Generic Viagra, Cialis & Levitra: Do They Work Like the Brand?

If you have ever had any sexual health issue, you must have come across the names of these medications—Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra. These medications have been the top ED pills recommended by doctors when it comes to treating signs of erectile Dysfunction. These brand drugs are also available in a generic version, creating all the confusion in the customers’ minds. 

Brand and generic drugs are formulated with the same active compound but differ in pricing. Generic medications such as sildenafil (generic Viagra), tadalafil (generic Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra), offer the same benefits at affordable prices.

This blog will examine the top erectile dysfunction treatments and the similarities and differences between brand-name and generic medication. We will also find the answer to the question, “Do generics work as well as brand-name ED meds?”

Difference Between Generic and Brand-Name ED Meds

When a new medication is released, the manufacturing company often patents and retails it under a brand name. When this patent expires, other manufacturing companies sell generic versions of the medication.

A generic drug is a medication formulated with the same active compound as the brand, thus showcasing similar effectiveness and administration. However, they may differ in the list of inactive compounds.

Bioavailability Of Generic ED Drugs vs. Brand-Name

The bioavailability of a medication is the rate at which the active compound enters the bloodstream and becomes effective. It also depends on the dosage strength of the medication. The bioavailability of both generic and brand drugs is the same.

Cost Comparison: Brand vs. Generic ED Meds

Brand ED medications are pricier than generic versions. Taking the cost of brand and generic Viagra as an example, let’s understand this price variation.

Brand Viagra is pricier than generic Viagra because its manufacturer, Pfizer, has invested a lot of money in developing the drug and doing clinical trials. They have also spent a significant amount on marketing. To recover the funds invested, Pfizer has applied for a patent restricting other companies from manufacturing similar medicines for a certain period. This allows Pfizer to dominate the market and retail the medication at a higher price.

In contrast, generic ED medications are much cheaper because they don’t require these steps to retail. Such manufacturers can replicate the formula without investing as much as brand manufacturers.

Insurance Coverage for Generic ED Drugs

Generic versions of ED medications are more likely to be covered by insurance plans, whereas the coverage of brand drugs may vary depending on the provider.

Are Generic Medicine Safe?

Generic medications are safe and effective as they contain the same active compound. However, it is essential to buy the medicines from a trusted pharmacy. These medications also undergo FDA approval to ensure their safety and efficacy. 

How To Tell If Your ED Medication Is Real or Fake?

One of the best ways to identify fake medication is by comparing the package. Look for print misspellings and inconsistencies, which could signify counterfeit medicines. Also, check for tampered or broken seals and packaging.

Compare the appearance of the pills, such as their color, shape, and markings. A fake pill may have uneven texture and color.

Brand Viagra vs Generic Viagra

Brand Viagra and generic Viagra have the same active compound, sildenafil citrate. Thus, they have similar onset of action, effectiveness, and safety profiles.

Both Sildenafil (generic Viagra) and brand Viagra have a similar mechanism of action and work by inhibiting PDE5 to increase cGMP levels. However, they may differ in their pricing, appearances, dosages, and manufacturers. Medical research on ED drug effectiveness suggests that Viagra is one of the most potent PDE5 inhibitors on the market today.

Differences In Appearances

When it comes to appearance, brand Viagra is a blue, diamond-shaped pill. However, generic versions like Cenforce come in different shapes and colors depending on their strength. For example, Cenforce 150 mg is a red, diamond-shaped pill, while Cenforce 200 mg is a black tablet.

Dosages

Viagra is available in dosage strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100mg. Sildenafil, a generic option, also comes in the same dosage strength. However, the generic version may be available in a higher dosage, such as 200mg. For example, Cenforce 200 mg is prescribed to people with severe ED symptoms.

Manufacturer

Pfizer manufactures Viagra, while numerous pharmaceutical companies produce its generic versions. For instance, Centurion Laboratories manufactures Cenforce, Aurochem Laboratories produces Aurogra, and Sunrise Remedies produces Malegra.

Variation In Prices

The cost of Viagra is pricier than the generic version. The price of Viagra as listed on the most reliable and credible website is about $86 per pill. On the Iyrincare website, generic Viagra is listed for $0.7 per pill.

Generic Cialis vs. Brand Cialis

Both generic Cialis and brand Cialis have Tadalafil as the active compound. The primary difference between Cialis and Tadalafil (generic Cialis) is its branding. Cialis is the brand version of Tadalafil, developed and trademarked by Eli Lilly and Company. Both Cialis and tadalafil require a prescription and are not available as over-the-counter medications.

Cost Difference

The price of Cialis, as listed on trusted websites, is about $10.9 per pill. The generic versions, such as Vidalista and Tadalista, are priced at $0.83 per pill at pharmacies such as Iyrinhealth Care.

Appearance Differences

The brand Cialis is a yellow, film-coated, almond-shaped tablet. Generic Cialis (Tadalafil) tablets may vary in color, shape, and packaging, depending on the manufacturer.

Apart from pricing and appearances, they differ in their inactive ingredient list and manufacturing companies.

Generic Levitra vs. Brand Levitra

Levitra and generic Levitra contain vardenafil, an active ingredient that enhances blood flow to the lower abdomen, resulting in a firm erection. It is considered an effective alternative to Viagra and Cialis. Since they have the same active compound, they show similar effectiveness, onset of action, and safety profile.

Cost Difference

According to most reputable websites, Levitra costs about $53 per pill. Generic Levitra (Vardenafil), such as Vilitra and Vitara, costs $0.87 per pill at IyrinHealth Care.

Appearance Differences  

The brand Levitra, which Bayer Pharmaceuticals manufacture, is a round and orange tablet. On the other hand, a generic version such as Vilitra, which Centurion Laboratories manufacture, is a round yellow tablet.

Viagra vs. Cialis vs. Levitra Comparison Chart

Three of the most commonly prescribed erectile dysfunction medications are listed in the table below.

How Do ED Medications Work?

ED medications work by affecting the flow of blood to the abdomen. They belong to the class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.

PDE-5 inhibitors mechanism of action includes preventing the breakdown of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).

cGMP is a molecule that helps relax the blood vessels and enhance blood flow to the penis. Men with ED experience a breakdown of the cGMP due to the action of

the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzyme.

ED medications inhibit the action of this enzyme, thus maintaining the levels of cGMP, therefore promoting better erection.

How To Take Viagra, Cialis, And Levitra?

• These ED medications should be swallowed with water.
• Avoid a high-fat meal with Viagra and levitra.
• Do not take more than one dose a day.
• Avoid the use of grapefruit with these ED medications.

How do you get a prescription for ED meds online?

It is essential to consult a doctor (urologist) to obtain an ED prescription. Before prescribing an ED medication, your doctor will ask you details about your condition and medical history. In some cases, they also recommend a few tests. Based on their analysis, your doctor will prescribe the right ED treatment for you.

ED Medication Side Effects

The common side effects of Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are listed in the table below.

Are There Long-Term Effects of ED Medication?

In rare cases, the long-term use of Viagra and Levitra can cause priapism, a condition that causes prolonged erection. If left untreated, it can cause permanent erectile dysfunction. In some cases, the long-term use of Viagra can also lead to a serious eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, which can lead to permanent vision loss. However, the long-term use of Cialis is considered safe according to a 2004 study by F. Montorsi et al.

PDE-5 Inhibitors: Risks And Warnings

• The use of ED medications should be done with caution by patients with kidney, liver, and heart disorders.
• Always take Viagra and alcohol interaction into consideration, as it can result in nausea, dizziness, and flushing.
• Take any medication with Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra after consulting a doctor, as it can result in a drug interaction.

Brand Vs. Generic ED Pill—Which One Should You Choose?

If you are still wondering which among the brand and generic medication is the right option for you, here is a breakdown for you:

Choose Generic ED medications if-

• You are seeking cost-effective options without compromising on the quality of the medication.
• You don’t mind that the inactive compounds may differ in the formulation.

Choose Brand ED medications if-

• You prefer a well-established brand.
• Your insurance plan covers the cost of the medication.
• You are sensitive to the inactive compounds in the formulation of the generic medication.

Where to Buy Safe Generic ED Meds?

One of the best online pharmacies for ED meds is Iyrinhealth Care. They offer authentic, FDA-approved generic ED medications at affordable prices, with discreet packaging for a safe and reliable shopping experience.

Some of the key benefits offered by IyrinHealth Care are

• All their medications are sourced from reputable manufacturers.
• Offers 24×7 customer support.
• They offer a refilling reminder to ensure you never run out of your medications.

Final Verdict: Are Generics As Good as Brand Names?

Generic medications are similar to brand drugs in their effectiveness and safety but at a significantly more affordable price. The key differences between them lie in the cost, appearances, manufacturer, and inactive compound.

People on a budget looking for an affordable ED treatment option should choose generic ED pills such as Cenforce, Tadalista, or Vilitra. However, if you prefer a trusted brand option, such as Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra, is recommended.