Revatio vs Viagra: Understanding the Difference

Viagra is an effective medication prescribed for the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction, a common sexual issue that affects around 30 million men in the US. It is available in a range of strengths and multiple generic forms. Hence, people often confuse Viagra with other similar medications, such as Revatio.

While both Revatio and Viagra contain the same active ingredient, they are prescribed for two distinct medical conditions. However, they might share some benefits, side effects, and interactions.

So, which pill is the ideal choice for you? Can you take Revatio in place of Viagra?

Let us understand the differences between these two medications through a complete comparison between Revatio vs Viagra.

Revatio vs Viagra: What is the difference

As mentioned above, both Revatio and Viagra contain the same active ingredient- Sildenafil Citrate. It is a Phosphodiesterase Type-5 (PDE-5) inhibitor that promotes blood flow by restoring the levels of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP).

However, Viagra is primarily prescribed for the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction, Revatio is approved for the treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)- a condition of high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. 

Hence, these two medications vary in their working and dosages.

How Viagra works

Viagra mainly works by improving penile blood flow. Sildenafil, being a PDE-5 inhibitor, blocks the action of the PDE-5 enzyme, hence preventing the breakdown of cGMP and increasing blood flow to the penis. This gives you stronger, better erections.

In most cases, Viagra is prescribed in different dosages of Sildenafil, including 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, or 200mg, taken as required. It is ideally taken about 30-60 minutes before sexual intercourse.

How Revatio works

Revatio works in a similar way by blocking the PDE-5 enzymes, which relaxes smooth muscle cells in the pulmonary arteries. This reduces the resistance in the lungs, enhancing respiratory function.

The typical dosage of Revatio for treating PAH is 20 mg, taken orally three times a day. The doses should be spaced about 4 to 6 hours apart to maintain consistent levels of the medication in the bloodstream.

Are Revatio and Viagra similar

While used for different purposes, Revatio and Viagra can have overlapping effects. For instance, Revatio may boost penile blood flow as a secondary effect. Conversely, Viagra, mainly used for Erectile Dysfunction, may have some impact on PAH symptoms due to its mechanism of action, though it is not usually prescribed for this condition.

However, these secondary effects are generally unreliable. Hence, it is advised to stick to your doctor’s prescription for your particular condition. 

Besides these shared effects, Revatio and Viagra may also share some side effects of Sildenafil, such as headache, flushing, or indigestion. Additionally, both these pills can interact with other medications, such as nitrates and alpha-blockers.

A comprehensive comparison

Conclusion

Viagra and Revatio are two well-known medications used to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) respectively. Although both these medications contain the same active ingredient- Sildenafil Citrate, they have distinct functions in the body.

Viagra promotes blood flow to the penis, resulting in improved erections. On the other hand, Revatio vasodilates the arteries in the lungs, resulting in enhanced airflow.

Both Viagra and Revatio may share some benefits and side effects, such as headaches, flushing, and upset stomach. Nevertheless, it is best not to use these medications interchangeably and stick to the medication prescribed by your doctor.

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