The most effective short-term threat for erectile dysfunction (ED) is generic Viagra, Sildenafil. One of the most trusted online resources about health, SingleCare states that every 10th man in the US has problems with erection. Being that widespread, it is important to learn about the means of treating it. Generic Viagra increases blood flow in the lower body, helping to have longer and prominent erections.
Viagra - history of the active drug
The term generic Viagra may seem confusing for people familiar with the official brand. It is necessary to learn the history of this medicament in order to avoid any misconceptions about generics.
In 1998 pharmacy company Pfizer have been running tests on sildenafil, a freshly discovered compound. At first, it was perceived as a threat to high blood pressure, but when during the research, scientists noticed something unusual. Even a small dosage of the drug made trial participants had an easier erection. The same year it was patented as a Viagra, becoming the pseudo number one treatment for ED.
Like most of the US patents work, the one for Viagra prohibited other companies from using the formula. In 2017 it became available for other pharmaceutical manufacturers in the form of the central component, sildenafil. It is where the term «generic» is coming from, even if the Viagra brand name is still owned by Pfizer.
Important! Generic drugs are never called Viagra or Generic Viagra, it often goes by the name of Sildenafil Citrate. These 2 products are biologically equivalent, meaning it has the same erectile dysfunction treatment properties. The major difference is the price: while Viagra may go for $70, generics’ prices are around $10.
Sildenafil – what is it is used for
The main active ingredient of every Viagra-like medication is sildenafil, a 9-step-made compound made by England-based chemists in the 90s. Further studies conclude the following conditions suited for sildenafil use:
- erectile dysfunction;
- pulmonary hypertension;
- high-attitude pulmonary edema;
- Raynaud’s phenomenon.
Researches made in recent years also suggest it is a good supplement for antidepressant therapy. This medication often causes ED as well as high blood pressure for some patients. The use of generic Viagra is the way to avoid these side effects.
Viagra – how does it actually work in lower body?
Its initial purpose was a cure for hypertension and angina. After the 1st trial, Pfizer’s physiologists suggested the effect is much more prominent in the lower body, the penis to be specific. Further trials showed the exact mechanism of it. Processes behind the suggested use sum up in blocking the enzyme responsible for blood flow regulation. To be specific, cGMP receptors in the sponge-like tissues become surrounded by Nitric Oxide, increasing the volumes of this enzyme. It leads to the relaxation of the muscles preventing free blood flow in helicine arteries.
Important! Affecting the receptors, sildenafil will not cause an erection by itself. These specific enzymes are produced only in the presence of the outer stimulus. It is the main reason why this drug is so convenient to use.
Sildenafil dosage – proper is important
Being a generic Viagra, it is hard to list all the forms and dosages in 1 article. Instead, the most popular variant of the medication will be reviewed. First of all, sildenafil comes in the form of small blue tablets with the following amount of active drug:
- 25mg;
- 50mg;
- 100mg.
Most of the doctors recommend starting with a 50mg daily dosage as it is the best starting point for future adjustments. It is possible to raise this amount to 200mg daily dosage for older patients.
How to use generic Viagra
The drug in question is mostly safe to use for men above 18 but still should be avoided before the prescription. It is necessary to see a local or online doctor in order to learn about possible side effects, the preferred amount of sildenafil taken daily, and the cause of ED. Working in tandem with a professional is the right way to handle health problems. It is also important to emphasize the fact that the strength of the effect depends on the time of use. Taken in the medication before eating results in a much stronger erection. Fats in the food slow down active drug absorption in the digestive system.
Possible side effects of Sildenafil
Recreational use of generic Viagra (sildenafil) is totally free of any dangers, yet some of the unwanted results may follow. Commonly recognized side effects by the official Pfizer study:
- light sensitivity;
- hearing sensitivity;
- blurred vision;
- headache;
- stomachache;
- high blood pressure.
According to the multiple articles on the aforementioned trusted website Healthline, the difference in dosage affects only the strength of them. Trying different generic Viagra medication shows much better results to avoid side effects entirely.
Study the extreme cases
FPM scientific journal conducted anonymous research among its readers to learn about the number of generic Viagra overdose cases in their doctorial practice. The results were alarming, showing that people do not recognize the dangers of the frivolous use of this drug. To be specific, patients who tend to increase the dosage 1,5-2 times, could pass out, had problems with the heart rhythm and breathing. If any of the symptoms were experienced even in lesser forms, it would be much safer to contact a hospital or local poisoning center.
Avoid Sildenafil use under these conditions
One of the common misconceptions about sildenafil tablets is their only precaution is an allergy to the active substance. Doctors identify the following conditions preventing or limiting the use of generic Viagra:
- heart problems;
- recent stroke;
- kidney problems;
- liver problems;
- abnormal blood pressure;
- problems with penis tissues;
- eye problems;
- leukemia.
Doctors can identify them before recommending medication containing sildenafil. We would like to hear stories from our readers in the comments describing the use of generic Viagra under the listed conditions.
Where to buy generic Viagra
While most of the readers are outside of the US, it would not be fair to talk about the local US prices. Pfizer’s Viagra price is fixed and around $60-$100 for all countries. Sildenafil price, on the other hand, may vary depending on the local retailers and manufacturers. It is possible now to learn about this medication online using the official websites of the local pharmacy stores. We would like to hear about the best local generic Viagra you have used .