Revatio vs. Viagra: A Comprehensive Comparison
October 01, 2024
4 mins
Viagra® is widely recognized as the first and most popular medication for erectile dysfunction, but fewer people are aware of its twin drug, Revatio®. While both medications share the same active ingredient — sildenafil — they are intended for different purposes, dosages, and pricing structures.
This article explores the similarities and differences between Revatio® and Viagra®, along with essential information about their use, effectiveness, and safety.
Quick Facts About Revatio and Viagra
Active ingredient: Both Revatio and Viagra contain sildenafil, but they are available at different doses.
FDA approval: Revatio is FDA-approved for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), while Viagra is FDA-approved for erectile dysfunction.
Dosage forms: Revatio is available in 20 mg tablets, whereas Viagra is offered in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets.
Prescription requirement: Both medications require a doctor’s prescription.
Understanding Sildenafil: The Common Ingredient
The backstory of Viagra
Developed in the 1980s by Pfizer, sildenafil was initially intended to treat chest pain and hypertension. During clinical trials, researchers discovered its effectiveness in improving erectile function. This unexpected side effect led Pfizer to pivot its focus, resulting in Viagra’s FDA approval in 1998 for the treatment of ED. The medication quickly gained popularity and became a multi-billion dollar product.
Viagra primarily works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping men achieve and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation.
When a man becomes sexually aroused, his body releases a substance called nitric oxide. This substance helps produce another compound known as cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which plays a key role in the erection process. Essentially, cGMP relaxes the smooth muscles in the blood vessels of the penis, allowing more blood to flow in and leading to an erection.
However, there's an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) that breaks down cGMP, limiting its effects. This is where Viagra comes in.
By acting as a PDE5 inhibitor, Viagra stops this enzyme from breaking down cGMP, allowing it to build up and work longer. This results in better blood flow and can lead to a more satisfying sexual experience.
Viagra is typically taken about 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity, and its effects can last for up to four hours. While it can be effective for many men, it’s important to remember that sexual stimulation is still necessary for the drug to work.
The introduction of Revatio
Revatio was approved by the FDA in 2005 for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. While it uses the same active ingredient as Viagra, its formulation is intended to address a different medical condition. This distinction is important for both patients and healthcare providers.
Approved by the FDA specifically for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, Revatio is used to improve exercise capacity and delay the progression of this condition, which affects the blood vessels in the lungs and leads to increased blood pressure.
Revatio works by relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs, allowing for improved blood flow and reduced pressure in the pulmonary arteries. This action is similar to how Viagra enhances blood flow to the penis, but is targeted at the lungs rather than the reproductive system. By inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), Revatio helps maintain higher levels of cGMP.
Comparing Revatio and Viagra
Pricing
When it comes to pricing, there are notable differences between Revatio and Viagra. Generally, Viagra tends to be more expensive than Revatio, primarily because Viagra is marketed specifically for erectile dysfunction – which is more widely known and used.
Both medications have generic versions available, which can significantly reduce costs. Generic sildenafil – the active ingredient in both drugs – is often much cheaper than the brand-name versions. Prices can vary based on factors like location, pharmacy, and insurance coverage, but many men find that the generic options provide a more affordable solution for their needs.
It's essential to compare prices at different pharmacies and consider generic alternatives to ensure you get the best deal on the medication that suits your condition.
Dosing
Viagra is available in higher doses — 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg — while Revatio is only available in 20 mg tablets. For men seeking ED treatment, a typical starting dose is 50 mg, with adjustments made based on effectiveness and side effects.
If a patient requires a 100 mg dose, they could theoretically take five 20 mg Revatio tablets. While this option exists, the convenience and efficacy of Viagra make it a preferred choice for many.
Administration
Revatio can be administered as an oral tablet, injection, or oral suspension, while Viagra is strictly an oral tablet. This flexibility in dosage forms for Revatio can be beneficial for patients with specific needs or preferences.
Key Point: Can I replace Viagra with Revatio, or vice versa?
In certain situations, doctors may prescribe Revatio off-label for ED, especially if a patient has difficulty obtaining Viagra or is looking for a more cost-effective option. However, the dosages differ significantly — Revatio typically comes in 20 mg tablets, while Viagra is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets. To achieve an effect similar to that of a Viagra dose, a patient would need to take multiple Revatio tablets, which might be inconvenient.
Ultimately, whether a doctor would recommend using Revatio for ED depends on the individual patient’s situation. They would consider factors like the severity of the condition, the patient’s medical history, and the potential effectiveness of using Revatio instead of Viagra.
Common Side Effects
Sildenafil is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur. The most common include:
Headaches
Indigestion
Flushing
Dizziness
Nausea
Nasal congestion
Abnormal vision
Most side effects are mild and affect fewer than 20% of patients. More serious side effects are rare but can include interactions with other medications. Sildenafil should not be taken with nitrates or certain blood pressure medications, as this combination can lead to dangerously low blood pressure.
How Rex MD Can Help
Revatio and Viagra are fundamentally the same drug, yet their intended uses, dosing, and administration differ significantly. Viagra remains the go-to medication for erectile dysfunction, while Revatio serves a crucial role in managing pulmonary arterial hypertension.
At Rex MD, we make accessing ED treatments simple and convenient. If you’re looking to keep your sex life alive or reignite the flame in the bedroom, Rex MD has got you covered. With access to quality care and erectile dysfunction treatments where clinically appropriate, your sex life is about to get that much better.
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