Viagra generic name: Sildenafil (same ingredient)
The Viagra generic name is sildenafil, the same active ingredient. Here is what that means for safety, use, and how to talk to a clinician.
Key facts
- Sildenafil is $69.67/month (billed $209 every 90 days), charged only after a clinician approves it.
- Answer a few health questions online. A licensed clinician reviews them. If approved, it ships to your door.
- Adults 18 or older. A licensed clinician reviews your health history and decides whether treatment is appropriate for you. Availability depends on the state you live in.
The Viagra generic name is sildenafil. Viagra is a brand name, and sildenafil is the medication ingredient that produces the effect. If you are comparing options, what matters most is whether the product contains sildenafil and whether it is appropriate for you based on your health history and other medicines. Vitals Vault can help you review options with a licensed clinician and, when appropriate, access generic sildenafil.
- The Viagra generic name is sildenafil, the same active ingredient.
- Sildenafil is also sold under another brand name, Revatio, for pulmonary arterial hypertension.
- Do not use sildenafil with nitrates; the combination can cause dangerous low blood pressure.
- If chest pain happens during sex, stop and get emergency medical help.
What is the generic name for Viagra?
- Brand name
- Viagra (sildenafil citrate)
- Generic name
- Sildenafil
- Drug class
- PDE5 inhibitor (phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor)
- Also marketed as
- Revatio (sildenafil) for pulmonary arterial hypertension
What that means in practice
Same active ingredient
Generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient as brand Viagra. The FDA requires approved generics to meet standards for quality, strength, purity, and performance. Some non active ingredients can differ, which can matter if you have a specific allergy or sensitivity.
Same key safety rules
Whether it is brand Viagra or generic sildenafil, the major safety warnings and drug interactions are the same. The most important is avoiding nitrates (often used for chest pain) because the combination can cause a severe drop in blood pressure.
Not all sildenafil is for ED
Sildenafil is also sold as Revatio for pulmonary arterial hypertension, which is a different condition with different dosing and prescribing considerations. Do not assume products are interchangeable without a clinician confirming the indication and instructions.
Common side effects
Common side effects of sildenafil for erectile dysfunction include headache, flushing, indigestion (dyspepsia), nasal congestion, and visual color tinge or blurred vision. If side effects are bothersome or persistent, a clinician can help review contributing factors and options.
Serious side effects to know
Seek urgent medical care for an erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism), sudden vision loss, or sudden hearing decrease or loss. If chest pain, dizziness, or nausea occurs during sex, stop and get emergency medical help and do not take nitrates unless a clinician directs it.
| Name you may see | What it refers to | Typical use on the label |
|---|---|---|
| Viagra | Brand name for sildenafil citrate tablets | Erectile dysfunction |
| Sildenafil | Generic name (active ingredient) | Erectile dysfunction (and other labeled uses depending on product) |
| Revatio | Brand name for sildenafil (different product labeling) | Pulmonary arterial hypertension |
When to talk to a clinician
You have heart symptoms
If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or known serious heart disease, ask a clinician before using sildenafil. Sexual activity itself can strain the heart, and clinicians may want to assess cardiovascular risk first.
You take interacting medicines
Bring a list of all prescription drugs, over the counter medicines, and supplements. Nitrates and riociguat are major interactions, and some medicines can change sildenafil levels in the body, which can affect side effects and safety.
ED is new or worsening
New erectile dysfunction can sometimes be an early sign of conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, or medication side effects. A clinician can help evaluate possible causes and choose the safest next step.
You have vision or hearing risks
If you have a history of certain eye conditions or you have ever had sudden vision loss, discuss this before using sildenafil. Sudden vision loss and sudden hearing loss are rare but serious warnings on the label.
Pro tips for comparing products
Check the ingredient line
Look for sildenafil as the active ingredient, not just the word Viagra.
Avoid counterfeit sources
Use a licensed pharmacy pathway so you know what you are getting.
Share your full med list
Interactions, especially nitrates, are a key safety issue with sildenafil.
Ask about underlying causes
ED can be linked to heart health, hormones, or medication effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the generic name for Viagra?
The generic name for Viagra is sildenafil. Viagra is the brand name, and sildenafil is the active ingredient in the tablet. Both follow the same key safety warnings for sildenafil products.
Is the generic name for Viagra sildenafil?
Yes. Sildenafil is the generic name for Viagra, meaning it is the same medication ingredient. If you are choosing between products, confirm the active ingredient and discuss interactions and health conditions with a clinician.
Is generic sildenafil the same as brand Viagra?
They share the same active ingredient, sildenafil, and FDA approved generics must meet standards for quality and performance. Some inactive ingredients can differ, which can matter for allergies or tolerability. A clinician or pharmacist can help you compare options.
Can I take sildenafil with nitroglycerin or other nitrates?
No. Sildenafil must not be used with nitrates because the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Tell your clinician if you use nitrates or have needed them for chest pain.
Does Vitals Vault provide brand Viagra?
Viagra is the brand name. Vitals Vault offers generic Sildenafil, the same active ingredient. A licensed clinician reviews your health history and decides whether treatment is appropriate for you, and availability depends on your state.