Viagra, also known as the “little blue pill,” is the brand name of an erectile dysfunction (ED) medication.
Approved for medical use in the late 90s, the medication skyrocketed in popularity and became the go-to prescription medication for people wanting to treat ED.
ED, a condition that makes it challenging to get or maintain an erection, is common. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), around 30 million men in the United States experience ED. The condition tends to affect older adults, but it can also occur in people under 40.
Viagra is an effective treatment option for the condition. But getting your hands on it requires a prescription. Keep reading to find out more about Viagra and where to get it in person and online.
What is Viagra?
Viagra is a prescription drug that treats ED. The main active ingredient is sildenafil, which is the generic form of Viagra.
Sildenafil helps with ED by increasing blood flow to the penis, allowing you to get and keep an erection when sexually aroused.
The brand name drug was initially manufactured by Pfizer. But, since the patent expiration, other companies now produce and sell less expensive generic versions of the medication.
Do you need a prescription for Viagra?
Yes. You need a prescription for both Viagra and generic sildenafil.
You can get a prescription either in person or online. With an ever-growing number of telehealth companies providing remote services, it’s easier than ever to skip an in-person doctor’s visit and request a prescription online.
Keep in mind that you’ll still need to make sure the doctor you’re talking with knows about any other medications you’re taking and if you have additional symptoms.
How to get Viagra in person
If you’d like to get a Viagra prescription in person, you can talk with your doctor. Make sure they’re up-to-date on any medications or supplements you’re taking.
Your doctor will also ask you about other symptoms you might be experiencing. ED is common, but it can occur for various reasons, including underlying medical conditions.
Once you have a prescription, you can fill it at your pharmacy. You can also ask your doctor to send the prescription directly to your nearest pharmacy.
Cost
Pricing depends on whether you’re prescribed the brand-name or generic version.
According to GoodRx, the price for two 100 mg tablets of brand-name Viagra is around $136. You’ll pay significantly less for the generic version — around $20 for thirty 100 mg tablets.
Most insurance companies don’t cover Viagra prescriptions. But Medicare and some private insurance plans may cover generic forms. Always check with your insurance company first to avoid a surprise at the pharmacy checkout.
Viagra safety and side effects
Take Viagra as directed. While there are various dosages available, it’s important not to take more than directed.
While Viagra is considered safe to use, some people may experience side effects, such as:
- headaches
- flushing
- stomach troubles
- stuffed or runny nose
- back and muscle pain
- dizziness
Serious side effects that require emergency attention include:
- chest pain
- trouble breathing
- vision changes
Additionally, some medications can interact negatively with Viagra. Examples include:
- antibiotics
- nitrates
- antivirals
- blood pressure medications
Always tell your doctor about the medications and supplements you’re taking. Some drug interactions cause severe or fatal side effects.
How long does it take for Viagra to start working?
It depends on the person, but it usually takes around 30 minutes.
How long do the effects of Viagra last?
This depends on the dose. Most of the time, the effects should last around 4 to 5 hours.
Anything longer than that requires an emergency room visit. This is important, so a health professional can check for heart or blood pressure issues.
What’s the difference between Viagra and sildenafil?
There’s no difference except the fancy branding. They’re chemically identical.
What are some alternatives to Viagra?
Other ED medications include:
- tadalafil (Cialis)
- vardenafil (Levitra or Staxyn)
- avanafil (Stendra)
According to the NIDDK, non-prescription alternatives to Viagra include lifestyle changes, like:
- limiting or stopping smoking
- limiting or stopping alcohol consumption
- exercising more
- maintaining a healthy body weight
- stopping the use of illegal drugs
- receiving counseling
- trying alternative medicines
- wearing ED devices, like rings and pumps
- having surgery
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