Sildenafil (generic Viagra) tablets to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Available in 25mg, 50mg and 100mg strengths
Sildenafil Tablets
In stock
- Clinically proven to improve erections in up to 75% of men with ED*
- Starts working in as little as 30–60 minutes, with effects lasting up to 4 hours
- A simple tablet treatment with no injections or complicated routines
- Helps you get and keep an erection
- Fast, discreet delivery
- 100% UK-based pharmacy
- Free advice and support
- We're rated 4.9 out of 5
Based on over 30,000 reviews collected on Google and Reviews.io.
Sildenafil Tablets: Overview
£5.99
Erectile difficulties are extremely common and can happen for many different reasons, including stress, anxiety, ageing or underlying health conditions. For many men, ED can affect more than just sex, it can impact confidence, relationships and overall wellbeing.
Sildenafil works by increasing blood flow to the penis and is clinically proven to improve erections in up to 75% of men with ED.* It typically starts working within 30–60 minutes and lasts for up to 4 hours. Available in 25mg, 50mg and 100mg strengths, sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra and may be prescribed online in the UK following a short medical consultation.
*Fink HA et al, Sildenafil for male erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of General Practice.
Who Is Sildenafil Tablets Suitable For?
Maximums per order:
- 16
- 16
- 16
Consultation required?Yes
Generic Treatment?Yes
Sildenafil Tablets (25mg, 50mg, 100mg) Summary
Sildenafil Tablets: Information
What Are Sildenafil Tablets?
Sildenafil tablets are a clinically proven treatment for ED, helping men get and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated. Sildenafil is one of the most widely used ED treatments in the UK and is approved for use by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
It’s available in a choice of strength options:
- 25mg
- 50mg
- 100mg
To use sildenafil, you’ll need a prescription from a regulated pharmacy, such as The Independent Pharmacy. Following a short medical consultation, a prescriber will assess whether it’s safe and suitable for you, and recommend the most appropriate dosage for your needs.
How Does Sildenafil Work?
Getting and maintaining an erection requires a significant amount of blood to be able to flow to and fill the spongy cells inside your penis. However, there are a range of factors that may prevent this blood flow, and this may cause erection difficulties – which is known as erectile dysfunction.
Sildenafil tablets belong to a group of medicines called PDE-5 inhibitors. These block an enzyme that leads to improved blood flow to the penis and therefore help you get and maintain an erection.
In most cases, sildenafil starts working in 30–60 minutes and remains effective for 4 hours. However, you still need to be sexually aroused for the treatment to be effective.
How To Take Sildenafil
- Swallow sildenafil tablets whole with water 30–60 minutes before having sex.
- While you can take sildenafil with food, it may take longer to get to work if taken when eating a large meal.
- Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be avoided as these can interact with sildenafil in ways that can make it less effective.
- You should not take sildenafil more than once a day.
Sildenafil Ingredients
Active ingredient: Sildenafil citrate in 25mg, 50mg or 100mg doses.
Other ingredients include:Lactose monohydrate, hypromellose 15cP, titanium dioxide (E171), triacetin
Generic product disclaimer
Sildenafil Side Effects
Very common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people) include:
- Headache
Usually mild and often improves over time. You may find it helpful to:
- Drink plenty of water
- Take paracetamol
- Speak to your prescriber about lowering your dose or trying an alternative PDE-5 inhibitor if headaches continue
Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people) include:
- Nausea
- Facial flushing
- Hot flushes (a sudden feeling of heat in your upper body)
- Indigestion
- Stuffy nose
- Dizziness
- Visual disturbance (including a colour tinge to your vision or blurred vision)
NB: In regards to visual disturbances, some men may notice blurred vision or a blue or coloured tinge to their vision when taking sildenafil. Although this can sound worrying, it is a recognised side effect and is usually temporary.
Sildenafil Warnings
You should consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking sIldenafil if you have:
- Sickle cell anaemia
- Leukaemia
- Multiple myeloma
- A deformity of the penis or Peyronie’s Disease
- An existing heart condition
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Chest pains
- Kidney or liver conditions
Sildenafil is for use by men over the age of 18 with ED. You should not use this treatment if you:
- Are a woman
- Are under the age of 18
- Do not have ED
Sildenafil can interfere with some medications, most commonly those used to treat chest pain (nitrates). As such, you should not take these in conjunction as they may lead to a dangerous fall in blood pressure.
In the event of a medical emergency, you should tell your doctor or pharmacist that you have taken sildenafil, the dosage and when it was taken.
For a full list of warnings and side effects, please see the Patient Information Leaflet.
Sildenafil Alternatives
Finding the right ED treatment can take time. Compare sildenafil with other commonly prescribed erectile dysfunction treatments to understand the differences in how they work, how long they last and which option may suit you best.
Sildenafil Vs Viagra
Sildenafil and Viagra contain the same active ingredient – sildenafil citrate – and work in exactly the same way to treat ED. Both treatments increase blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, helping men get and maintain an erection.
Feature | Sildenafil | |
Active ingredient | Sildenafil citrate | Sildenafil citrate |
Type of treatment | PDE-5 inhibitor | PDE-5 inhibitor |
How it works | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen |
Effective within | 30–60 minutes for up to 4 hours | 30–60 minutes for up to 4 hours |
Available strengths | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg |
Generic or branded | Generic | Branded |
Effectiveness | Clinical studies found sildenafil improved erections in roughly 60–75% of men with erectile dysfunction¹ | Clinical studies found sildenafil improved erections in roughly 60–75% of men with erectile dysfunction¹ |
Approved for ED in the UK | Yes | Yes |
Sildenafil Vs Tadalafil
Sildenafil and tadalafil are both clinically proven treatments for ED and belong to a group of medicines called PDE-5 inhibitors. They work in similar ways by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. The main difference between the two treatments is how long they last.
Feature | Sildenafil | |
Active ingredient | Sildenafil citrate | Tadalafil |
Type of treatment | PDE-5 inhibitor | PDE-5 inhibitor |
How it works | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen |
Effective within | 30–60 minutes for up to 4 hours | 30–60 minutes for up to 36 hours |
Available strengths | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg | 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg |
Generic or branded | Generic | Generic |
Effectiveness | Clinical studies found sildenafil improved erections in roughly 60–75% of men with erectile dysfunction¹ | Clinical studies found tadalafil significantly improved erectile function in men with ED² |
Approved for ED in the UK | Yes | Yes |
Sildenafil Vs Cialis
Sildenafil and Cialis are both effective treatments for ED that work by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra, while Cialis is the branded version of tadalafil. The main difference between sildenafil and Cialis is how long they last.
Feature | Sildenafil | |
Active ingredient | Sildenafil citrate | Tadalafil |
Type of treatment | PDE-5 inhibitor | PDE-5 inhibitor |
How it works | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen |
Effective within | 30–60 minutes for up to 4 hours | 30–60 minutes for up to 36 hours |
Available strengths | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg | 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg |
Generic or branded | Generic | Branded |
Effectiveness | Clinical studies found sildenafil improved erections in roughly 60–75% of men with erectile dysfunction¹ | Clinical studies found tadalafil significantly improved erectile function in men with ED² |
Approved for ED in the UK | Yes | Yes |
Sildenafil Vs Spedra
Sildenafil and Spedra are both prescription treatments for ED that belong to a group of medicines called PDE-5 inhibitors.
One of the main differences between the two treatments is how quickly they work. Sildenafil usually starts working within 30–60 minutes, while Spedra may start working in as little as 15–30 minutes for some men. Because of this, Spedra is sometimes preferred by men looking for a faster-acting treatment.
Feature | Sildenafil | |
Active ingredient | Sildenafil citrate | Avanafil |
Type of treatment | PDE-5 inhibitor | PDE-5 inhibitor |
How it works | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen |
Effective within | 30–60 minutes for up to 4 hours | As little as 15–30 minutes for up to 6 hours |
Available strengths | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg | 50mg, 100mg, 200mg |
Generic or branded | Generic | Branded |
Effectiveness | Clinical studies found sildenafil improved erections in roughly 60–75% of men with erectile dysfunction¹ | Clinical studies found avanafil (Spedra) significantly improved erectile function and successful intercourse rates in men with ED compared with placebo³ |
Approved for ED in the UK | Yes | Yes |
Sildenafil Vs Vitaros Cream
Sildenafil and Vitaros Cream are both treatments for ED, but they work in different ways and are taken differently. Sildenafil is a tablet taken by mouth before sex, while Vitaros is a topical cream applied directly to the tip of the penis.
Feature | Sildenafil | |
Active ingredient | Sildenafil citrate | Alprostadil |
Type of treatment | PDE-5 inhibitor | Prostaglandin analogue |
How it works | Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen | Vitaros contains alprostadil, which helps widen blood vessels in the penis to help produce an erection |
Effective within | 30–60 minutes for up to 4 hours | 5 to 30 minutes |
Available strengths | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg | 3mg |
Generic or branded | Generic | Branded |
Effectiveness | Clinical studies found sildenafil improved erections in roughly 60–75% of men with erectile dysfunction¹ | Clinical studies found around 31–40% of men using alprostadil cream achieved clinically meaningful improvements in erectile function⁴ |
Approved for ED in the UK | Yes | Yes |
Other Sildenafil Alternatives
If you’d prefer not to take medication for ED, there are other treatment options and lifestyle changes that may help improve your erections and sexual wellbeing.
Penis pumps and rings: Penis pumps and constriction rings may help improve erections by increasing blood flow to the penis. They can be used on their own or alongside ED medication in some cases.
Lifestyle changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes may improve ED symptoms, particularly when it’s linked to circulation or overall health. Helpful changes may include:
- Stopping smoking
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Improving your diet
- Exercising regularly
Therapy and emotional support: For some men, ED can be caused or made worse by stress, anxiety, low mood or relationship difficulties. Speaking to a therapist or counsellor may help address the psychological factors contributing to ED symptoms.
How To Buy Sildenafil
Can I buy sildenafil online?
Yes, you can buy sildenafil online from a regulated online pharmacy, including The Independent Pharmacy. Following a short medical assessment, a pharmacist will check that the medication is appropriate for you before prescribing it.
Can I buy sildenafil over-the-counter?
No, sildenafil is a prescription-only medication. This means it has to be prescribed by a pharmacist who can check it is safe and suitable for you.
Can I get sildenafil on the NHS?
Yes, you can be prescribed sildenafil on the NHS. You will need to visit your GP or an NHS sexual health clinic.
If you’re eligible for sildenafil on the NHS, you’ll need to pay the current NHS prescription charge unless you’re usually entitled to free prescriptions.
Sildenafil Tablets reviews
Sildenafil Tablets (25mg, 50mg & 100mg) FAQs
Can I buy sildenafil online in the UK?
Yes, you can buy sildenafil online in the UK through registered online pharmacies, such as The Independent Pharmacy. You’ll need to complete a short medical assessment so a pharmacist or prescriber can check the treatment is safe and suitable for you.
Is sildenafil prescription only in the UK?
Most sildenafil tablets are prescription-only in the UK. However, some sildenafil products, such as Viagra Connect 50mg, may be available from pharmacies without a prescription following a pharmacist assessment.
Is it safe to buy sildenafil online?
Yes, it’s safe to buy sildenafil online, but only from regulated, licensed and registered online pharmacies, such as The Independent Pharmacy.
Avoid websites that sell sildenafil without any medical checks or that are unusually cheap. Counterfeit ED medicines may contain unsafe or incorrect ingredients.
Ensure any products you buy are approved by the MHRA and you choose a pharmacy registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
Is sildenafil stronger than Viagra?
Sildenafil is medically identical to Viagra. Both:
- Contain the same active ingredient (sildenafil citrate)
- Offer the same effectiveness
- Have identical side effects.
Viagra is the brand-name version, while sildenafil is the generic medicine.
How effective is sildenafil?
Sildenafil works by affecting the enzymes that control the blood vessels in the penis. By enabling blood flow to the penis, you’re more likely to be able to get and keep an erection long enough for satisfactory sex. Studies show that sildenafil is effective in around 60–75% of men with ED.¹
How quickly does sildenafil work?
Sildenafil typically gets to work within 30–60 minutes of the tablet being swallowed. If you’ve taken sildenafil with large quantities of food, it may take longer to take effect and so it could be longer before you’re able to get an erection.
Can I take sildenafil with other medicines?
You shouldn’t take sildenafil with other medications unless your prescriber has told you that it’s safe to do so. Sildenafil can interact with other medications, especially nitrates used in the treatment of chest pains and may result in a dangerously low drop in blood pressure.
What if sildenafil doesn't work the first time?
If sildenafil doesn't work for you the first time it may be because:
- You’ve not waited long enough for it to get to work before attempting to have sex
- You’ve waited too long after taking it
- The dose was not high enough for your needs
- You weren’t sufficiently sexually aroused
Being anxious or stressed can prevent sexual arousal and may therefore make sildenafil less effective. It’s still important to be aroused and as relaxed as possible. You might find it useful to read our guide, What to Expect The First Time You Take Sildenafil.
Will sildenafil affect my fertility?
No. There’s no clear evidence stating that sildenafil affects the fertility of men who take it.
How long can I take sildenafil for?
Sildenafil is commonly prescribed for long-term use when taken as directed. There’s no evidence to suggest that taking sildenafil in accordance with dosage guidelines has any negative effects over the span of many months or even years.
What's the difference between the different strengths of sildenafil?
The different strengths of sildenafil (25mg, 50mg, 100mg) refer to the amount of the active ingredient present in each tablet. 50mg is a common starting dose for most men with ED, and this may be increased or decreased depending on your needs.
You can find out more in our Sildenafil Dosage | What Is The Right Dose For Your ED guide.
Are there any alternatives to sildenafil?
There are several alternatives to sildenafil ranging from alternative medications to non-medical alternatives.
Medical alternatives include the generic medications:
- Tadalafil (often sold under the brand name Cialis)
- Vardenafil (often sold under the brand name (Levitra)
These are also PDE-5 inhibitors and work in the same ways. However, studies show that the effects of tadalafil are longer-lasting with effects lasting up to 36 hours.
Feature
Sildenafil
Tadalafil
Vardenafil
Hezkue Liquid Spray
Active ingredient
Sildenafil citrate
Tadalafil
Vardenafil
Sildenafil citrate
Type of treatment
PDE-5 inhibitor
PDE-5 inhibitor
PDE-5 inhibitor
PDE-5 inhibitor
Format
Tablet
Tablet
Tablet
Oral spray
How it works
Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen
Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen
Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen
Improves blood flow – mainly by helping blood vessels relax and widen
Effective within
30–60 minutes for up to 4 hours
30–60 minutes for up to 36 hours
25–60 minutes for up to 4–6 hours
5-20 minutes for 4–5 hours
Available strengths
25mg, 50mg, 100mg
2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg
5mg, 10mg, 20mg
Starting dose 25mg, adjustable to 50mg or 100mg
Generic or branded
Generic
Generic
Generic
Branded
Effectiveness
Clinical studies found sildenafil improved erections in roughly 60–75% of men with erectile dysfunction¹
Clinical studies found tadalafil significantly improved erectile function in men with ED²
Clinical studies found vardenafil significantly improved erectile function in men with ED⁵
Clinical studies found sildenafil improved erections in roughly 60–75% of men with erectile dysfunction¹
Approved for ED in the UK
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Other non-medical alternatives include penis pumps that use suction to draw blood flow to the penis, or penile rings that inhibit the flow of blood away from the penis for longer-lasting erections.
How do I buy sildenafil tablets (25mg, 50mg & 100mg) online?
It's quick and easy to make sure that sildenafil is the right ED treatment for you, before deciding on a dosage that best fits your needs.
Simply fill in a short online consultation to make sure that this treatment is a good fit for you. The process is quick, easy and completely confidential.
Can I drink alcohol with sildenafil?
Ideally you shouldn’t drink alcohol when taking sildenafil or drink only a small amount (one or two units). Alcohol tends to reduce erections and the effectiveness of treatment. Also, some side effects of sildenafil are likely to increase with alcohol, such as low blood pressure.
Is sildenafil addictive?
There’s no evidence to suggest any ED medicines, including sildenafil, are physically addictive.
How long does it take for sildenafil to work?
Taken on an empty stomach, sildenafil should become effective within 30 minutes and take full effect within the hour. If you’ve eaten recently, it might take longer to reach maximum effect.
You can read more in our guide, Sildenafil - How Long Does It Last and How Long it Takes to Work.
What are the side effects of sildenafil?
Like any medicine, sildenafil comes with a risk of possible side effects. Make sure to read the Patient Information Leaflet in your treatment box for full details on possible side effects before taking sildenafil.
Common side effects include:
- Facial flushing
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Stuffy nose
- Indigestion
- A pounding heartbeat
- Sometimes, blurred vision and blue halos appear around bright lights
Chest pain is an uncommon, but potentially serious, side effect. If the pain continues beyond 15 minutes then call 999.
You can read our blog, Sildenafil Side Effects: A Complete Guide, to find out more.
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Sildenafil Price Comparison
View all the available prices for Sildenafil 25mg, 50mg, & 100mg tablets from The Independent Pharmacy.
Sildenafil 25mg Tablets (Generic Viagra)
Save up to 33%Sildenafil 50mg Tablets (Generic Viagra)
Save up to 54%Sildenafil 100mg Tablets (Generic Viagra)
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We stock 16 other treatments for Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Visit our Erectile Dysfunction (ED) page for treatments, advice and FAQs.
Read our Sildenafil guides
Our expert clinical team have published a range of reviewed and clinically-sourced information on Sildenafil to ensure you have all the information you need to decide on your treatment.
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- Sources
- Fink HA et al, Sildenafil for male erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis
- Ma J et al. Role of application of tadalafil 5 mg once-daily in men with erectile dysfunction from six randomized controlled trials
- Corona G et al. The safety and efficacy of avanafil, a new 2nd generation PDE5 inhibitor, in erectile dysfunction
- Moncada I et al. Clinical efficacy and safety of Vitaros©/Virirec© (Alprostadil cream) for the treatment of erectile dysfunction
- Donatucci C et al. Vardenafil improves erectile function in men with erectile dysfunction irrespective of disease severity and disease classification