What is the difference between Viagra and Viagra Connect?

You have heard of Viagra, but have you heard about Viagra Connect? You may have even seen Viagra Connect at your local pharmacy. So, what is the difference between Viagra and Viagra Connect? From the active ingredient point of view, nothing. They both contain sildenafil 50mg. The difference between Viagra and Viagra Connect has to do with their legal classification. Viagra is a prescription-only medicine, or POM, while Viagra Connect is a pharmacy medicine, P.

In this blog, we will explain the difference between these two legal classifications and their significance when you are trying to purchase that little blue pill. However, before we get all legal, we will go over the basics of erectile dysfunction and the drug Viagra.

You can use the navigational table below to skip to the topics that interest you.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man struggles to get or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfying sexual activity (Muneer et al., 2014).

Since an erection requires increased blood flow to occur, any chronic disease that impacts the health of blood vessels can cause erection dysfunction. These include long-term conditions like heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure (Orimoloye et al., 2019).

Another significant contributor to erectile dysfunction is diabetes (Maiorino et al., 2014). The constant high levels of high blood sugar can damage blood vessels (a condition called endothelial dysfunction), leading to erectile dysfunction (Guay et al., 2007).

What is Viagra?

Viagra is the famous blue pill that became a blockbuster drug overnight by solving the riddle of erectile dysfunction. It contains the active pharmaceutical ingredient sildenafil. Viagra is available in three strengths:

It is recommended to start with Viagra 50mg and then adjust the dose to Viagra 25mg or Viagra 100mg depending on the side effects and whether an erection is possible with the Viagra 50mg tablet.

Viagra or sildenafil belongs to the class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, or PDE5 inhibitors, which also include the following:

These medications work by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, which then increases blood flow, causing an erection to occur when you are sexually aroused.

How does Viagra work?

Viagra works by increasing blood flow to the penis, making it easier for an erection to occur. It belongs to the family of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors, which work by raising levels of cGMP, a chemical in the body associated with dilated blood vessels (Corbin et al.,2004). When cGMP increases, the blood vessels widen, a process called vasodilation; more blood floods the penis, increasing pressure and creating an erection.

Viagra or sildenafil increases the cGMP levels by blocking the enzyme that degrades it, phosphodiesterase type 5, or PDE5. Because Viagra blocks the PDE5 enzyme, it is called a PDE5 inhibitor. However, the erection still needs the initial sexual arousal to work, as it only enhances the natural process (Andersson et al., 2018).

Viagra vs. Viagra Connect: What’s the Difference?

Both Viagra and Viagra Connect contain the same active pharmaceutical ingredient, sildenafil. They both contain sildenafil 50mg, which is the usual recommended starting dose for men starting Viagra or sildenafil for erectile dysfunction (BNF, 2024).

So if they both work in the same way to produce an erection, by blocking the PDE5 enzyme to increase blood flow to the penis, what is the difference between Viagra and Viagra Connect?

Although they work similarly and have the same active ingredient, a few differences might make one a better fit for you than the other, here’s what you should know about each option.

Viagra and Viagra Connect: Key Differences

Viagra and Viagra Connect are similar in many ways, but there are a few differences to be aware of:

Legal classification

Viagra

Viagra is a prescription-only medicine or POM. This means it can only be supplied against a prescription from an authorised health professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist prescriber. When you order Viagra 50mg from medicalmojo.co.uk, a private prescription is generated by our team of prescribing pharmacists after you complete the health questionnaire.

Viagra Connect

Viagra Connect is classed as a Pharmacy medicine or P. This means it can be purchased over-the-counter from any pharmacy under the supervision of a pharmacist.

Availability:

Viagra

Viagra requires a prescription from a healthcare provider, which may be necessary if you need a dosage adjustment or have tried ED treatments before.

Viagra Connect

Viagra Connect is available over the counter in the UK, so you won’t need a prescription to purchase it. However, pharmacists will still ask some basic health questions to ensure it’s safe for you.

Dosage Options:

Viagra

Viagra comes in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg dosages, so your doctor may adjust your dose depending on your response to the treatment.

Viagra Connect

Viagra Connect only comes in a 50 mg dose, the typical starting dose for most men with ED.

Pack Sizes and Price:

Viagra

Viagra is available in packs of 4 or 8. Being a branded prescription item, they tend to be slightly more expensive than Viagra Connect.

Viagra Connect

Viagra Connect is available in packs of 4 or 8 tablets and is slightly less expensive than Viagra.

How soon do Viagra and Viagra Connect start to work?

Both Viagra and Viagra Connect work by increasing blood flow to the penis, which helps you get and maintain an erection when aroused. They’re both phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, meaning they help blood vessels in the penis relax, allowing more blood to enter. Both options start working in about 30 minutes (Eardley et al., 2002). after you take them, with effects lasting up to 4 hours, remember that these medications still require the initial sexual stimulation to start the whole erection process off.

Similarities Between Viagra and Viagra Connect

• Same Active Ingredient: Both contain sildenafil 50mg, which works in the same way in each medication.
• Effectiveness: Both take 30 to 60 minutes to start working and last about four hours (Eardley et al., 2002).
• Side Effects: Since they contain the same active ingredient, they share the same potential side effects, such as headaches, nasal congestion, or dizziness (Moreira et al., 2000).

Viagra and Viagra Connect vs Other ED Medications

There are other ED medications available, and each has its unique benefits:

Sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra and Viagra Connect):

• Takes 30 to 60 minutes to work
• Lasts around four hours
• Available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets

Tadalafil (Cialis):

• Takes around 30 minutes to work
• Lasts up to 36 hours (Evans et al., 2015)
• Available as an “as-needed” or daily-use option

Avanafil (Spedra, Stendra):

• Takes around 15 to 30 minutes to work (Burke et al., 2012).
• Lasts 4 to 5 hours
• Available in 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg tablets

Vardenafil (Levitra):

• Takes around 30 to 60 minutes to work (Porst et al., 2004).
• Lasts around four hours
• Available in 10 mg or 20 mg tablets

These alternatives work similarly by enhancing blood flow, but the onset time and duration can vary, making some options more flexible based on individual needs.

Key takeaways about Viagra and Viagra Connect

• Viagra Connect is available over the counter, while Viagra requires a prescription.
• Both contain the same active ingredient, sildenafil and work similarly.
• Viagra Connect is only available in a 50 mg dose, whereas Viagra offers additional dosing options.
• There are alternative medications that work similarly, like Tadalafil and Avanafil, which may suit your needs better.

Viagra and Viagra Connect Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to take the next step?

Talking about erectile dysfunction (ED) doesn’t need to be awkward—it’s often a sign of other health issues, like blood flow problems, or it could stem from psychological causes. Whatever the reason, the team at Medical Mojo is here to help. We’ll guide you through the suitable treatment options, offer advice if standard ED medications aren’t working, and even help you build a personalised plan. The first step is reaching out, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions.

Want to learn more about Viagra and other erectile dysfunction treatments?

If you want to learn more about Viagra, Viagra Connect and other PDE5 inhibitors and even about erectile dysfunction, here is a list of several informative blog articles, including the following:

Why does Viagra cause a headache?

Why does Viagra cause heartburn?

Can Viagra cause blood clots?

Can Viagra cause a stroke?

Does Viagra make you last longer?

Can I drink alcohol while taking sildenafil?

Can Viagra make you bigger?

How long does sildenafil last for?

What is Kamagra?

Can you take Viagra with blood thinners?

How often can you take Viagra? A guide for safe use and effectiveness

How long does sildenafil last for?

Why Choose Medicalmojo.co.uk for Sexual Health Support?

If you’re considering sildenafil or exploring other treatments for ED, it’s vital to choose an approach that suits you. Our healthcare questionnaires ensure that any treatment is safe for you, but we’re also here to provide extra guidance if needed.

Medicalmojo.co.uk offers confidential telehealth services for men dealing with sensitive issues like ED. Our expert team of pharmacists, doctors, and therapists provides personalised guidance to help you make well-informed choices about sildenafil and other treatment options.

Benefits of Choosing Medicalmojo.co.uk for erectile dysfunction treatments

• Private, judgment-free consultations from home
• Health recommendations based on your unique health profile
• Health screenings to confirm if Viagra or Viagra Connect  is suitable for you
• Ongoing support and follow-up during treatment
• Clear, realistic guidance on what sildenafil can offer
• Advice on lifestyle changes to enhance sexual health
• Commitment to evidence-based treatment and support
• Personalised compounded medicines tailored to your own health needs

With Medical Mojo, you’ll understand how Viagra and Viagra Connect can help with erectile dysfunction and what results you can expect. This empowers you to set achievable goals and make informed decisions about your health. For more information, please contact us.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.

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9. Hatzimouratidis K. Sildenafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: an overview of the clinical evidence. Clin Interv Aging. 2006;1(4):403-14.
10. Moreira SG Jr, Brannigan RE, Spitz A, Orejuela FJ, Lipshultz LI, Kim ED. Side-effect profile of sildenafil citrate (Viagra) in clinical practice. Urology. 2000 Sep 1;56(3):474-6.
11. Evans JD, Hill SR. A comparison of the available phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: a focus on avanafil. Patient Prefer Adherence. 2015 Aug 12;9:1159-64.
12. Burke RM, Evans JD. Avanafil for treatment of erectile dysfunction: review of its potential. Vasc Health Risk Manag. 2012;8:517-23. doi: 10.2147/VHRM.S26712. Epub 2012 Aug 29. PMID: 22973106; PMCID: PMC3433322.
13. Porst, H., 2004. Phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors: a critical comparative analysis. EAU Update Series, 2(2), pp.56-63.