
Viagra Price: How Much Is Viagra A Pill? | Ro









If you've been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction (ED), understanding the cost of treatment options is essential. One of the most recognized medications for ED is Viagra (generic name: sildenafil). This article explores how much it costs to buy Viagra per pill, factors that influence its price, and ways to potentially save on this medication.
What is Viagra?
Viagra is an oral prescription medication that effectively treats erectile dysfunction. After receiving approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1998, it became the first oral treatment for ED in the United States. Initially sold only under the brand name, Viagra is now also available in a more affordable generic form known as sildenafil.
Viagra is available in various dosages: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. It is typically recommended to be taken approximately 30–60 minutes before sexual activity, with effects lasting about 4–5 hours.
Understanding how Viagra works can provide insight into its effectiveness. This medication primarily targets phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5), an enzyme that, when uncontrolled, inhibits blood flow to the penis. By blocking PDE-5, Viagra enhances blood circulation, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting erection when sexual stimulation occurs.
How Much Does Viagra Cost?
The price of Viagra can vary widely based on several factors, including dosage, insurance coverage, and the pharmacy where it's purchased. Without insurance, the cost for a 30-pill supply of 100 mg Viagra can range from approximately $2,600 to $3,500, translating to around $86 to $116 per dose, according to GoodRx.
For individuals who infrequently use Viagra, monthly expenses may only amount to a few hundred dollars. However, those using it more regularly can quickly see their costs accumulate to several thousand dollars annually.
It is crucial to have a prescription to obtain Viagra. You should also consider the fees related to doctor’s visits. Online services like Ro offer discreet consultations and the option to purchase Viagra, with prices starting at $90 per dose, while generic sildenafil can start as low as $4 per dose, including free shipping.
Does Insurance Cover Viagra?
In most cases, traditional health insurance plans do not cover the brand-name version of Viagra; however, they may cover generic forms like sildenafil. This is applicable under Medicare Part D, which typically excludes brand-name medications but may include generics. It is always advisable to review your insurance policy to understand your specific coverage options.
How Well Does Viagra Work?
Erectile dysfunction is a common issue that many men will experience at some point. Research indicates that Viagra has a high effectiveness rate. For example, a study conducted in 2016 with over 11,000 men found that approximately 80% of men under 65 reported improved erections after 12 weeks of treatment. Similarly, a 2019 study showed that between 62.4% and 76.2% of participants experienced hard erections while using Viagra.
Improvements in sexual satisfaction, self-esteem, and relationship dynamics have also been reported among users, demonstrating the medication's potential benefits that extend beyond just physical erection capability.
Viagra vs. Sildenafil Cost
The cost of generic sildenafil is substantially lower than that of brand-name Viagra. As mentioned, sildenafil can be purchased starting at just $4 per dose through online services like Ro. The cost disparity is largely due to marketing costs associated with the branded version, which retains a higher price tag even when generics are available.
Generic medications are required by the FDA to be as safe and effective as their brand-name counterparts. In the case of Viagra and its generic form, the main differences lie in price and sometimes color.
Side Effects of Viagra
As with any medication, side effects may occur while taking Viagra. Common side effects include:
Headaches
Flushing
Dizziness
Upset stomach
Abnormal vision
More severe side effects are rare but can include priapism (a painful erection lasting longer than four hours), sudden vision loss, and hearing impairment. Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking and any pre-existing health conditions.
Viagra Alternatives
Other medications available for treating ED include:
Cialis (tadalafil)
Cialis offers a longer duration of action, remaining effective for up to 36 hours. Pricing for Cialis begins at $11 per dose, whereas generic tadalafil starts at around $8.
Levitra (vardenafil)
Levitra is similar in function to Viagra but is typically sold at a lower price, with costs starting at $51 for the brand name and $8 for the generic version.
Stendra (avanafil)
Stendra may act faster than Viagra and can be consumed 15 minutes before sexual activity, with pricing starting at $64 per dose. Currently, there is no generic version of Stendra available in the market.
How to Save Money on Viagra
While the price of Viagra can be relatively high, there are several strategies to help reduce costs:
Explore Generics: Opting for sildenafil instead of the brand-name Viagra can yield substantial savings. Check for Coupons: Pharmacies often provide coupons for Viagra. Platforms like GoodRx compile discounts and offer potential savings options. Utilize Telehealth Services: Services like Ro offer a convenient way to connect with healthcare providers to obtain prescriptions at lower prices, which are shipped directly to your home. Consider Alternative Medications: Consult with your healthcare provider to explore whether other ED medications may be more economical or suitable for your individual needs.With these options available, obtaining a prescription for either Viagra or its generic counterpart can be both straightforward and cost-effective. Speak to a healthcare provider today to discuss what treatment may be right for you!
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding the medications and treatments appropriate for your specific health condition.
References
- Capogrosso, P., et al. (2013). One patient out of four with newly diagnosed erectile dysfunction is a young man. The Journal of Sexual Medicine.
- Goldstein, I., et al. (2016). Efficacy and Safety of Sildenafil by Age in Men With Erectile Dysfunction. The Journal of Sexual Medicine.
- McMahon, C. G. (2019). Current diagnosis and management of erectile dysfunction. The Medical Journal of Australia.
- U.S. FDA. (2021). Generic drugs: questions and answers.
- Saha, A. & Xu, Y. (2021). The ‘Generic Competition Paradox’ Revisited. International Journal of the Economics of Business.