Any Difference Between Viagra and Sildenafil?

Both Viagra 50mg and Sildenafil 50mg contain the same active ingredient – Sildenafil - that allow them to be categorized as PDE-5 inhibitors. This means they both work to impede blood flowing out of the penis, and as mentioned the manufacturer of any generic medication must show that it is as effective as the branded medication. With this understood we can conclude that there is no functional difference between Viagra and Sildenafil, and the only real difference is in the price.

There are some men who will insist that the branded Viagra is more potent. There will be an equal number of men who’ve tried both, and are perfectly content with saving money and enjoying what they perceive to be the same level of efficacy with generic Sildenafil.

Why Am I Prescribed Viagra 50mg or Sildenafil 50mg in That Dosage?

As mentioned, these are the standard starting doses for either the branded or generic medication. That’s because the 50mg dose has been determined to be effective for most men and a good starting point for patients new to the drug, without risking adverse side effects from a stronger dose if it’s not necessary.

Your physician may move you up to a stronger dose of Viagra or generic Sildenafil if you report getting an insufficient response to the medication at your current dose. He or she will likely not be receptive to any requests that you start at a higher dose in the interests of better ‘performance.’ This is medication, and should be regarded that way.

Precautions for Taking Viagra or Sildenafil

Even though Viagra 50mg and Sildenafil 50mg are the starting doses for this medication, it is still possible to suffer adverse reactions if you take either while on certain other types of medications at the same time. Viagra and Sildenafil are PDE-5 inhibitor medications, and they do not mix well with other medications that contain nitrates. Make your physician aware of ALL the medications you are currently before receiving a prescription for Viagra or Sildenafil.

Drugs containing nitrates both can lower your blood pressure to dangerous levels. Another precaution related to use of Viagra or Sildenafil is if you are taking alpha-blocker medications like Cardura and Flomax, among others, for hypertension.