Generic Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) Uses, Dosage, Interactions, Side Effects, Pros and Cons

By Jason GrayMay 14, 20211536

Generic Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) Uses, Dosage, Interactions, Side Effects, Pros and Cons

Generic Viagra is a prescription drug that contains sildenafil citrate as an active ingredient, which has been approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Sildenafil Citrate belongs to the class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. The FDA approved sildenafil citrate in 1998 for the treatment of ED. Since then, it has predominantly been used for men who face erection troubles.

With ED, men are unable to obtain or sustain an erection. There could be several reasons associated with the development of ED in men, which are basically differentiated into physical and psychological. Physical causes include diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure, prostate issues, Peyronie’s disease, among others. Psychological causes include prolonged stress, clinical depression, anxiety, etc.

Generic Viagra Uses

Generic Viagra contains sildenafil citrate so it is used in men who are clinically diagnosed with ED, aka impotence. However, the drug sildenafil citrate is also used for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the lungs. For PAH, the drug is prescribed in lower potency in multiple dosages. For

Generic Viagra is considered safe and effective just like Viagra. A generic drug is nothing but an exact copy of brand-name medicine. Generic Viagra is much, much cheaper than the blue pill so most men often rely on generics to overcome ED and save money. However, it is important to buy Generic Viagra online from a trusted source.

Generic Viagra Dosage

It is imperative to use Generic Viagra under the supervision of a medical professional. Recreational use or self-medication must be avoided because sildenafil citrate is a prescription-only drug and it could prove harmful if taken when you have certain medical conditions or when you are on certain medications. 

For ED, doctors often advised dosage of 50 mg, which is to be taken orally, usually as needed, once in any 24-hour period. Take Generic Viagra 50 mg at least 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity; this gives the drug enough time to assimilate into your body. Do not take the dose more than once in 24 hours. Avoid a high-fat meal before or after taking the dose, as it may delay the drug’s efficacy.

Generic Viagra dosage is usually based on your medical history, need, and response to the drug. Also, it depends on the medications you have been taking. So, make sure you tell your doctor about the medical conditions you have been suffering from and the medications you have been taking, including prescription drugs, OTC drugs, and supplements or herbal products.

The usual recommended Generic Viagra dosage is 50 mg, but some may need 25 mg or even 100 mg. The maximum dose is 100 mg. Older people, especially those who are above 65 years of age, are recommended to start with a 25 mg dosage.

Generic Viagra Interactions

Like all synthetic medications, Generic Viagra adversely interacts with certain medications. They include nitrates, alpha-blockers, amlodipine, ritonavir, alcohol, protease inhibitors, among others. An oral intake of Generic Viagra with nitrates is contraindicated because both the drugs lower your blood pressure to a potentially dangerous level, needing immediate medical attention. 

Similarly, a combination of sildenafil citrate and alpha-blockers or amlodipine could increase the risk of severe hypotension (low blood pressure). Co-administration of Generic Viagra and ritonavir greatly increases the risk of adverse drug reactions. Excessive intake of alcohol before or after Generic Viagra dosage could increase the risk of dizziness and even syncope.

Generic Viagra Side Effects

Mild side effects of Generic Viagra include headache, facial flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion or stuffy nose, back pain, muscle pain, nausea, and dizziness. These side effects may subside within some time, but if they persist or become more severe, see a doctor right away.

Some of the serious side effects from Generic Viagra may include vision impairment, chest discomfort, extreme dizziness, and prolonged or painful erection. Visit your nearest ER right away if you experienced these serious side effects.

Generic Viagra is an effective medication recommended for the treatment of ED caused by either medical or psychological conditions. Uses, dosage, drug interactions, side effects, and precautions, along with patient safety information must be reviewed before taking any medication, including Generic Viagra.

Generic Viagra Pros and Cons

Pros: Undeniably, sildenafil citrate is the first-choice medication for most men who suffer from erectile dysfunction so Generic Viagra has an added advantage over other medications. More importantly, one does not need to take the medicine every day. All they need to do is take the dose only when they need it, preferably an hour before sexual activity. Another advantage of using Generic Viagra is the affordability. Compared to the branded version, generic versions are much, much affordable. For instance, Generic Viagra is nearly 85% cheaper than the brand Viagra.

Cons: Like all synthetic medications, Generic Viagra has a few limitations when it comes to its usage. For instance, you cannot take the blue pill if you had an episode of stroke or heart attack in the past 6 months. You also cannot the drug if you have a cardiovascular risk. If you have ED and any heart issues, Generic Viagra is prohibited. Another demerit of this drug is men who are undergoing treatment with nitrates, nitroglycerine, or alpha-blockers cannot take Generic Viagra.

Generic Viagra Risks and Warnings

In some men, Generic Viagra may cause certain health issues and this type of risk could be higher in certain groups of patients.

Risks: Heart attack, Stroke, Hypotension, Prolonged erection, Changes in vision or hearing

Generic Viagra is not recommended for men if they have a history of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, or any symptoms of heart failure. The safety of sildenafil citrate in these groups of patients has not been studied. So, it is important to talk to a doctor if you want to use the drug buy have these health issues.

If you are on medications that contain nitrates or alpha-blockers and take Generic Viagra, your blood pressure may drop to a potentially dangerous level. Nitrates are found in chest pain medications, while alpha-blockers in high blood pressure medications. You should never use sildenafil if you are on either nitrates or alpha-blockers.

A prolonged erection, aka priapism, is one of the rare risks of Generic Viagra. However, there have been reports of men experiencing an erection that lasted for more than 4 hours after taking sildenafil citrate. Although rare, it is a serious condition. If left untreated, priapism can cause permanent damage to the penile organ, causing permanent ED. Seek medical help right in such cases.

Some men have reported sudden changes in vision and hearing after using Generic Viagra. Vision impairment and hearing loss are risks of using this drug, but they are rare. One should seek medical attention right if they experience any change in vision or hearing.

Generic Viagra Overdose

Overdosing on prescription drugs can prove harmful. If you have overdosed on Generic Viagra and have serious symptoms such as chest pain/discomfort, breathlessness, flushing, or syncope, immediately visit your nearest ER. Symptoms of Generic Viagra overdose may also include extreme dizziness, fainting, and painful or prolonged erection. Self-medication or recreational use of Generic Viagra is strictly prohibited. The drug is only meant for men who have been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction but are otherwise healthy.