The key difference between the two is their dose and how long they need to be taken. Sildenafil oral doses range from 50mg to 100mg, taken once or twice a day, and generic Viagra requires a 50mg dose twice a day. Sildenafil also needs to be taken for a shorter duration than generic Viagra, usually no more than 60 minutes, while the extended release form of the drug can be taken up to 12 hours before providing optimal results.
How Do They Work Together?
When taken separately, Sildenafil and generic Viagra are both effective in treating erectile dysfunction (ED) and raised blood pressure. However, when taken together, their properties work in combination to produce an intense and overall positive effect. The result is better ED treatment while also helping to maintain an optimal blood pressure level.
Both Sildenafil and generic Viagra are known to improve erectile function by increasing the blood flow to the penis. However, Sildenafil works in a different way from generic Viagra. Instead of increasing the size of the blood vessels, Sildenafil specifically targets and improves the function of the small blood vessels that feed the penis. This can help to improve the overall rigidity and enlargement of the organ. When taken in combination, Sildenafil and generic Viagra can be more effective than the individual components due to their complementary mechanisms of action.
When To Take Sildenafil And When To Take Generic Viagra
To begin with, it’s important to note that Sildenafil and generic Viagra should not be taken together. If you’re already taking the latter, there is no need to add the former as it may interact with the active ingredient in a potentially harmful way. Simply take your dose of generic Viagra and wait for the effects to occur. There are also some side effects that are more prevalent with Sildenafil, including headaches, flushing, and upset stomach. If you experience any of these effects, discontinue the use of Sildenafil and switch to generic Viagra. If these side effects are bothersome, it’s preferable to take the latter as it has been shown to be less harmful. However, if you are suffering from impotence, hypertension, heart disease, or stroke, then Sildenafil may be the better option.
Which One Is Better?
Based on the above, it’s clear that Sildenafil and generic Viagra differ in a number of critical ways. First, Sildenafil is a prescription drug and has a more restricted availability, while generic Viagra is an over-the-counter medication. Second, Sildenafil needs to be taken for a shorter duration than generic Viagra, usually only once or twice a day, while the latter can be taken at any time. Third, Sildenafil improves the function of the blood vessels in a more specific fashion, while generic Viagra works on all parts of the body in a similar fashion, resulting in a more generalized effect. Finally, Sildenafil can cause more frequent and serious side effects than generic Viagra and should be used cautiously in patients with coronary problems, hypertension, or diabetes.
Because of these differences, it’s important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before making a decision on which one is better suited for your needs. In most cases, an ED medication that contains Sildenafil is preferred over one that contains generic Viagra, as Sildenafil is often considered to be safer and more effective. As already mentioned, both Sildenafil and generic Viagra are proven to be safe and useful medications, but in some cases, particularly in patients with hypertension or heart disease, generic Viagra may be the better option.
It’s also critical to understand that, even though Sildenafil and generic Viagra are both effective and proven to be safe medications, they are not interchangeable. To repeat, Sildenafil and generic Viagra are both proven to be safe and effective, but they work in different ways, and in some cases, may need to be used together (for example, in patients with hypertension or heart disease). Simply taking one without the other may result in adverse (and sometimes serious) effects.
In terms of pricing, Sildenafil is much more expensive than generic Viagra. According to some sources, Sildenafil can cost up to 10 times as much as generic Viagra. If cost is a concern, then generic Viagra is the better option, as it’s likely that insurance coverage will partially or fully cover its costs. However, if money is no object to you, then Sildenafil is your option.
Takeaway
Even though Sildenafil and generic Viagra are both safe and effective medications, their different costs and dosing regimens, as well as the fact that they may be used in combination in some cases, makes it clear that they are not meant to be taken together. If you’re unsure which one is right for you, consult with your doctor or pharmacist for advice on which one is better suited for your needs.