Sildenafil vs Viagra - Is There a Difference?

• Viagra and Sildenafil contain the same active ingredient, Sildenafil citrate
• They work the same and there is no difference in effectiveness
• Only inactive ingredients such as colouring or binding agents, may be different

When searching for erectile dysfunction (ED) treatments, you’ll come across two common names: Viagra and Sildenafil. Both contain the same active ingredient, Sildenafil citrate. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis to help achieve and maintain an erection.

The main difference between them comes down to branding and price, rather than how they work or how effective they are.

Yes, Sildenafil works just as well as Viagra.

Both medicines contain the same active ingredient in the same strength, and both take around 30-60 minutes to work, lasting up to 4-5 hours.

The only variation may come from inactive ingredients (such as colourings, fillers, or binding agents), which do not affect how the medicine works.

In clinical terms, Viagra and Sildenafil are medically equivalent, meaning they deliver the same results in treating erectile dysfunction.

Viagra is the original branded version of Sildenafil, manufactured by Pfizer. When its patent expired in 2013, other companies were allowed to produce generic versions under the name Sildenafil.

As with most generic medicines, manufacturers can sell Sildenafil at a lower price because they don’t have the same marketing or research costs that came with developing the original drug.

You are essentially paying more for the brand name “Viagra”, not for increased effectiveness.

The main benefit of choosing Sildenafil over Viagra is cost.

Since both contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way, Sildenafil offers a more affordable option for men seeking effective ED treatment.

Choosing Sildenafil allows you to get the same clinical benefits at a fraction of the cost, making it the most popular alternative to branded Viagra.

Viagra is also available in Viagra Connect, which can be purchased without a prescription from a pharmacy after a short consultation.

However, generic Sildenafil tablets (prescription version) tend to be more cost-effective, whilst offering the same medical benefits.

There are also other types of ED medication, such as Tadalafil (Cialis) and Vardenafil (Levitra), which may suit men who prefer different onset times or duration of action.

Further reading: Sildenafil vs Tadalafil

• Viagra and Sildenafil are the same medicine (both contain Sildenafil citrate)
• Effectiveness and safety are identical between the two
• Viagra costs more because it’s a branded version by Pfizer
• Sildenafil offers the same results for less money
• For most men, generic Sildenafil is the smarter, more cost-effective choice