Viagra

Viagra is a leading treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED), containing the active ingredient sildenafil, known for effectively improving blood flow to the penis.

  • Enhances the ability to achieve an erection through increased blood flow.
  • Typically begins to take effect within 30 minutes and lasts for up to 4 hours.
  • Clinically proven to be effective for approximately 74% of men who use it.

Product details

Viagra, often referred to as the little blue pill, is available in various strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. It works by facilitating blood flow to the penis, helping men achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Simply take one tablet about an hour prior to sexual intercourse to enjoy its effects for up to four hours, provided that there is sexual arousal.

If you believe Viagra could help alleviate your erectile dysfunction, you can initiate an online consultation today. Our qualified doctors will assess your needs and provide a prescription if suitable. We offer discreet and fast delivery options, including next-day delivery or collection from your nearest Superdrug pharmacy within just two hours of receiving approval from our doctors.

Dr Babak Ashrafi Clinical Lead for Service Development

Last reviewed: 10 Jul 2024

Viagra prices

Explore our competitive pricing for different pack sizes of Viagra. Available dosages are 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg:

Pack Size Price
4 tablets from £19.99
8 tablets from £29.99
12 tablets from £45.00
16 tablets from £54.99
28 tablets from £90.00
40 tablets from £127.00
56 tablets from £175.00

Delivery Options

We offer swift and reliable delivery services. You can choose from next-day delivery options directly to your home or work address, ensuring that your privacy is maintained throughout the process. Delivery usually occurs via secure channels, providing tracking for your peace of mind.

How it Works

Understanding how Viagra works is essential for its effective usage. The tadalafil in Viagra operates by temporarily increasing blood flow to the penis upon sexual stimulation, facilitating the achievement of an erection.

About Viagra

What is Viagra?

Viagra is a prescription-only medication designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men, with clinical effectiveness demonstrated for around 74% of users. It works by boosting blood flow to the penis, allowing for the ability to achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused. Typically, Viagra takes about 60 minutes to start working, with effects lasting up to 4 hours.

Why do I need to get a prescription?

Due to its prescription-only status, a doctor must evaluate your suitability for Viagra to ensure it is safe for you. This is crucial as it may interact with certain medications or may be unsuitable if you have specific health conditions. An alternative version, Viagra Connect, can be accessed without a prescription after a consultation with a pharmacist.

What causes erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a common condition influenced by various physical and psychological factors, including obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, stress, anxiety, and depression. Often, multiple factors contribute to ED. For further information, read our doctors’ insights on the causes of erectile dysfunction.

How does Viagra work?

As a member of the class of medications known as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors, Viagra works by increasing blood flow to your penis to help facilitate an erection.

Upon consumption, sildenafil relaxes the smooth muscles in the blood vessels of the penis, enhancing blood flow which leads to an erection. Viagra is effective only in conjunction with sexual arousal; it doesn’t induce an erection by itself.

How effective is Viagra?

Studies indicate that Viagra 50mg is effective for 74% of men, while the 25mg dose yields a success rate of 62%, and the 100mg dose is effective for 82% of men compared to a placebo.

How to take Viagra

For optimal results, take Viagra approximately one hour before sexual activity. Swallow one tablet with water, ensuring not to exceed one tablet within a 24-hour period.

Taking Viagra on an empty stomach can enhance its effectiveness. If planning to eat, opt for a lighter meal rather than a heavy or greasy one as this can prolong the onset of action.

Alcohol consumption can adversely impact erectile function, even in individuals without ED, hence it is advisable to minimize intake when using Viagra.

When to take Viagra

Viagra generally takes about 30 to 60 minutes to become effective. It is advisable to administer the dose about an hour before anticipated sexual intercourse. Taking Viagra too far in advance may result in diminished effects by the time you want to have sex.

How long does Viagra take to work?

Viagra typically starts working within 30 to 60 minutes of ingestion. Individual factors such as arousal, food intake, and alcohol consumption can influence the timeframe for effectiveness.

How long does Viagra last?

Effects of Viagra can last for up to 4 hours, although various personal factors may influence this duration. Considerations such as age, overall health, diet, and alcohol intake may play a role in effectiveness.

How often to take Viagra

Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, taking Viagra no more than once daily. Exceeding the recommended amount can heighten the risk of severe side effects and complications, including potential permanent damage to the penis.

If you feel your prescribed dosage is insufficient or excessively strong, consult your doctor prior to any adjustment.

Viagra dosage

Viagra is available in three strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. While a higher dosage may yield stronger effects, it may also increase the risk of adverse effects. Exploring different dosages may help you determine the optimal strength for your needs.

Viagra 50mg

Typically the recommended starting dose for first-time users, 50mg is the most commonly prescribed dosage.

Viagra 25mg

This is the lowest available dose, suitable for those who may experience side effects with the higher dosage or for those concurrently taking other medications.

Viagra 100mg

This is the maximum dosage, often recommended for men who have found the lower doses ineffective.

Where can I buy Viagra?

Viagra can be purchased online or filled at most UK pharmacies through a valid prescription. Standard Viagra is not available on the NHS, except under specific circumstances. However, generic versions, such as sildenafil, are often available through NHS to treat erectile dysfunction.

Can I buy Viagra over the counter?

No, a prescription or doctor approval is required to obtain regular Viagra. However, Viagra Connect can be purchased over-the-counter after consulting with a pharmacist.

Side effects of Viagra

Not all individuals will experience side effects while taking Viagra. However, some may encounter mild to moderate reactions, which are more common at higher doses.

Common side effects (affecting up to 1 in 10 people) include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Flushing
  • Indigestion
  • Vision disturbances
  • Dizziness
  • Stuffy nose

Uncommon side effects (affecting up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Vomiting
  • Skin rash
  • Eye irritation
  • Rapid heartbeat

Rare side effects (affecting up to 1 in 1000 people):

  • Fainting
  • Heart attack
  • Irregular heartbeat

Seek immediate medical attention for serious side effects such as:

  • Chest pain
  • Prolonged painful erections
  • Loss of vision

For further information, refer to the patient information leaflet provided with your medication.

Viagra warnings

Viagra may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult your doctor before taking Viagra, especially if you:

  • Are younger than 18 years
  • Were assigned female at birth
  • Do not suffer from erectile dysfunction
  • Have severe heart or liver issues
  • Have a history of stroke or heart attack

Notify your healthcare provider if you have any of the following:

  • Sickle cell anemia
  • Any penile deformities
  • Stomach ulcers

Viagra may interact with some medications which could lessen its efficacy or pose significant health risks. Therefore, it is critical to inform your doctor if you are on medications such as:

  • Nitrates
  • Riociguat

Viagra alternatives

If Viagra is not suitable for you or if you seek longer-lasting results, several alternatives are available with a prescription:

Cheaper Alternative

Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra and is available as a generic medication, offering similar effectiveness and side effects at a reduced cost.

Other Prescription Treatments

At Superdrug Online Doctor, we offer various prescription medications for erectile dysfunction, including:

  • Cialis: Long-lasting effects up to 36 hours.
  • Spedra: Quick onset of action, effective in as little as 15 minutes.

Non-Prescription Options

Over-the-counter alternatives include:

  • Viagra Connect: Available without a prescription but requires a consultation.
  • Superdrug Sildenafil: Available at Superdrug pharmacies after a brief health assessment.

Viagra FAQs

Will Viagra affect my fertility?

According to the NHS, there is no evidence that Viagra impacts fertility.

What happens if a woman takes Viagra?

Viagra is not approved for use in women and can lead to serious side effects. Its efficacy in women has not been established.

Can I split Viagra tablets?

No, Viagra tablets should be taken whole with water. If a different dosage is required, consult your doctor.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Viagra?

While moderate alcohol consumption is permissible, excessive intake may worsen erectile dysfunction and delay Viagra’s effectiveness.

Can I take Viagra with other ED treatments?

No, Viagra should not be used with other ED medications. However, it can be safely used with devices like penis pumps.

Does Viagra go out of date?

Viagra typically has a shelf life of around two years. Always check the use-by date before consumption.

How should I store Viagra?

Store Viagra in a cool, dry location, out of children's reach, and keep it in its original packaging to protect it from moisture.

What is the difference between Viagra and sildenafil?

Viagra is a branded formulation of sildenafil. The generic version, sildenafil, is often more cost-effective while providing similar benefits.

Can you tell if a man has taken Viagra?

There are no definitive tests to determine Viagra consumption. If you have been with your partner for a while, they may notice an improvement in erectile function, but this isn’t always linked to having taken medication.

Sources

Patient Reviews

  • Sildenafil
  • Cialis
  • Viagra Connect
  • Avanafil
  • Levitra
  • Tadalafil

Further Reading on Erectile Dysfunction

  • Can You Take Viagra With Alcohol?
  • What Is The Blue Pill?
  • Does Viagra Make You Last Longer?
  • Female Viagra
  • Does Herbal Viagra Work?
  • How Long Does Viagra Last?
  • The Best Alternatives to Viagra
  • Viagra Dosage: What is the Right Dose for You?