Since its introduction in 1998, the drug Sildenafil (Viagra) has become hugely popular, with over 60 million prescriptions written each year. While effective for treating erectile dysfunction (impotence) in men, the drug has also been linked to more serious side effects.
In light of this, is there a generic version of Viagra that physicians can prescribe for patients? If so, what are the benefits and risks of such a drug?
Generics & Erectile Dysfunction
When discussing the generic form of Viagra, it is important to keep in mind that it is not the same as the original drug. Despite this, both versions of the medication work in a similar manner; they improve blood flow to the penis and enable the individual to achieve an erectile. As a result of this, they can both be considered as a treatment for erectile dysfunction. In fact, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an oral generic equivalent of Viagra in 2014.
While both versions of the drug are effective at treating erectile dysfunction, there are distinct differences between them. Sildenafil is a prescription drug, while a generic version is a manufactured version of the same drug. As such, it is less expensive and requires less regulation. This is also why it has been available for such a long time while the generic form has only recently been approved.
As a result of these differences, individuals who take Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction may experience different side effects than those who take a generic form of the same drug. For this reason, it is always a good idea to consult with a physician before taking any medication, especially drugs that are strong prescription medications like Sildenafil.
How Does Viagra Work?
Viagra improves blood flow to the penis by inhibiting the ability of the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5 to break down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). As a result of this, more blood is diverted to the organ, creating an erection. It is also important to note that while Viagra can be used to treat erectile dysfunction, it is not a hormone and does not cause an erection on its own. Rather, it helps to restore a natural state of erectile function in men who are otherwise healthy.
Interestingly, the drug does not appear to work for everyone. Of the 60 million prescriptions written annually, only about 30% of patients report satisfactory results. This can be somewhat frustrating for those who have tried and failed to find relief with the medication. However, those who do not experience any effect from the drug may continue to try new prescriptions or even take a different approach to achieving an erection. In some cases, a physician may recommend alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as injections or vacuum pumps. However, this will depend on the severity of the disease and individual patient circumstance.
Due to its effectiveness as a treatment for erectile dysfunction, as well as its long-term safety record, Viagra is generally considered to be a “generally accepted medical practice” and is highly prescribed around the world.
Risks Of Taking Viagra
While the benefits of Viagra are widely known and accepted, it is also important to consider its risks. In particular, as mentioned above, the drug can have serious side effects. Some of these risks are:
- headache
- dizziness
- abdominal pain
- stomach pain
- indigestion
- dyspepsia (indigestion)
- fainting
- breathing difficulties
- nasal discomfort
- psychiatric disturbances
In addition to these risks, individuals who take Viagra frequently report other less serious side effects. These side effects include:
- difficulty sleeping
- drowsiness
- ear wax buildup
- skin dryness
- blurred vision
- changes in color perception
- hair loss
- changes in mood
A number of factors likely contribute to the high rate of side effects associated with Viagra. First, the drug is highly effective and can quickly affect the individual’s quality of life; as a result, patients may become discouraged or agitated if they experience unsatisfactory results.
Second, since it is a prescription drug, patients may be more likely to misunderstand or mismanage it. For example, some individuals may take additional medication while others may take excessive amounts of the drug. Finally, since it is a relatively new drug, patients have had little exposure to its risks and side effects, particularly long-term effects. For this reason, it is always a good idea to consult with a physician before starting treatment or taking any medication, including Viagra.
Generic Viagra: Not A Substitute For Brand-Name Drug
While the benefits of Viagra are widely known and accepted, it is also important to consider its risks. In particular, as mentioned above, the drug can have serious side effects. Some of these risks are:
- headache
- dizziness
- abdominal pain
- stomach pain
- indigestion
- dyspepsia (indigestion)
- fainting
- breathing difficulties
- nasal discomfort
- psychiatric disturbances
In addition to these risks, individuals who take Viagra frequently report other less serious side effects. These side effects include:
- difficulty sleeping
- drowsiness
- ear wax buildup
- skin dryness
- blurred vision
- changes in color perception
- hair loss
- changes in mood
A number of factors likely contribute to the high rate of side effects associated with Viagra. First, the drug is highly effective and can quickly affect the individual’s quality of life; as a result, patients may become discouraged or agitated if they experience unsatisfactory results.
Second, since it is a prescription drug, patients may be more likely to misunderstand or mismanage it. For example, some individuals may take additional medication while others may take excessive amounts of the drug. Finally, since it is a relatively new drug, patients have had little exposure to its risks and side effects, particularly long-term effects.
In light of these risks, is there a generic version of Viagra that physicians can prescribe for patients? If so, what are the benefits and risks of such a drug?