Understanding Your Sildenafil Treatment Options
What is Sildenafil and How Does it Compare to Viagra Connect?
Sildenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor medication used to treat erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow when sexually aroused. Viagra Connect contains 50mg sildenafil and is available over-the-counter from UK pharmacies following a consultation. Prescription sildenafil tablets offer the same active ingredient but with greater flexibility in dosing and typically at a lower cost. EverydayMeds provides both branded Viagra and generic sildenafil options, allowing patients to choose based on their preferences and budget.
Key Differences: Prescription vs Over-the-Counter Options
The main difference lies in availability and dosing flexibility. Viagra Connect is limited to 50mg tablets and requires a face-to-face pharmacy consultation. Prescription sildenafil tablets are available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg strengths, allowing for personalised dosing based on individual response and tolerability. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for men who find 50mg either insufficient or too strong for their needs.
Cost Considerations and Value
Generic sildenafil tablets typically offer significant cost savings compared to branded alternatives. Whilst Viagra Connect may seem convenient, the ongoing cost can be substantially higher than prescription sildenafil. Online prescription services often provide competitive pricing for both generic sildenafil and branded Viagra, with the added convenience of discreet home delivery. Many patients find that the cost savings of generic sildenafil make it an attractive long-term treatment option.
Dosing Flexibility and Personalisation
Prescription sildenafil allows for dose adjustment based on individual response. Men may start with 50mg and adjust to 25mg if experiencing side effects or increase to 100mg if the initial dose proves insufficient. This personalisation is not possible with Viagra Connect's fixed 50mg dose. Healthcare providers can also recommend timing adjustments, such as taking the medication on an empty stomach for optimal effectiveness.
Clinical Assessment and Safety
Both options require clinical assessment, but prescription services often provide more comprehensive evaluation. Online prescription consultations can review medical history, current medications, and cardiovascular health more thoroughly than brief pharmacy consultations. This thorough assessment helps ensure the medication is suitable and safe, particularly important for men with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.
Convenience and Accessibility
Online prescription services offer distinct advantages in terms of convenience and discretion. Rather than visiting a pharmacy for each purchase of Viagra Connect, men can complete consultations online and receive regular supplies by post. This approach may be particularly appealing for those who value privacy or have busy schedules that make pharmacy visits challenging.
