
In the US around 40% of men aged 40 are estimated to have erectile dysfunction. The condition worsens with age, and individuals with the condition are unable to achieve or sustain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Prescription medication for the condition includes Viagra, that is one of the most well-known and widely prescribed medications for ED. The branded formulation is regarded as expensive by certain users who look for generic versions that are relatively cheap. Here is a detailed look at the medication, including answers to the question – is generic Viagra available in the U.S.?
Overview of Viagra
Sildenafil citrate, belonging to the class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors is the active ingredient in Viagra. The drug works by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, allowing increased blood flow and facilitating an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. The medication has been proven to be effective in the majority of men with ED. Clinical studies have demonstrated its ability to improve erectile function and enhance sexual performance.
Typical dosage
Available as tablets, Viagra is typically taken with or without food. The recommended starting dose is 50 mg, although the dosage is adjusted based on individual response and tolerability. The drug generally takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. The duration of action of Viagra lasts up to 4 to 6 hours, permitting good sexual activity during this period. Viagra does not cause spontaneous erections; and it is necessary for sufficient sexual stimulation to achieve an erection.
Possible side effects
All medications come with the possibility of undesirable outcomes and Viagra is no exception, with potential side effects. Commonly reported side effects include headaches, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, and visual disturbances. While serious side effects are rare, the possibility is not ruled out. This includes priapism wherein the individual experiences prolonged and painful erection. Other effects include sudden vision or hearing loss. Individuals with existing health conditions and on medications are to seek specific advice regarding use of the PDE5 inhibitor.
Difference between Viagra and generic formulations
Before looking at availability of generic versions, it is important to understand the key differences between branded and generic formulations. The main difference between Viagra and generic formulations lies in the brand name and price, as well as potential variations in inactive ingredients. Viagra and generic versions contain the same active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, and treat erectile dysfunction with similar efficacy.
- Viagra is the brand name of the medication originally developed by Pfizer. It was the first medication approved for the treatment of ED. Generic formulations, on the other hand, are produced by different pharmaceutical companies and sold under various brand names.
- A significant difference between Viagra and generic formulations is the cost. Generic versions of sildenafil citrate tend to be less expensive compared to the brand-name Viagra.
- While the active ingredient is the same in both formulations, generic formulations may contain different inactive ingredients than Viagra. These inactive ingredients, such as fillers, binders, and coloring agents, are generally considered safe and do not impact the effectiveness of the medication.
- Generic medications are expected to deliver bioequivalence to the brand-name drug, and contain the same active ingredient in the same strength with similar pharmacokinetic properties. This ensures that generic formulations are as safe and effective as the brand-name drug.
How long does it take for a branded formulation to become available as generic?
The timeline for a branded formulation to become available as a generic medication varies and depends on various factors, including patent protection and regulatory processes.
#1 Patent Protection:
When a pharmaceutical company develops a new medication, a patent is obtained to protect the company’s investment in research, development, and marketing. The patent grants exclusive rights to the company to manufacture and sell the medication for a specific period, typically 20 years from the date of filing. During this time, other companies are prohibited from producing generic versions of the drug.
#2 Patent Expiry:
After the patent for a branded formulation expires, other pharmaceutical companies can apply to produce generic versions of the medication. The expiry of the patent creates possibilities for lower-cost alternatives for consumers.
#3 Regulatory Approval:
Before generic medications are made available, the drugs must undergo regulatory approval from the relevant authorities. This process involves demonstrating bioequivalence, with the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the branded formulation. The regulatory authority then evaluates the safety, efficacy, and quality of the generic medication before granting approval.
Is generic Viagra available in the U.S.?
Yes, generic Viagra is available in the United States. The generic version of Viagra is called sildenafil citrate, the active ingredient in Viagra. After the patent for Viagra expired in 2019, several pharmaceutical companies commenced manufacturing and selling generic versions of the medication.
Generic sildenafil citrate is prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and is available in various strengths, ranging from 20 mg to 100 mg. The generic version contains the same active ingredient as Viagra, and may be sold under different brand names.
Cost of Viagra in the US and cost of generic version in the US
The cost of Viagra and its generic versions can vary depending on several factors, including the dosage strength, quantity, pharmacy, and any applicable insurance coverage or discounts.
Viagra – Without insurance, the average retail price for a 30-day supply comprising six pills of Viagra 100 mg ranges from approximately $380 to $420.
Viagra – With insurance, the average cost may vary based on individual insurance plans, with copayments typically ranging from $20 to $50 per prescription.
Generic Viagra – Without insurance, the average retail price for a 30-day supply comprising six pills of 100 mg ranges from approximately $20 to $70.
Generic Viagra – With insurance, the copayments for generic sildenafil can vary depending on insurance coverage, but could range from $5 to $30 per prescription.
Prices may differ between different pharmacies, and discounts or savings programs may cut down costs further. The actual costs can also be reduced further by sourcing from different sources such as online pharmacies, prescription savings cards, or manufacturer discounts.