What is sildenafil?
Sildenafil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction in men, sold under the brand name Viagra among others. It works by relaxing blood vessels in the penis and increasing blood flow during sexual stimulation, which helps men achieve and maintain an erection. The medication is a phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5) inhibitor and is available as a generic drug, making it a more affordable alternative to branded Viagra.
Key points:
- Sildenafil and Viagra contain the same active ingredient and work identically, but sildenafil is the generic, cheaper version
- The medication is taken orally and typically begins working within twenty minutes, lasting about four hours
- It is effective in approximately 60-70% of men when taken as prescribed
- Sexual stimulation is required for the medication to work, and it does not cure erectile dysfunction or increase sexual desire
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.