Viagra: Essential Facts & Treatment Guide

Viagra, containing sildenafil citrate, is a prescription medication for erectile dysfunction developed by Pfizer. This PDE5 inhibitor works by increasing blood flow to help achieve erections when sexually aroused. Available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg strengths, it typically works within 30-60 minutes. EverydayMeds offers both branded Viagra and generic sildenafil options following online consultation with UK-licensed prescribers.

  • Works within 30-60 minutes, effects may last 4-6 hours
  • Available as branded Viagra or generic sildenafil (same active ingredient)
  • Requires prescription following clinical assessment
  • Cannot be taken with nitrates or certain heart medications
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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.

Viagra Treatment: Dosages and Clinical Information

How Viagra Works

Viagra contains sildenafil citrate, which belongs to a class of medications called PDE5 inhibitors. When sexually aroused, it helps increase blood flow to the penis by blocking the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5. This medication does not cause automatic erections - sexual stimulation is still required for effectiveness.

Available Dosages and Usage

Viagra is available in three strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets. The typical starting dose is 50mg, taken approximately 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. Depending on effectiveness and tolerability, your prescriber may adjust this to 25mg or increase to 100mg. Only one dose should be taken within a 24-hour period. Food, particularly fatty meals, may delay the medication's onset.

Branded vs Generic Options

EverydayMeds offers both Viagra (the original branded version by Pfizer) and sildenafil (the generic equivalent). Both contain the same active ingredient and work identically, but generic sildenafil typically costs less whilst maintaining the same clinical effectiveness. Patients can choose their preferred option during the checkout process.

Who Can Take Viagra

Viagra is suitable for adult men aged 18 and over experiencing erectile dysfunction. Before prescribing, UK-licensed prescribers conduct a clinical assessment evaluating cardiovascular health, current medications, and medical history. This ensures the treatment is safe and appropriate for each individual patient.

Important Safety Considerations

Viagra cannot be taken with certain medications, particularly nitrates used for chest pain (such as GTN spray or isosorbide tablets), as this combination can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure. It's also unsuitable for men with severe heart conditions, recent heart attacks or strokes, severe liver problems, or very low blood pressure. Always disclose all current medications and medical conditions during consultation.

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.
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