Can You Buy Viagra Over the Counter? Your Options Explained

The little blue pill might be one of the best known medications in the world. What you might not know is that standard Viagra is only available by prescription here in the UK. Read on to understand why and what over the counter options are available.

Article Summary:

• Viagra (sildenafil) is a proven erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment which belongs to a class of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors.
• Here in the UK, standard Viagra is not available over the counter. It's only available with a prescription. This is because the drug could interfere with other medications you’re taking or cause adverse side effects for some with health conditions.
• There are other ED treatments available including generic sildenafil, Cialis and Spedra, which also require a prescription.

What Is Viagra And How Does It Work? 

Viagra is the brand name for the active ingredient sildenafil. It's a proven erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment which belongs to a class of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors.

These medications are used to treat ED by helping to relax the smooth muscle around your blood vessels, which increases blood flow to your penis and helps you get and maintain an erection when you're aroused.

Unlike treatments for premature ejaculation, Viagra is not prescribed to help you last longer in bed. While it's only prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction, some people find that it improves premature ejaculation too, because of its positive effect on erectile function and improved confidence during sex. [1]

Why Do You Need A Prescription For Viagra? 

Viagra is available in doses of 25mg, 50mg and 100mg. Here at MedExpress, we typically recommend starting with a 50mg dose if you’re new to the treatment, so you can decide if you’d prefer a higher or lower dose. This depends on how effective you find it, and whether or not you experience any side effects.

Viagra isn’t suitable if you have health conditions including recent heart events, low blood pressure, severe liver/kidney disease or retinal disorders, or if you take certain medications e.g. nitrates. So, it's essential that ED treatment is overseen by a qualified clinician. This is why standard Viagra is only available with a prescription. [2]

Another sildenafil product from the same manufacturer is Viagra Connect. Approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) as an over the counter alternative for easier access, it's not a fully unrestricted shelf product. This means you must consult a pharmacist or complete an online questionnaire to ensure it's safe for you.

Other ED Treatments Available With A Prescription

There are now many alternatives to Viagra if you want to explore different ED treatment options.

• Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra, and is sold as an unbranded or generic medication. This means it usually costs a lot less.
• Cialis contains the active ingredient Tadalafil and is known as the ‘weekend pill’ because its effects are longer-lasting (up to 36 hours). Generic Tadalafil is also available.
• Spedra is the fastest-acting ED medication. It can be taken just 15 minutes before you have sex and lasts for up to six hours.
• Vardenafil (generic Levitra) can be taken up to an hour before having sex and lasts for up to five hours.

What To Expect When You Take Viagra

Your clinical team will provide you with all the instructions you need once your prescription has been approved. You’ll take your Viagra pill around one hour before you plan to have sex, and you may feel its support for up to six hours. If it’s your first time taking Viagra, you can read our guide to what you might expect here.

Find out what treatment is suitable for you with MedExpress.

References

1. McMahon CG, Stuckey BGA, Andersen M, Purvis K, Koppiker N, Haughie S, et al. Efficacy of Sildenafil Citrate (Viagra) in Men with Premature Ejaculation. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2005 May;2(3):368–75.
2. Viagra: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects Information [Internet]. Drugs.com. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/viagra.html