Sildenafil Tablets

Sildenafil tablets are an effective prescription ED treatment, helping men achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused.

As the generic version of Viagra, sildenafil works quickly for most men, usually within 30–60 minutes, and its effects last around 4-6 hours. It’s a popular option for those who want a reliable treatment taken only when needed.

You can buy sildenafil online through the Online Men’s Clinic following a free medical consultation. If approved, your prescription is issued by a UK-registered prescriber and delivered discreetly, with next-day UK delivery available.

  • Generic alternative to Viagra at a lower cost
  • Lasts up to 4-6 hours
  • Effective treatment for erectile dysfunction
  • Fast-acting, works within 30-60 minutes
  • Available in 25mg, 50mg and 100mg doses
  • Simple oral tablet, no injections or devices
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Nazmul Kadir

Nazmul Kadir

Director & Superintendent Pharmacist

OverviewOverview

Sildenafil is a prescription-only medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men. It is the generic version of Viagra and contains the same active ingredient, offering the same effectiveness at a more affordable price.

Sildenafil works by increasing blood flow to the penis, making it easier to get and keep an erection when sexually aroused. It belongs to a group of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors and only works when sexual stimulation occurs.

One of the key benefits of sildenafil tablets is their fast onset of action. Most men find they start working within 30–60 minutes. The effects usually last for up to 4–6 hours, providing a clear window for sexual activity without prolonged effects.

Sildenafil tablets are taken when needed rather than daily and are available in different strengths to suit individual needs.

Available strengths

  • Sildenafil 25mg – Lower starting dose for men sensitive to side effects
  • Sildenafil 50mg – Standard starting dose for most men
  • Sildenafil 100mg – Higher dose for men who need a stronger effect

Your prescriber will recommend the most suitable dose based on your health, lifestyle, and response to treatment.

Key points

  • Prescription-only erectile dysfunction treatment
  • Active ingredient: sildenafil (generic Viagra)
  • Works within 30–60 minutes
  • Lasts up to 4–6 hours
  • Taken only when needed
  • Suitable for adult men aged 18+, subject to medical assessment
  • Sildenafil is available to buy online following a free consultation  

Patient Information Leaflet

 

For full details on safe use, side effects, warnings, and ingredients, read the official Sildenafil Patient Information Leaflet before starting treatment.

The leaflet is supplied with your medication and should be kept for future reference.

Warnings & Interactions

Do not take sildenafil if you:

  • Take nitrate medicines for chest pain or heart problems  
  • Are using riociguat
  • Have been advised to avoid sexual activity for medical reasons

Speak to your prescriber before taking sildenafil if you:

  • Have heart disease or irregular heartbeat      
  • Have low or high blood pressure
  • Have liver or kidney problems    
  • Have had a recent heart attack or stroke
  • Have a blood disorder such as sickle cell anaemia or leukaemia

Medicine interactions

Sildenafil can interact with certain medicines, including:

  • Nitrates and nitric oxide donors
  • Alpha-blockers
  • Some antifungal or antibiotic medicines
  • HIV protease inhibitors
  • Other erectile dysfunction treatments

Combining sildenafil with these medicines can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure.

Alcohol and sildenafil

Moderate alcohol intake is generally tolerated, but excessive drinking may reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or headache.

Directions of Use

How to take sildenafil

  • Swallow the tablet whole with water
  • Can be taken with or without food, though a heavy or fatty meal may delay its effect
  • Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, which may affect absorption

Using sildenafil 25mg, 50mg or 100mg

  • Take one tablet around 30–60 minutes before sexual activity
  • Sildenafil can be taken up to 4 hours before sex
  • Sexual stimulation is required for it to work
  • Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours

Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your prescriber. Do not adjust your dose without medical advice.

Ingredients

Active ingredient

  • Sildenafil (as sildenafil citrate)

Each tablet contains one of the following strengths:

  • 25mg
  • 50mg
  • 100mg

Other ingredients

Sildenafil tablets also contain inactive ingredients that help form the tablet, which may include lactose.

If you have any known allergies or intolerances, speak to a pharmacist before starting treatment. Always read the Patient Information Leaflet supplied with your medication.

Alternatives

If sildenafil tablets are not suitable for you, your prescriber can help you compare other erectile dysfunction treatments during your free online consultation.

Prescription alternatives

  • Tadalafil – Longer-lasting ED treatment, works for up to 36 hours
  • Vardenafil – Similar to sildenafil with a different side-effect profile
  • Avanafil (Spedra) – A newer ED medication that may work more quickly
  • Viagra – Branded version of sildenafil

Over-the-counter options
 

  • Viagra Connect (50mg)
  • Cialis Together (10mg)
  • Eroxon Stimgel

Prescription treatments like sildenafil generally provide more reliable and consistent results for moderate to severe erectile dysfunction.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, sildenafil can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Side effects are usually mild to moderate and often improve as your body adjusts.

Common side effects


May affect up to 1 in 10 people:

  • Headache
  • Flushing (warmth or redness of the face)
  • Indigestion or upset stomach
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Dizziness

Less common but serious side effects

Stop taking sildenafil and seek urgent medical help if you experience:

  • Chest pain during sexual activity
  • Sudden vision loss or changes in eyesight
  • Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears
  • An erection lasting longer than 4 hours (priapism)

A full list of possible side effects is available in the Patient Information Leaflet.

FAQs

What are sildenafil tablets used for?

Sildenafil tablets are used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men. They increase blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated.

Can I buy sildenafil online in the UK?

Yes. You can buy sildenafil online through Online Men’s Pharmacy after completing a free medical consultation. If approved, your prescription is issued by a UK-registered prescriber and delivered discreetly.

How long does sildenafil take to work?

Sildenafil usually starts working within 30–60 minutes. Sexual stimulation is required for it to be effective.

How long does sildenafil last?

The effects of sildenafil typically last for 4–6 hours.

Can I take sildenafil every day?

Sildenafil is intended to be taken only when needed. Do not take more than one dose within 24 hours unless advised by your prescriber.

Is sildenafil the same as Viagra?

Yes. Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra. Generic sildenafil tablets work in the same way but are usually more affordable.

Is it safe to buy sildenafil pills online?

Yes, provided the medication is prescribed by a UK-registered prescriber following a medical consultation. Online Men’s Clinic only supplies regulated, genuine medication.

Who should not take sildenafil?

Men taking nitrates, those with certain heart conditions, or those advised to avoid sexual activity should not take sildenafil. Suitability is assessed during your consultation.

Author Information

All of our medication and condition content is written by UK qualified pharmacists and doctors.

Nazmul Kadir

Authored by

Nazmul Kadir

Director & Superintendent Pharmacist

GPhC Number: 2215377

Fahmida Kadir

Reviewed by

Fahmida Kadir

Deputy Superintendent Pharmacist

GPhC Number: 2219511

Review Date 1 January 2025
Next Review 1 January 2026
Published on 1 January 2025
Last Update 1 January 2025

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