What exactly is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It belongs to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors).
As an active ingredient, sildenafil was originally developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, which marketed it under the brand name Viagra . Today, it is the most commonly prescribed drug for erectile dysfunction worldwide. However, many men are unfamiliar with its effects and the conditions under which it can be used safely.
Important facts about sildenafil:
- It is the active chemical compound that produces the effect of Viagra
- It is also used in other brand-name and generic erectile dysfunction medications
- In the Netherlands, sildenafil is only available with a doctor's prescription
- It is sometimes prescribed (off-label) for pulmonary hypertension
How does Sildenafil work in the body?
To understand how sildenafil works, it's important to first understand the natural process of an erection . When a man becomes sexually aroused, the nerve cells in the penis produce nitric oxide (NO). This substance triggers a biochemical reaction that produces cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate), which leads to relaxation of the smooth muscle cells in the penis and increased blood flow.
Sildenafil interferes with this natural mechanism by specifically blocking a single enzyme. This targeted action temporarily strengthens the erection mechanism without affecting libido itself. This distinguishes sildenafil from many other medications that directly affect hormone balance.
How sildenafil works in steps:
- It blocks the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which normally breaks down cGMP
- This keeps cGMP active in the penile tissue for longer
- The blood vessels in the penis can relax better
- This ensures improved blood flow and a firmer erection
- However, without sexual arousal this process does not occur
Important to know about the operation:
- The effect usually begins 30-60 minutes after ingestion
- The effect lasts on average 4-6 hours
- It is not a libido enhancer and will have no effect without sexual stimulation
What are the disadvantages and side effects of Sildenafil?
While sildenafil is effective for many men, it comes with some potential drawbacks and side effects that you should be aware of before considering its use.
Most sildenafil side effects are mild to moderate and temporary. They usually don't last longer than the drug itself. However, approximately 15% of users experience some form of side effect, which may be a reason to seek alternatives.
Common side effects include:
- Headache (occurs in approximately 16% of users)
- Blushing and hot flashes
- Stuffy or runny nose
Also regularly reported:
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Gastrointestinal complaints, such as indigestion
- Temporary changes in vision (bluish tint, light sensitivity)
- Muscle pain
Sildenafil can rarely cause more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Stop use and consult a doctor immediately if:
- Sudden hearing or vision problems
- Prolonged erection (priapism) lasting more than 4 hours
- Allergic reactions
- Chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sexual activity
Not everyone can safely use sildenafil. The drug is contraindicated for men with:
- Certain cardiovascular diseases
- Recent heart attack or stroke (within 6 months)
- Serious liver or kidney problems
- Use of nitrates (such as certain heart rhythm medications)
- Severely low blood pressure
It is therefore crucial to use sildenafil only under the supervision of a doctor, who can assess your medical history and prescribe the appropriate dosage.
Is Sildenafil available over the counter?
An important question many men ask is whether sildenafil is available without a prescription. The answer is clear:
In the Netherlands, sildenafil is only available with a doctor's prescription.
This means that you should always consult a doctor before using this medication. The doctor will assess whether sildenafil is suitable for your specific situation, taking into account your medical history and any medications you are taking. This step is essential for your safety.
Consulting a doctor is necessary to:
- To determine whether sildenafil is suitable for your situation
- To rule out possible interactions with other medications
- To determine the correct dosage
Unfortunately, many men, out of embarrassment or convenience, try to obtain sildenafil without a prescription, often through online sources. This carries serious risks:
Warning for online purchases without a prescription:
- Such sales are illegal in the Netherlands
- Websites offering sildenafil without a prescription are unreliable
- There is no guarantee about the authenticity or quality of the product
When purchasing without a prescription you run major risks such as:
- Counterfeit products with unknown composition
- Contaminated or contaminated resources
- Incorrect dosage that poses health risks
- No medical assistance in case of problems
Your health is too important to take such risks. For erectile dysfunction, it's always advisable to consult your doctor first.
What is the difference between Sildenafil and Viagra?
A frequently asked question is what exactly is the difference between sildenafil and Viagra. This question often stems from confusion about generic medications versus brand-name products.
Sildenafil is the active ingredient (the chemical compound) that produces the effect, while Viagra is the brand name of the original product developed by Pfizer. It's comparable to paracetamol (the active ingredient) and Panadol (a brand name).
After Pfizer's patent expired, other manufacturers were allowed to produce and sell sildenafil, leading to generic versions of the drug. These generic versions contain the same active ingredient and must meet the same quality standards as the brand-name product.
The table below shows the main differences and similarities:
| Feature | Sildenafil (substance) | Viagra (brand name) |
|---|---|---|
| Active substance | Yes | Yes |
| Manufacturer | Multiple generic brands | Pfizer |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Legal in the Netherlands | Prescription only | Prescription only |
| Familiarity | Lower | High |
| Dosage | Variable (25, 50, 100 mg) | Variable (25, 50, 100 mg) |
| Effectiveness | Similar to Viagra | Similar to generic sildenafil |
In short:
- Viagra is a brand name of Pfizer with sildenafil as the active ingredient
- Generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient and works in the same way
- Generic versions are usually cheaper than the brand name product
- The quality and effectiveness of both must be equivalent if they comply with the same regulations
- Both are only available on prescription in the Netherlands
What is a natural alternative to Sildenafil?
For men who prefer not to use prescription medication or who are looking for herbal support, Male Support from Vaud is an interesting alternative.
Unlike sildenafil, which directly affects the physiology of erections, Male Support focuses on supporting the body's natural processes. It's a dietary supplement that helps maintain overall sexual health and vitality.
What makes Male Support different?
Male Support is a carefully formulated nutritional supplement that offers several benefits:
- Completely plant-based – no drugs or chemical ingredients
- Available without a prescription
- Supports sexual health naturally
- No known side effects like with medications
Male Support's natural formula consists of a synergistic combination of ingredients, each with its own supporting properties:
L-Arginine This amino acid is a precursor to nitric oxide, the same molecule important for natural erectile function. L-Arginine supports:
- Healthy blood circulation
- The body's natural nitric oxide production
- The natural erection mechanism
Maca Root This traditional Peruvian plant has been used for centuries for:
- Support for male vitality
- Promoting energy and endurance
- Supporting a healthy libido
Siberian ginseng An adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress:
- Supports energy levels
- Helps maintain vitality
- Contributes to general well-being
Zinc An essential mineral that:
- Contributes to normal testosterone levels in the blood
- Plays a role in normal fertility
- Helps protect cells against oxidative stress
Unlike sildenafil, Male Support doesn't work as a quick fix, but provides support with regular use as a dietary supplement. It can be seen as a maintenance strategy for sexual health without the side effects often associated with prescription medications.
Male Support from Vaud offers:
- Natural support for male vitality
- Swiss quality and careful production
- Discreet home delivery
- No doctor's prescription required
- A safe alternative for men who do not want to use medication
