The erectile dysfunction (ED) epidemic that plagues modern society is well-known. Studies show that as many as one in five men could be affected by ED issues. Fortunately, the introduction of generic versions of Viagra has helped to rectify some of these problems.
It is important to note that there are differences between generic and branded versions of the same drug. Even though both are effective in treating ED, patients might not respond the same way to different drugs. This can be because of individual variations or because of the way they are treated by the body. Luckily, now that more options are available, it is easier for men to find the perfect solution to their ED problems.
Generic vs Brand-Name Viagra
Although both of these pills are proven to treat erectile dysfunction, they work in very different ways. One major difference is that generic Viagra does not contain the same active ingredients as the brand-name pill. This means that while generic and branded versions of the same drug both help men with ED, they may not be the same. This is why it is always preferable to consult with a doctor or other medical professional before taking any sort of medication. They can advise you on which medication is right for you based on your personal situation.
Key Differences Between The Two Pills
There are several key differences between the two pills that patients might want to be aware of. These include:
- The ingredients used to create the medication: While both contain sildenafil citrate (SC), a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, generic Viagra does not contain the same flavoring and colorings as the branded variety. These factors can affect how patients perceive and react to the medication. For instance, flavorings such as orange or lemon have been known to improve the effects of certain medications. Also, some people may experience a color shift with generic Viagra whereas others do not experience this issue with branded versions.
- The dose: The recommended dose for generic Viagra is 25 mg. This is half the recommended dose for branded versions. However, some people may require higher or lower doses of the medication based on their body weight or other health factors. It is also possible that the medication may not be effective for a certain group of people due to genetic conditions that affect their bodies’ ability to metabolize or process medication.
- The strength: Most generics are manufactured to be at least as strong as the branded versions. However, this does not mean that they are exact copies of the original product. In some cases, a different manufacturing process or a change in the source of raw materials can affect the chemical composition of the medication and its strength.
- The expiration date: While most generic medications have a shelf life of about three years, branded versions have an expiration date that is usually only twelve months after the manufacturing date.
Why Is It Better To Get Generic Viagra?
If you are looking for the ideal solution to your erectile dysfunction problems, you might want to consider getting a generic version of Viagra. Here are some of the major reasons why this is a good idea.
Efficacy: The evidence clearly shows that generic versions of Viagra are just as effective as the branded versions. Numerous double-blind trials have proven that both are highly effective in treating erectile dysfunction. What’s more, studies have shown that generic versions often work better than their counterparts.
In 2012, the FDA approved five different generic versions of Viagra. Furthermore, four of these medications were shown to be more effective than the branded pill in a double-blind trial. This suggests that while generic and branded versions of the same drug both work, they may not be the same. There is a saying that “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” and in some cases, this can be true. However, if your existing medication is not effective in treating your ED, it may be time to try something new.
Saving Money: One of the major reasons why people are turning to generic versions of Viagra is to save money. Many insurance providers will cover the costs associated with generic medications, and this can help to reduce a person’s out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, since they are usually sold at a cheaper price, getting a generic version of Viagra could end up costing you less money in the long run.
There are several reasons why getting a generic version of Viagra might not be for everyone. For instance, if your doctor has recommended a different solution for you based on your personal situation, it might not be a good idea to switch. Also, people with certain health conditions might not respond well to certain medications or treatments and in some cases, this can be harmful. In these cases, it might be better to try something different than what is marketed under the Viagra brand.