BNF Sildenafil: Frequently Asked Questions

Sildenafil is a proven erectile dysfunction treatment available as both generic sildenafil and branded Viagra. This comprehensive FAQ covers everything you need to know about sildenafil from the British National Formulary perspective, including dosages, eligibility, and safety information. EverydayMeds offers both generic and branded options following online consultation with UK-licensed prescribers for your convenience and choice.

  • Available as generic sildenafil or branded Viagra with identical active ingredients
  • Standard doses: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets with typical starting dose of 50mg
  • Works within 30-60 minutes when sexually aroused with effects lasting 4-6 hours
  • Requires prescription following clinical assessment by qualified UK healthcare professional
Start your free consultation

Takes less than 2 minutes to complete, 100% online

More pleasure. Less waiting. Built to last.

Get Started

Not sure which one? Here's the honest comparison.

Sildenafil
~60 min
~4 hrs
you like to plan ahead
Tadalafil (as-needed)Most prescribed
~30 min
up to 36 hrs
you want a whole weekend covered
Tadalafil Daily
always active
continuous
you never want to think about timing
Vardenafil
~15–30 min
~8 hrs
you want the fastest onset

How ED treatment works in your body.

Increases blood flow

Increases blood flow

When PDE5 is suppressed, blood is able to flow more freely through the body—including to the (you guessed it) penis.

Increase erections

Increase erections

More blood flow to the penis means harder, more satisfying erections once you're sexually stimulated.

Understanding Sildenafil: Clinical Information

How Sildenafil Works According to BNF Guidelines

Sildenafil belongs to a class of medications called PDE5 inhibitors, as detailed in the British National Formulary. It works by blocking the phosphodiesterase type 5 enzyme, which increases blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal. Patients can choose between generic sildenafil or branded Viagra at EverydayMeds, as both contain the same active ingredient and work identically.

BNF Dosage Recommendations

The BNF recommends starting with sildenafil 50mg, taken approximately one hour before sexual activity. Depending on effectiveness and tolerability, the dose may be adjusted to 25mg or increased to a maximum of 100mg. Only one dose should be taken within any 24-hour period. Both generic sildenafil and Viagra follow these same dosing guidelines.

Contraindications and Safety Warnings

The BNF clearly states that sildenafil must not be used with nitrates such as GTN spray or isosorbide medications due to dangerous blood pressure drops. Other contraindications include severe heart disease, recent heart attack or stroke within six months, severe liver impairment, and very low blood pressure. Patients taking riociguat should also avoid sildenafil.

Clinical Assessment Requirements

As outlined in BNF guidance, sildenafil requires prescription following proper clinical assessment. This evaluation includes cardiovascular health review, current medications check, and medical history assessment. EverydayMeds ensures all patients complete this essential safety screening with qualified UK prescribers before accessing either generic sildenafil or branded Viagra options.

Side Effects and Monitoring

Common side effects listed in the BNF include headache, facial flushing, indigestion, and nasal congestion. Serious but rare side effects requiring immediate medical attention include prolonged erections lasting over four hours, sudden vision loss, or chest pain. Regular monitoring may be recommended for patients with cardiovascular conditions or those taking multiple medications alongside sildenafil treatment.

What you need to know about erectile dysfunction

It's one of the most common conditions we treat, and one of the most treatable.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?
ED means finding it hard to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex. It's not unusual to have an off night; the point at which it's worth doing something is when it's happening regularly, or when it's starting to bother you.
How will I feel when I take ED medication?
For most men, nothing feels different day to day. The medication works in the background — when you're sexually aroused, it helps blood flow where it's needed, so erections come more easily and last longer. It doesn't cause arousal on its own. Some men notice mild, short-lived effects like a headache, facial flushing or a stuffy nose, which usually pass as the dose wears off.
Why do I need a prescription for ED medication?
ED treatments are prescription-only medicines in the UK because they aren't suitable for everyone — for example, alongside certain heart conditions or medications like nitrates. That's why we ask you to complete a short online consultation first. A UK-registered prescriber reviews your answers to make sure your chosen treatment is safe and right for you before it's dispensed.
Couple laughing together

How it works

Achieve your goals in just a few simple steps.

Step 1

Start Free Consultation

Select safe UK treatments. Quick answers.

Step 2

Review By Our Clinical Team

Our expert team will use your consultation as the basis of our recommendation and communicate with you.

Step 3

Get it delivered fast

We’ll deliver direct to you, as quickly as tomorrow.

Frequently asked questions