Sildenafil citrate can help senior men with erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow, but dosage and safety depend on age, health, and other medications. Learn how it works, risks, and what works best alongside it.
Read MoreSildenafil Citrate: What It Is, How It Works, and What Alternatives Exist
When you hear sildenafil citrate, the active ingredient in Viagra and other erectile dysfunction medications. Also known as Viagra, it's one of the most studied and widely used treatments for erectile dysfunction. It works by relaxing blood vessels in the penis, letting more blood flow in when you're sexually stimulated. It doesn’t cause an erection on its own—you still need arousal. This simple mechanism makes it effective for many men, but not everyone responds the same way.
People often compare sildenafil citrate to other ED treatments like tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis and Forzest, which lasts longer—up to 36 hours—or vardenafil, found in Levitra, which works faster for some. Each has different onset times, durations, and side effect profiles. Sildenafil usually kicks in within 30 to 60 minutes and lasts about 4 to 5 hours. It’s also the most affordable option in generic form, which is why so many people start with it.
But sildenafil isn’t for everyone. If you take nitrates for chest pain, have severe heart or liver issues, or have had a recent stroke, it can be dangerous. Some men report headaches, flushing, or upset stomach. Others find it doesn’t work well with high-fat meals or alcohol. That’s why alternatives matter. Some switch to tadalafil for longer-lasting results. Others try injections like alprostadil or vacuum pumps when pills don’t cut it. Even lifestyle changes—like losing weight, quitting smoking, or managing stress—can improve results without more medication.
The posts below cover real comparisons you can use. You’ll find side-by-side breakdowns of sildenafil with tadalafil, vardenafil, and other ED treatments. You’ll see what works best for different lifestyles, budgets, and health conditions. There’s also advice on how to talk to your doctor about switching meds, spotting counterfeit pills online, and managing side effects without giving up on intimacy. Whether you’re new to ED treatment or looking for something better than what you’re using now, these guides give you the facts without the fluff.