Generic Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate )

Introduction

Viagra is a widely recognised medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. It belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. The active ingredient in Viagra is Sildenafil Citrate, which is also available in generic forms. Viagra is typically administered as a pill in various dosages, including 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg, though other dosages may be available. While primarily known for treating ED, Sildenafil Citrate is also approved for managing symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Quick Reference Facts

Active Ingredient

Sildenafil Citrate

Form

Pill 25mg | 50mg | 100mg | 120mg | 130mg | 150mg | 200mg

Primary and Off-Label Uses

Erectile Dysfunction, Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, Raynaud's Phenomenon (Off-label)

What is Viagra?

Viagra is a prescription medication designed to help adult men achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Its active ingredient, Sildenafil Citrate, is a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). Originally developed by Pfizer, Viagra (the brand-name medication) was the first PDE5 inhibitor to be approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Generic versions containing Sildenafil Citrate are now widely available, offering a more affordable alternative to the brand-name product. While Viagra is the most recognised brand, Sildenafil Citrate is the active compound found in various medications marketed for ED and, in some cases, PAH.

How Viagra Works

Sildenafil Citrate, the active ingredient in Viagra, works by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide (NO), a natural chemical produced by the body. During sexual stimulation, NO triggers the production of a molecule called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP causes the smooth muscles in the blood vessels of the penis to relax, allowing for increased blood flow into the corpora cavernosa, leading to an erection. PDE5 is an enzyme that breaks down cGMP. By inhibiting PDE5, Sildenafil Citrate prevents the breakdown of cGMP, thereby prolonging its action and facilitating an erection in the presence of sexual stimulation.

It is important to note that Viagra does not cause an erection automatically; sexual stimulation is still required for the process to begin. The medication typically begins to have an effect within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion, and its effects can last for up to four hours. Viagra is absorbed well after oral administration and undergoes metabolism in the liver.

For individuals with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), Sildenafil Citrate works by dilating the blood vessels in the lungs, reducing the pressure within these vessels and improving the heart's ability to pump blood. This action helps to alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue associated with PAH.

Conditions Treated with Viagra

Viagra, primarily through its active ingredient Sildenafil Citrate, is approved for the following medical conditions:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): This is the most common use of Viagra. ED is characterised by the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Viagra helps by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal, making it easier to achieve an erection.

• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): In its branded form (Revatio), Sildenafil Citrate is approved to treat PAH, a serious condition where blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs is abnormally high. By relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs, it reduces pulmonary artery pressure, improves exercise capacity, and delays clinical deterioration.

Is Viagra the Right Medication for You?

Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) is generally suitable for adult men experiencing erectile dysfunction who have received a medical diagnosis. It is particularly beneficial for those whose ED stems from vascular issues or certain psychological factors that can be addressed with improved physical function. Men with overall good cardiovascular health and no specific contraindications may find Viagra an effective treatment option.

However, Viagra is not appropriate for everyone. It is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to Sildenafil Citrate or any of its components. Men taking nitrate medications for chest pain (angina) should not use Viagra, as the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Caution is also advised for individuals with certain pre-existing heart conditions, liver or kidney problems, or specific blood cell disorders. A thorough medical evaluation by a doctor is essential to determine if Viagra is a safe and appropriate choice for you, considering your individual health status and other medications you might be taking.

Buying Viagra from Our Online Pharmacy

For many individuals, accessing effective ED medication like Viagra can present challenges due to cost, convenience, or privacy concerns. Our online pharmacy provides a reliable and accessible solution, offering Sildenafil Citrate, the active ingredient in Viagra, alongside other quality medications.

Why Choose Our Service?

We understand the importance of discretion and affordability when managing personal health needs. Our service is designed to offer you a convenient way to purchase Sildenafil Citrate without the potential complexities of over-the-counter or traditional prescription routes in some regions. We aim to democratise access to essential treatments, ensuring that managing erectile dysfunction is straightforward and stress-free.

Quality & Safety Assurance

We are committed to delivering genuine and high-quality medications. We partner with licensed international pharmacies to ensure authenticity and compliance with stringent regulatory standards. This global network allows us to source products that meet rigorous safety and efficacy benchmarks, providing you with peace of mind.

Pricing & Access

A significant advantage of our service is access to cost-effective generic options. For those seeking the active ingredient Sildenafil Citrate, generic formulations offer the same therapeutic benefits as brand-name Viagra but at a considerably lower price point. This makes essential ED treatment more accessible and sustainable for a wider range of patients.

Discreet Delivery

Your privacy is paramount. All orders are processed and dispatched with the utmost discretion. Medications are packaged in plain, unmarked boxes to ensure confidentiality. We offer reliable delivery services, with express options typically arriving within 7 days and standard airmail usually taking approximately 3 weeks, ensuring your medication reaches you securely and privately.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Viagra is available in several dosages, including 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg pills, with other higher dosages such as 120mg, 130mg, 150mg, and 200mg also present in the market for Sildenafil Citrate. The typical starting dose for erectile dysfunction is 50mg taken approximately one hour before sexual activity. Depending on effectiveness and tolerability, the dose can be adjusted by your doctor; lower doses may be prescribed for older men or those with certain medical conditions.

Missed Dose

Viagra is taken as needed for sexual activity and is not a daily medication for ED. Therefore, the concept of a "missed dose" in the typical sense does not apply. If you forget to take Viagra before sexual activity, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is not too close to your next planned sexual encounter. Do not take a double dose.

Overdose

If you suspect you or someone else has taken too much Viagra, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of overdose can include severe dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or priapism (a prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours). While not life-threatening in itself, priapism can lead to permanent damage if not treated promptly. It is crucial to contact emergency services or a poison control centre promptly.

Practical Precautions

• Administration: Viagra is best taken on an empty stomach. Taking it with a high-fat meal may delay its absorption and reduce its effectiveness.
• Alcohol: Consuming alcohol can temporarily impair erectile function and may also increase the likelihood of side effects like dizziness and headaches. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake when taking Viagra.
• Operating Machinery: Viagra can cause side effects such as dizziness and visual disturbances. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Safety Information

⚠️ Who Should Not Take Viagra

Viagra is contraindicated in individuals who are:

• Allergic to Sildenafil Citrate or any of the inactive ingredients in the pill.
• Taking nitrate medications (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate/dinitrate) for angina or heart conditions, as this can lead to a severe and potentially fatal drop in blood pressure.
• Suffering from severe heart problems or have recently had a stroke or heart attack.
• Experiencing non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a type of vision loss.
• Having inherited eye diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects of Viagra are generally mild to moderate and include:

• Headache
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling sensation in the face or chest)
• Nasal congestion
• Indigestion or upset stomach
• Dizziness
• Changes in vision (e.g., blurred vision, altered colour perception)
• Back pain

These side effects usually resolve on their own within a few hours.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help)

Although rare, serious side effects require immediate medical attention:

• Priapism: An erection lasting more than 4 hours. This is a medical emergency and can cause permanent damage if not treated quickly.
• Sudden decrease or loss of vision: This could be a sign of NAION.
• Sudden decrease or loss of hearing: This can sometimes be accompanied by ringing in the ears.
• Allergic reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Chest pain or severe dizziness: Especially if it occurs during sexual activity.

Drug & Food Interactions

Viagra can interact with various medications and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Significant interactions include:

• Nitrates: As mentioned, these are strictly contraindicated.
• Alpha-blockers: Medications used to treat high blood pressure or prostate conditions (e.g., prazosin, terazosin, doxazosin). Taking these together with Viagra may lead to a significant drop in blood pressure and dizziness.
• Other PDE5 Inhibitors: Combining Viagra with medications like tadalafil (Cialis) or vardenafil (Levitra) is not recommended.
• Antihypertensives: Blood pressure-lowering medications may have additive effects with Viagra.
• Protease Inhibitors: Used to treat HIV/AIDS (e.g., ritonavir, saquinavir). These can significantly increase Sildenafil Citrate levels in the body, increasing the risk of side effects.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications like erythromycin, ketoconazole, and itraconazole can increase Sildenafil Citrate levels.
• Grapefruit Juice: Consuming large amounts of grapefruit juice may increase Sildenafil Citrate levels in the blood.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Viagra

While Viagra is primarily approved for erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension, Sildenafil Citrate has been explored for other medical purposes, though these uses are considered off-label.

• Raynaud's Phenomenon: Some clinical studies suggest that Sildenafil Citrate may be beneficial in managing Raynaud's phenomenon, a condition where blood vessels in the extremities (fingers and toes) narrow in response to cold or stress, reducing blood flow. Sildenafil's vasodilatory properties may help to alleviate symptoms by improving blood circulation to affected areas. This use has not been formally approved by regulatory bodies like the MHRA.

• High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema: Research has investigated Sildenafil Citrate's potential role in preventing or treating high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), a potentially life-threatening condition that can develop at high altitudes. Its ability to dilate pulmonary blood vessels makes it a candidate for this application, though it is not a standard treatment.

• Congenital Heart Defects: In specific cases involving pediatric congenital heart conditions requiring pulmonary artery pressure reduction, Sildenafil Citrate has been used under strict medical supervision.

It is crucial for patients to understand that the efficacy and safety of Sildenafil Citrate for these off-label uses have not undergone the same rigorous regulatory review as its approved indications. Any consideration of off-label treatment should only be undertaken with a healthcare provider who can carefully assess the potential benefits against the risks.

Storage & Handling

Viagra pills should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). They should be protected from excessive heat, light, and moisture. For example, avoid storing them in a bathroom or a car where temperatures can fluctuate significantly. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children and pets. Always check the expiration date on the packaging. Do not use medication that has expired. If you have any unused or expired Viagra, consult your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidance on safe disposal methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Using Viagra

• Can I take Viagra with grapefruit juice? Consuming large amounts of grapefruit juice may increase the levels of Sildenafil Citrate in your blood, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. It is generally advisable to avoid excessive grapefruit consumption while taking Viagra.

• Is it safe to take Viagra while travelling across time zones? Viagra is taken on demand before sexual activity. Time zone changes do not inherently affect its efficacy or safety, but you should still adhere to the recommended dosing and take it approximately one hour before anticipated sexual activity. Carry your medication in its original packaging.

• What if I have difficulty swallowing pills? If you have trouble swallowing Viagra pills, discuss this with your healthcare provider. While Viagra itself is a solid oral dosage form, alternative formulations or strategies might be available depending on your specific circumstances and local availability.

Product Information

• What do Viagra tablets look like? Viagra tablets (the 50mg and 100mg dosages) are typically light blue, film-coated, and diamond-shaped, with "VIAGRA" on one side and "Pfizer" on the other. Generic Sildenafil Citrate pills can vary in appearance, shape, and colour depending on the manufacturer.

• Can I split a Viagra tablet in half? While some pills are scored to be split, it is generally not recommended to split Viagra tablets unless specifically advised by your doctor or pharmacist. Splitting may affect the absorption or potency of the medication, and generic variations may not be scored for accurate division.

• What are the inactive ingredients in Viagra? Inactive ingredients in Viagra typically include microcrystalline cellulose, calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, lactose, triacetin, and FD&C Blue No. 2 aluminium lake. These are generally considered inert and do not contribute to the drug's therapeutic effect.

Safety & Regulations

• Will Viagra show up on a drug test? Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) is not a recreational drug and is not typically included in standard drug screening panels unless specifically tested for. Standard urine or blood tests look for illicit substances or prescription drugs of abuse.

• Can women take Viagra? Viagra is approved for use only in adult men for erectile dysfunction. Its use in women has not been established and is not recommended without specific medical guidance for off-label indications, which are not standard practice.

• Are there any restrictions on personal import of Viagra? Regulations regarding the personal import of prescription medications vary significantly by country. It is essential to check the specific import laws of your destination country and UK regulations to ensure compliance.

Glossary

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

A condition characterised by the consistent or recurrent inability to obtain or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse.

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)

A type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart, making it harder for the heart to pump blood through the lungs.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels, which increases blood flow and can lower blood pressure.

Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) Inhibitors

A class of drugs that block the action of the PDE5 enzyme, leading to increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which promotes relaxation of smooth muscles and vasodilation.

Corpora Cavernosa

The two main parallel sponge-like bodies of erectile tissue located in the penis. Erection occurs when these tissues fill with blood.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Viagra is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. It is not a substitute for diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a qualified healthcare provider. All treatment decisions, including the use of Viagra for its approved indications or any off-label applications, should be made under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. We assume that all users of this information are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy service offers access to Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) for individuals who may benefit from additional convenience and affordability, or for those seeking generic alternatives. Always consult with your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication or treatment.