Fildena vs Viagra: Which Sildenafil Pill Is Right for You?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that affects millions of men worldwide. It can impact confidence, relationships, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, medical advancements have made ED more manageable with the help of effective treatments. One of the most widely used solutions for ED is Sildenafil, a medication that helps men regain their sexual performance. Among Sildenafil-based treatments, Viagra and Fildena are the two popular options available in the market today. But in this Fildena vs Viagra comparison, which is a better option for you?

Is there a difference in effectiveness, safety, or value? In this guide, we will look into Fildena and Viagra, helping you choose the right ED medication for your needs.

Understanding Sildenafil Citrate

Sildenafil Citrate is a prescription medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction in men by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. It belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by relaxing the blood vessels and improving circulation in specific areas of the body.

First approved by the U.S. FDA in 1998, Sildenafil became widely recognized under the brand name Viagra.

While sildenafil citrate is widely recognized for its role in managing ED, its clinical use extends far beyond sexual health-

According to Dr. Goldstein, Clinical Professor of Surgery at the University of California, San Diego and Director of San Diego Sexual Medicine, sildenafil citrate can reduce the intensity and progression of erectile dysfunction over time. Beyond sexual function, sildenafil citrate is also a recognized treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). It is a type of high blood pressure that affects the lungs. It improves the ability to exercise and delays disease progression.

What Is Viagra?

Viagra is a medication developed by Pfizer and used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. Its active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused [1].

What Is Fildena?

Fildena is a generic version of Viagra containing sildenafil citrate as the active compound. It was developed after Viagra’s patent expired, allowing pharmaceutical companies to produce more affordable alternatives.

Apart from Fildena, several other generic Sildenafil options are available, offering multiple dosage strengths. Some of them are Cenforce, Malegra, and Aurogra. Beginners can start with a lower dose, such as Cenforce 100 mg, to see how their body responds.

Fildena Vs Viagra- Key Similarities

The key similarities between Viagra and Fildena ED medication are listed below.

Same Active Ingredient

Both Fildena and Viagra contain sildenafil citrate as the active compound. It is a PDE5 inhibitor that improves blood flow to the penis, helping achieve and maintain an erection.

Same Mechanism of Action

Fildena and Viagra works by enhancing blood flow to the penis. This helps men to achieve and maintain an erection. Its action begins when a man experiences sexual arousal, triggering the release of nitric oxide (NO) in the blood vessels of the penis. Nitric oxide activates the enzyme guanylate cyclase, which increases the levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). This cGMP is crucial for relaxing the smooth muscles in the corpus cavernosum (the erectile tissue), allowing the blood vessels to expand (vasodilation) and blood to flow in more freely [2].

Onset of Action

Both Fildena and Viagra tablets take around 30 to 60 minutes to start working after intake.

Duration Of Action

The effects of Viagra and Fildena ED medication last for about 4 to 6 hours.

Same Administration Guidelines

Both are oral tablets that should be taken with water, preferably on an empty stomach, for faster absorption.

Prescription Requirement

Both Viagra and Fildena tablets are prescription medications and are not available over the counter.

Insurance Cover

Most health insurance plans do not cover Viagra for erectile dysfunction. Further, the cost of Fildena is not covered by insurance.

Shelf Life

The typical shelf life of both Viagra and Fildena is around 2 years, but it is important to check the expiration date on the packaging before use for safety and effectiveness.

Differences Between Fildena And Viagra

Along with the similarities, there are a few factors that differentiate the two of them. Some of the differences to take into consideration when choosing between Viagra and Fildena are listed below.

Brand And Generic

Viagra is the brand drug, and Fildena is a generic version that was made available in the market after Viagra’s patent expired.

FDA Approval

Viagra is the only Sildenafil-based medication that has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). At the same time, generic versions of Sildenafil, such as Fildena, have not been officially recommended by the FDA.

Market availability

Viagra was marketed in 1998. Fildena entered the market in 2013 as a more affordable generic alternative [3, 4].

Manufacturers Of Fildena And Viagra

Viagra is manufactured by Pfizer, a globally recognized pharmaceutical company [2].

Fildena is produced by Fortune Healthcare, a renowned Indian pharmaceutical company [5].

Cost Comparision

Viagra is significantly more expensive due to branding, marketing, and research costs. A pack of 30 tablets of Viagra 100 mg can cost around $2,809, which breaks down to approximately $93 per pill. In contrast, 10 tablets of Fildena 100 mg are priced at just $44.95, making the cost per pill roughly $4.

Appearance

Viagra is well-known for its blue, diamond-shaped tablet with Pfizer’s logo [6]. Fildena tablets vary in color and shape depending on the strength and type, with purple, red, and pink variants.

Dosage Availability

Viagra is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg doses. Whereas, Fildena offers more dosage options, including 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 120 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg, catering to different severity levels of ED.

Fildena purple pill also comes in various dosage forms, such as chewable tablets and soft gel capsules, for user convenience.

Viagra And Fildena 100 Side Effects

Both Fildena and Viagra may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Being aware of potential reactions and taking necessary precautions can help ensure safe usage.

The common side effects of Fildena and Viagra are listed below-

• Headache
• Flushing (redness of the face and neck)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nasal congestion
• Indigestion or upset stomach
• Blurred vision

The rare but serious side effects include-

• Drop in blood pressure
• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Prolonged or painful erection (priapism) lasting more than 4 hours
• Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears

Precautionary Measures

• Consult a doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or liver or kidney disorder before taking either of these ED medications.
• Avoid combining with nitrates, as it can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
• Limit alcohol consumption, as it may worsen side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure.
• Do not take more than one dose per day, as overdosing increases the risk of complications.
• Be cautious if taking other medications, especially those for heart conditions or prostate disorders.

Viagra vs Fildena- Drug Interaction

Both Viagra and Fildena can interact with various medications, potentially leading to adverse effects. Some of the common drug interactions of these ED medications are listed below.

Nitrate-Based Medications

Combining Sildenafil with nitrates such as Nitroglycerin, Isosorbide Mononitrate, and Isosorbide Dinitrate can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Alpha-Blockers

Used to treat high blood pressure and prostate conditions, alpha blockers such as Doxazosin, Tamsulosin, and Terazosin can lead to severe hypotension (low blood pressure) when taken with sildenafil.

Other ED Medications

Taking multiple ED drugs together, such as tadalafil or vardenafil, can increase the risk of severe side effects like dizziness, priapism (prolonged erection), and blood pressure fluctuations.

Antifungal and Antibiotic Medications

Some antifungals and antibiotics can slow down sildenafil metabolism, increasing its concentration in the blood and leading to a higher risk of side effects.

HIV Protease Inhibitors

Ritonavir and Saquinavir can increase sildenafil levels in the bloodstream, making side effects more pronounced.

Blood Pressure and Heart Medications

Sildenafil can interact with antihypertensive drugs, potentially causing excessive drops in blood pressure.

Grapefruit

Consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice can increase sildenafil levels, intensifying side effects.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between Viagra and Fildena depends on individual preferences, budget, and medical considerations. Both contain Sildenafil and work similarly in treating erectile dysfunction.

Choose Viagra if-

• You prefer an FDA-approved medication with a well-established safety profile.
• You want a clinically tested option that has undergone extensive research.
• Cost is not a major concern.

Choose Fildena if-

• You are looking for a cost-effective alternative to Viagra with the same active ingredient.
• You want more dosage options and formulations, as Fildena is available in higher strengths such as 200 mg, including chewable and soft gel forms.

Fildena Vs Viagra- Our Final Thoughts

Both Fildena and Viagra contain Sildenafil Citrate and are effective in treating erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis. While Viagra is the original, FDA-approved brand, Fildena is a more affordable generic alternative. It offers the same active ingredient in multiple strengths and formulations.

Viagra has been extensively researched and is widely recognized for its proven safety and effectiveness. On the other hand, Fildena provides a cost-effective solution for individuals looking for more flexibility in dosage and affordability without compromising on effectiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference, budget, and medical advice.

To help you choose better, the table below summarizes the similarities and differences between the two.