Viagra online: discreet prescriptions for ED with top MDs

Book an appointment online with one of our board-certified doctors to discuss your symptoms and see if Viagra is right for you. We offer prescription discounts for FDA-approved Viagra (sildenafil), available for pickup at a local pharmacy of your choice.

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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. Physician review is for medical accuracy and not for the endorsement of any particular drug.

Viagra online prescriptions: convenient ED treatment with qualified doctors

  • It’s important to get expert, compassionate treatment from a doctor who will consider your health history, any other prescriptions you may take, and the underlying causes of your erectile dysfunction symptoms to help you decide the best treatment plan for you. 

  • Key takeaways

    • Our board-certified physicians frequently help patients with erectile dysfunction and are expertly qualified to help them decide if Viagra is the right treatment for them. 

    • ED is common in men of all ages, but more frequent and persistent in men over 50.  

    • Viagra is a popular and effective erectile dysfunction prescription. It takes about 30 to 60 minutes to work. Its benefits can last up to five hours.  

    • Viagra helps increase blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain an adequate erection to enjoy sex with your partner. 

    • Sometimes, Viagra or other medications aren’t necessary or the right way to treat ED. There may be other medications, underlying health conditions, or other issues affecting your sexual performance. 

    • Avoid non-reputable Viagra vendors online. Many have very little oversight and may even provide counterfeit prescriptions.   

Viagra (sildenafil) for ED: a proven treatment to increase penile blood flow

Viagra, a popular medication for ED, contains sildenafil with citrate as its active component. Sildenafil works by enhancing blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain an erection.

While Viagra is the most prescribed treatment for erectile dysfunction, other medications include vardenafil (Levitra), tadalafil (Cialis), and avanafil (Stendra). Our doctors may recommend that you experiment with different dosages and prescriptions of ED medications to get the best results.

Beyond its primary use for ED, Viagra is also used in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the lung arteries by widening the blood vessels in the lungs, consequently mitigating pressure on the heart's right ventricle. It is also used off-label to address conditions like Raynaud's phenomenon and altitude sickness.

Your online Viagra prescription: how it works

Step 1: Book an appointment

Step 1

Schedule your consultation for a Viagra prescription.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2: Visit with a doctor on your smartphone

Step 2

Consult with a board-certified physician.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3: pick up at local pharmacy

Step 3

Pick up your Viagra prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Generic Viagra: is sildenafil safe and effective?

Sildenafil citrate is the active component in the brand-name medication Viagra. When Pfizer’s Viagra patent expired in 2020, the generic form of the drug became available, allowing more affordable options on the market.

The generic form of sildenafil is just as safe as Viagra when used as our doctors prescribe it – if you buy it from a reputable pharmacy. Counterfeit sildenafil is trafficked around the world at shocking rates, especially at online pharmacies, with no regard for either safety or efficacy. The only sure way to know if your sildenafil is authentic is to have it prescribed from a trusted source.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has confiscated counterfeit Viagra pills on multiple occasions. The FDA has also reported that many sexual enhancement supplements sold online contain undisclosed ingredients, posing significant health risks.

Here are some practical tips to avoid counterfeit drugs:  

  • Consult one of our licensed physicians 

  • Choose a reputable, licensed pharmacy that requires a prescription 

  • Opt for a pharmacy with a U.S. address 

  • Ensure the medications are FDA-approved 

  • Verify clearly labeled containers with the drug name and dosage 

  • Talk to a licensed pharmacist

How to use Viagra for best results

  • How to use Viagra for best results

    Viagra is easy to use once you know how to take it safely and effectively. To maximize Viagra's effectiveness, remember these key points:  

    • Viagra is most effective when taken 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity (but no more than four hours before).  

    • Consuming high-fat foods can delay Viagra's effects and slow down absorption. Don't be disheartened if Viagra doesn't work perfectly the first time, especially if you're feeling anxious.  

    • Be cautious of potential drug interactions with Viagra. Always inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before using Viagra or similar ED treatments. 

    • While Viagra may cause mild and temporary side effects, combining ED medications with a healthy lifestyle enhances their efficacy.


    If you encounter any issues with Viagra, talk to one of our board-certified doctors as you might need your dosage adjusted or an alternative ED medication prescription. Consult our doctors for dosage adjustments or alternative ED medications. 

  • Viagra sildenafil dosages: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg

    Viagra is commonly known as the "little blue pill" and is available in three strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. The typical dosage for erectile dysfunction is 50 mg, taken about an hour before sexual activity. Our doctors may adjust this based on your response, aiming for the lowest effective dose.

    The maximum recommended dosage of Viagra is 100 mg per day, but this may vary based on individual health conditions and medications. Always follow our doctor's prescribed dosage and do not exceed the maximum recommended dosage.

    Viagra is typically used as needed and can be a long-term solution for erectile dysfunction.

    In some cases, a lower dosage of Viagra is safer, especially for men who are elderly, have kidney or liver issues, take specific medications, or have certain medical conditions. If any of these factors apply to you, consult one of our doctors for a personalized dosage adjustment.

  • How long does it take Viagra to work?

    Viagra is rapidly absorbed into the body, with effects potentially beginning in as little as 30 minutes, though for some individuals, it could take a couple of hours.

    A study on Viagra revealed that approximately 70% of men experienced erections within 30 minutes, and over 80% achieved erections within 45 minutes. In most cases, the effects of Viagra become noticeable within an hour. Viagra only works when you are sexually aroused – it does not cause erections, instead it makes them easier to achieve and maintain. If you find that Viagra is not effective for you, talk to our doctors about alternative ED treatments. 

  • How long does Viagra last?

    On average, sildenafil typically remains effective for two to three hours before its effects diminish. Sometimes it can last up to five hours or longer, depending on dose and individual metabolism. While multiple erections may be possible with sildenafil, there’s no clear evidence that Viagra leads to improved sexual endurance. After sex, the body still requires a recovery period after ejaculation, known as the refractory period, lasting from minutes to potentially hours or even days. 

What are the pros and cons?

Viagra

Pros

  • Taken as needed

  • Lasts for up to 4-6 hours

  • Starts working within 30 to 60 minutes

  • Proven to help men with ED achieve and maintain an erection

Cons

  • Rarely, can cause vision disturbances 

  • Interacts with medications containing nitrates 

  • Rare but serious risk of a long and painful erection 

  • Helps ED symptoms, but doesn't cure the underlying cause 

Side effects of Viagra

Fortunately, the side effects associated with taking Viagra are typically mild. Most Viagra side effects are associated with dizziness and flushing.  Viagra has some common side effects. They may include:  

  • Headache or dizziness, especially when going from sitting to standing 

  • Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling sensation) 

  • Changes in vision 

  • Upset stomach 

  • Back or muscle pain 


 Other side effects, which are rare but can be severe, may include:  

  • Chest pain, nausea, and sweating 

  • Sudden vision loss 

  • Erection that lasts longer than four hours (priapism) 

  • Stroke 

  • Heart attack 

  • Low blood pressure 

  • Irregular heartbeat 

  • Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) 

  • Sudden hearing loss 

  • Severe allergic reaction 


Not everyone experiences these side effects, and the severity of the side effects can vary for different individuals. Most of these side effects subside within an hour for most men.   To minimize Viagra side effects, be sure to carefully follow our doctor's instructions. Only take one tablet every 24 hours and never combine Viagra with other ED medications or recreational drugs. Taking a lower dose, such as 25 mg, may reduce the risk of side effects.

Possible interactions: what to avoid while taking Viagra

  • Viagra has several drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with one of our board-certified doctors or pharmacists. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter medicines.

    Possible drug interactions with Viagra include: 

     


    It’s important to note never take Viagra with nitrate medicine. When taken together, these medications can cause a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure. 

  • Viagra and alcohol: do they interact?

    Viagra can generally be taken safely with moderate alcohol consumption. Consuming 15 or more alcoholic drinks weekly while using Viagra can increase the risk of side effects.

    The type of alcohol consumed can also affect the likelihood of side effects. For instance, a study showed that men who drank red wine did not encounter interactions with Viagra. Excessive alcohol intake can slow blood flow, making Viagra less effective.

    Chronic alcohol misuse can harm sexual function by disrupting blood circulation and nerve sensitivity, leading to symptoms of erectile dysfunction. A study on men with alcohol dependence revealed that over 72% of them experienced some form of sexual dysfunction.

    Our board-certified telehealth doctors take a holistic approach to erectile dysfunction to help you get the results you’re looking for.

How much does Viagra cost? Generic Viagra is effective and more affordable

Now that Viagra is available as the generic form, sildenafil citrate, it’s much more affordable.

Generic sildenafil offers the same benefits as brand-name Viagra and is just as safe. According to FDA regulations, generic drugs must mirror their brand-name counterparts in dosage, safety, efficacy, potency, stability, quality, and administration method.

The price of brand name Viagra can range from a few hundred dollars a month to over $1,000, depending on your dosage and frequency of sexual activity.

Since Viagra and generic sildenafil come in different dosages, the price can also fluctuate based on your prescribed dosage. Viagra comes in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg doses, ranging from $65 to $140+ per tablet at various pharmacies.

Viatris (the company that manufactures Viagra) offers the VIAGRA Savings Card for eligible patients, which can help reduce costs of the brand name medication.

Sildenafil, as a generic drug, is considerably less expensive. It’s typically priced between $20 and $100 per month. It starts at $4 per tablet for a 25 mg dose up to $10/tablet for the 100 mg highest dose.  

Viagra vs Cialis: comparing two effective ED medications

  • Viagra and Cialis are the most popular ED medications. They are both phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and work in a similar way.

    When arousal starts, the PDE5 inhibitors take effect, causing the relaxation of the penile smooth muscle. Blood flow to the penis increases, helping create an erection.

    Viagra was introduced in 1998 and is well-researched. It takes effect within an hour, with effects lasting around four to five hours. The active ingredient in Viagra, sildenafil, was initially exclusive to Pfizer until 2020 when its patent expired.

    Cialis was introduced in 2003 by Eli Lilly as an alternative medication for erectile dysfunction (ED). Eli Lilly held the patent for tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, until November 2017. Once the patent expired, other companies jumped into the market with generic versions. 

  • Cialis lasts longer than Viagra but may have more side effects

    Cialis comes in two formulations – one for on-demand use and another for daily consumption:  

    • On-demand Cialis offers a significant advantage over Viagra in that it lasts up to 36 hours, compared to the 4-5 hours for Viagra. This prolonged duration gives room for more spontaneity. Tadalafil also has a faster onset than sildenafil, typically working within 30 minutes. Food intake also doesn’t affect its effectiveness, unlike Viagra’s efficacy, which may be inhibited by fatty foods.  

    • Daily-use Cialis is recommended for men who are sexually active more than twice a week. With this daily dose, the medication reaches its full effect after approximately five days. This way, a consistent amount of the medication remains in the body, offering enhanced spontaneity. The initial dose for daily tadalafil is 2.5 mg once daily, but if this is ineffective, one of our board-certified doctors might increase it to 5 mg (about half the weight of a grain of table salt).


    However, Cialis also can result in more prolonged side effects, such as nausea, back pain, vision changes, headaches, stuffy nose, indigestion, and flushing. 

     Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons:  

    Viagra 

    Cialis

    Pros

    -Quick onset of action 

    -Effective for most men with ED 

    -Available in different dosage strengths 

    -Generally well-tolerated 

    -Longer duration of action 

    -Quicker onset of action 

    -Can be taken daily or as needed 

    -Less affected by food or alcohol intake 

    Cons

    -Shorter duration of action 

    -Should be taken on an empty stomach 

    -High-fat foods reduce its efficacy 

    -Less flexibility in timing sexual activity 

    -Higher cost compared to Viagra 

    -Higher potential for side effects like headaches, nasal congestion, back pain compared to Viagra 

Levitra vs. Viagra: which is stronger?

  • Levitra is another ED medication that belongs to the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors category.

    Both Levitra and Viagra treat erectile dysfunction by inhibiting PDE5, which boosts nitric oxide release. This stimulates cGMP production, relaxing smooth muscles and enhancing blood flow to the penis, resulting in a more robust and enduring erection.  

  • Levitra: stronger, faster 

    Of the two, Levitra has a stronger effect on the smooth muscles of the penis, making it more potent than Viagra.  Levitra also has a quicker onset of action and takes effect more quickly than Viagra. 

  • There are some benefits to generic Viagra. Viagra has a longer half-life and stays active for up to six hours, compared to vardenafil's four-hour half-life (half-life means that half of the drug is still in your system at that time). Also, while both medications are generally low in side effects, Viagra tends to cause milder side effects, such as headaches and facial flushing. Levitra is more likely to cause more severe side effects like back pain, muscle aches, and vision alterations.

    Both Levitra and Viagra are available in different dosage strengths. Vardenafil comes in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets, while sildenafil comes in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets.

    Never adjust your dose without talking to one of our doctors. Overconsumption of either medication can result in severe side effects such as vision changes, hearing impairment, and sudden blood pressure drops.  

What are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction?

It’s normal not to reach or keep an erection sometimes. All men go through periods of stress, relationship issues, or physical, mental or emotional fatigue. However, if it happens consistently, your doctor may diagnose you with ED. Symptoms of ED include difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection, decreased sexual desire, and emotional distress related to sexual performance.

It’s common to feel frustrated and disappointed by sexual performance issues, but erectile dysfunction is more common than most people think. According to one major study, more than half of men between age 40 and 70 experience erectile dysfunction symptoms.

Satisfying sexual intimacy is an important part of your well-being. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for erectile dysfunction(ED).

Based on your health history and symptoms, our online doctors will help you decide if Viagra is the best treatment for you. Any recommended prescriptions are conveniently sent to a pharmacy of your choice.

Why not take the next step? Book an online appointment with us today, and let's start your journey towards satisfying sexual intimacy. 

Simple lifestyle tips help erectile dysfunction

  • At our virtual clinic, we know managing erectile dysfunction starts with a healthy lifestyle.  

    By fueling your body with flavonoid-rich foods, like colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, you're supporting optimal blood flow and overall well-being. Be sure to limit fatty meals, they can harm your cardiovascular health and delay the effects of treatments like Viagra.

    Maintaining a healthy weight not only helps with ED but also reduces other health risks. Regular exercise serves multiple purposes; it boosts blood flow, reduces stress, and aids in maintaining a healthy life.

    If you're a smoker, it's time to quit. There's a proven link between smoking and ED. Also, aim to steer clear of excessive alcohol and illicit drugs, their elimination can enhance your sexual function.

    Proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise minimize side effects from Viagra and other ED treatments we might prescribe. All these measures contribute towards a sexually healthier you, and we're here to guide you every step of the way. 

  • Natural Viagra: can healthy foods help sexual performance?

    While some may label certain foods as "natural Viagra", it's crucial to remember that diet alone can't mimic prescription Viagra's direct effects. However, we encourage a diet rich in plant-based foods as they offer nutrients that boost circulation, improve heart health, and can potentially support sexual health. Some foods include:

    Beets, naturally rich in nitrates, promote blood vessel relaxation and enhance blood circulation. Watermelon, a natural source of citrulline, aids in blood vessels' relaxation. Chlorophyll-rich greens such as spinach and lettuce provide similar benefits. Nuts and seeds like almonds and walnuts, rich in L-arginine, contribute to heart health.

    It’s important to note that these foods aren't substitutes for professional medical advice or treatment, especially for erectile dysfunction. 

Viagra prescription FAQs

  • How long does Viagra stay in your system?

    As a general guideline, it can take nearly a day for Viagra to exit your system due to its half-life. The half-life of a medication refers to the time taken for the initial dosage to halve in your body. Viagra has a half-life of approximately four hours, reflecting its usual effective duration. A medication generally needs four to five half-lives to clear from the body entirely, so Viagra is typically eliminated after around 16 to 20 hours.

    Various factors, such as age, other medications, and existing health conditions can impact the duration of Viagra in your system. For example, for older individuals (those age 65 and older), Viagra might remain in their system longer, so a lower dose is initially recommended. 

  • How much Viagra (sildenafil) is too much?

    While Viagra is generally safe, it’s important to remember that its safety profile depends on following our doctor’s recommendations.

    Sildenafil is typically prescribed for erectile dysfunction at a dose of 50 mg, once a day, up to the maximum dose of 100 mg. It is crucial not to exceed this dosage limit or combine pills to surpass 100 mg. Doing so may lead to a dangerous decrease in blood pressure or other serious side effects. 

  • Can you buy Viagra over the counter?

    Both Viagra and generic sildenafil are prescription medications and are not available for over-the-counter purchase at any pharmacy. However, you can get a prescription for these medications online from one of our doctors without visiting an in-person clinic. 

  • What is the difference between Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra?

    Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are all medications for erectile dysfunction. They belong to the same general drug class but differ in onset, duration, dosage, and side effects. Viagra acts quickly but lasts four to six hours, Cialis lasts up to 36 hours, and Levitra lasts four to six hours. Dosages vary as do potential side effects and interactions.

  • Why does Viagra (sildenafil) cause headaches?

    Viagra can cause headaches due to vasodilation, increased blood flow to the brain, individual sensitivity, dehydration, and alcohol consumption. Around 16% of users may experience headaches, typically mild to moderate, within a few hours of taking Viagra. Headaches usually go away on their own, but consult one of our trusted doctors if they become severe or persistent. 

  • Can you cut 100 mg of Viagra in half?

    Viagra tablets can be split in half, crushed, or swallowed whole. You also have the option to take Viagra with or without food. However, its effectiveness might be delayed when consumed with high-fat meals like fried foods. In such instances, Viagra may take up to an additional hour to begin working. 

  • How to use sildenafil for women?

    Sildenafil is not authorized for use in women, and research findings have been inconsistent. While there isn't a "female Viagra," a few medications are approved to address sexual dysfunction in specific women. Before considering Viagra or any alternative medication, talk to one of our board-certified doctors.

  • How to tell if a man is using Viagra?

    There is no sure way to tell if a man is using Viagra or ED medication just by observation. If you’re wondering, just ask! Viagra is a medication that acts internally on the body and any positive effects or side effects will vary from person to person.

  • What can I expect when my husband takes Viagra?

    When your husband uses Viagra, you can expect improved erectile function with onset in 30-60 minutes lasting four to six hours. It doesn't boost sexual desire, but it does help men achieve and maintain an erection. Your husband might also experience side effects like headaches and facial flushing.

  • What happens when you take Viagra for the first time?

    When you first take Viagra, you may experience specific side effects such as flushing of the skin, dizziness, or headaches. These effects are typical as your body's blood vessels adapt to Viagra. Usually, it takes a few hours for these side effects to subside. 

  • Does sildenafil expire?

    Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra and generics, does expire. Check the expiration date on the packaging and avoid using it afterward. Expired medication can lose effectiveness, pose safety risks, and grow harmful bacteria. Safely dispose of expired sildenafil through authorized take-back programs, not by flushing it. 

  • Can Viagra cause a heart attack?

    Using Viagra does not appear to elevate the likelihood of a heart attack. Nonetheless, for individuals with high blood pressure, especially those on blood pressure-lowering medications, using Viagra could pose risks. Talk to one of our board-certified physicians before starting any ED medication.

Viagra online appointment pricing details

How it works

To get a new or refill on your Viagra prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

Paying with insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

Copay

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

  • We accept these insurance plans and many more:

    • Humana
    • Aetna
    • Cigna

Paying without insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

$129

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Book an appointment

If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.