Generic Viagra

The term generic Viagra refers to any product that is produced and marketed as a substitute for the branded medication Viagra. It is currently illegal to produce or sell generic alternatives to the branded erectile dysfunction treatment Viagra, which is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer. Generic Viagra contains the same active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, but it is unlikely to be as effective or as safe as the genuine product because it is not subject to the same clinical tests as the genuine medication.

Why is generic Viagra illegal?

Pfizer has Viagra legally protected by a patent, which has been in place since the medication was first launched in 1998. This patent will be in place until 21 June 2013. Until then, it is against the law for any company to manufacture a generic version of this medication.

Is generic Viagra safe?

After the patent on Viagra runs out, competitor companies will be able to produce their own versions of the medication. The products that they manufacture will be subject to a number of strict safety checks and general regulations to make sure they are safe and effective for the general public, at which point they will become available on prescription. As generic alternatives are currently illegal, any product that claims to be a ‘generic Viagra’ has been manufactured illegally and has not been subject to safety or efficacy tests. This makes the product potentially very dangerous.

Usually, companies that sell generic Viagra claim that their customers do not need a prescription to purchase the medication. This means that you are purchasing a prescription medication from a company with no knowledge of your medical condition or history. This could seriously compromise your safety. Impotence or erectile dysfunction can be an indication of an underling health concern which could be aggravated by medication that has not been prescribed to you.

How to recognise fake Viagra

Is generic Viagra effective?

Corporations that manufacture generic Viagra claim that it is as effective as the genuine medication. This is because it contains the same active ingredient as Viagra, sildenafil citrate. However, the dosage of the medication can differ from product to product. This may mean your dosage is too low to be effective, or so high it could cause adverse side effects. It is also important to remember that, without a prescription, your suitability for the treatment has not been assessed by a registered doctor. Aside from meaning that the medication may not be effective for you, it could also put your safety at risk.