Erectile Dysfunction

FDA-Approved Generic ED Meds

FDA has given its approval to four medicines for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence issues in men. The medicines are Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, and Stendra. One needs to have a prescription letter from their healthcare provider, only then these ED medicines can be bought.

Since these medicines are FDA-approved, they are considered the safest and most effective solution for managing ED problems. But these are all branded versions of generic medicines.

About branded ED medicines

There are currently four ED medicines that have got FDA approval. They are Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, and Stendra. All these contain different active ingredients. Viagra is the first one among all to get the FDA’s approval. It is a very well-known and popular remedy preferred by men.

These are just the branded versions of some generic medicines. They are available only on prescription, and cannot be bought over the counter. Since they are branded, they are very expensive and cannot be afforded by most.

However, their generic versions are as effective and they are available at much cheaper cost. Generic ED medicines can be bought by everyone. 

Generic ED medicines

Sildenafil (Viagra)

Sildenafil is sold under the brand name Viagra. Sildenafil is an unbranded form of Viagra and there is no difference between the working of both these medicines. Sildenafil medicines come in various doses.

The dose will be prescribed by the healthcare provider based on several factors like age, health conditions, general health, severity of impotence issues, etc. The effects of these medicines may vary from person to person depending on how well their body responds to the medicine.

Tadalafil (Cialis)

Branded Cialis medicines are the first generic version of Tadalafil medicines. Cialis is the branded version of Tadalafil. Tadalafil is known for its prolonged effectiveness and action. Higher doses of this medicine can continue to produce its action for 36 hours or even more.  

There are many different generics of Tadalafil as well. One such is Tadalista 10mg. This medicine boosts the blood flow to the penile and triggers stronger erections.

Vardenafil (Levitra)

Also called generic Levitra, vardenafil medicines are phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors that help restore the erection function until its effects are active in the bloodstream. Levitra is the first generic version of Vardenafil. 

Vardenafil generics are available in three different doses – 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg. The healthcare provider will suggest an appropriate dose of these medicines as per the severity of impotence problems.    

The medicine must be consumed approximately 30 to 60 minutes before an anticipated sexual activity. The effects of this medicine run actively in the body for around 4 to 6 hours after intake.

Avanafil (Stendra)

Stendra is the branded version of Avanafil medicines. They come in three doses, which are 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg. Avanafil is a potent component that relaxes the muscles and the blood vessels of the penile. The medicine increases blood circulation and improves erection function. 

How do ED meds work?

ED medicines are pure vasodilators, that target the penile muscles and blood vessels and overcome their constrictions and narrowing. Narrowed blood vessels prevent blood flow to the penile, which affects the erection function.  

Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil, and Avanafil all are active components, which are categorized under phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. They trigger vasodilation in the penile and boost blood flow, thereby restoring the erection function.

Apart from treating erectile dysfunction, Sildenafil and Tadalafil drugs are also prescribed for treating some other problems like pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Are unbranded versions of ED meds effective enough?

Yes, most of them are effective as they contain the same active component. They deliver the same action as the first generic versions, that is, the branded ones. The effects of these medicines depend on various factor, which differs in every individual.

These medicines primarily cause vasodilation in the penile and increase the blood flow to the penile. All ED meds produce the required result only during sexual arousal. In the absence of arousal, the medicine will not promote erections as it does trigger spontaneous erections.

Do ED meds produce side effects?

Yes, they do contribute to some common side effects such as Headache, rash, dizziness, indigestion, runny nose or stuffy nose, flushing, nausea, and, blurred vision. These are all mild symptoms that disappear soon.

Uncommon side effects include rapid heartbeat, nasal congestion, blood pressure fluctuations, dry mouth, muscle aches, and ringing in the ears or tinnitus. These are rare, but if any of these appear, see your doctor right away.

Leave a Reply