Sildenafil for ED: How It Works, What It Costs, and What to Expect

Quick answer: Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra — a well-established, FDA-approved medication that improves blood flow to support an erection in response to sexual stimulation. FaroRx offers sildenafil starting at $69/month after an online visit with a licensed U.S. provider.

Erectile dysfunction is common — and extremely treatable. Sildenafil has one of the longest track records of any ED medication, with decades of clinical use behind it. Here’s what to know before starting.

How sildenafil works

Sildenafil belongs to a class of medications called PDE5 inhibitors. It works by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow to the penis in response to sexual stimulation — it doesn’t cause an erection on its own, and requires arousal to take effect. Sildenafil is taken as needed, typically 30–60 minutes before sexual activity, with effects generally lasting around 4 hours.

Sildenafil vs. brand-name Viagra

Sildenafil is the generic active ingredient in Viagra, and generic sildenafil is itself FDA-approved — unlike some of the other compounded products in the FaroRx lineup. This means sildenafil offers the same clinically studied mechanism as brand-name Viagra, typically at a significantly lower cost.

How to get it through FaroRx

1. Take the health quiz — covers your health history and relevant symptoms.
2. Meet your provider online — a licensed U.S. provider reviews your intake and confirms sildenafil is appropriate and safe given your health history (particularly any heart medications, since interactions matter here).
3. Get it shipped monthly — free, discreet delivery, with ongoing care team support.

Pricing: $69/month, with quarterly ($189) and six-month ($329) options.

What to expect

Sildenafil is taken as needed rather than daily. Most patients notice it takes effect within 30–60 minutes, works best on an empty stomach or after a light meal (a heavy, high-fat meal can delay absorption), and requires sexual stimulation to work. Common side effects include headache, flushing, and mild nasal congestion, which are generally temporary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does sildenafil take to work? Typically 30–60 minutes, though this can vary based on whether you’ve eaten and individual metabolism.

How long do the effects of sildenafil last? Generally around 4 hours, though individual response varies.

Is sildenafil the same as Viagra? Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra. Generic sildenafil uses the same FDA-approved active ingredient as the brand-name product, typically at a lower price.

Do I need to be sexually stimulated for sildenafil to work? Yes — sildenafil improves blood flow to support an erection in response to arousal, but it does not cause an erection on its own.

Is sildenafil safe to take with other medications? It can interact with certain medications, particularly nitrates used for heart conditions. This is exactly what your provider reviews during your online visit before prescribing.

Is it right for you?

If you’re experiencing difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection and want a well-established, clinically proven option, sildenafil is worth discussing with a provider.

See if you qualify for sildenafil →

Prescribed only when clinically appropriate following an online medical visit with a licensed provider. Individual results vary.