How Viagra Works vs Viagra Connect Options
What Viagra Does in Your Body
Viagra contains sildenafil citrate, which works as a PDE5 inhibitor. When you're sexually aroused, it may help increase blood flow to the penis by blocking the enzyme that normally reduces blood flow. This mechanism can help men with erectile dysfunction achieve and maintain erections suitable for sexual activity. It's important to understand that Viagra doesn't cause automatic erections - sexual stimulation is still required for the medication to be effective.
Prescription Viagra vs Viagra Connect
Prescription Viagra offers three strength options (25mg, 50mg, 100mg) following consultation with a prescriber, whilst Viagra Connect is available over-the-counter in 50mg only. The prescription route allows for personalised dosing based on your medical history, current medications, and individual response. EverydayMeds provides access to all prescription strengths through our online consultation service with UK-licensed prescribers.
Branded Viagra vs Generic Sildenafil
Both branded Viagra and generic sildenafil contain the same active ingredient and work identically in your body. The main differences are cost and manufacturer - generic sildenafil typically costs significantly less whilst providing the same therapeutic benefits. At EverydayMeds, you can choose between branded Viagra or generic sildenafil at checkout, allowing you to select based on your preference and budget.
Expected Effects and Timeline
Viagra typically begins working within 30-60 minutes of taking it on an empty stomach. Food, particularly fatty meals, may delay the onset of effects. The medication's effects can last 4-6 hours, though this doesn't mean you'll have an erection for this entire duration. Instead, it means you may find it easier to achieve erections during this window when sexually aroused.
Dosage Considerations
Most men start with 50mg, which can be adjusted to 25mg if side effects occur, or increased to 100mg if the initial dose isn't effective. Only one dose should be taken in any 24-hour period. Our prescribers evaluate your medical history, current medications, and individual needs to recommend the most appropriate starting dose during your online consultation.
Who Can Take Viagra
Viagra is suitable for adult men with erectile dysfunction who pass a clinical assessment. However, it's not appropriate for everyone. Men taking nitrate medications, those with severe heart conditions, or recent stroke/heart attack history may not be suitable candidates. Our consultation process helps identify whether Viagra is appropriate for your individual circumstances and medical history.
