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.Â
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
| Feature | Revatio | Viagra |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Name | Sildenafil | Sildenafil |
| Brand Name | Revatio | Viagra |
| Primary Use | Treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) | Treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED) |
| Dosage Forms | Tablets (20 mg) | Tablets (25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg) |
| Typical Dosage | 20 mg three times a day | 50 mg as needed, typically 1 hour before sexual activity |
| Mechanism of Action | Vasodilation of pulmonary arteries | Vasodilation of penile arteries |
| Onset of Action | About 30 minutes to 1 hour | About 30 minutes to 1 hour |
| Duration of Action | About 4-6 hours | About 4-6 hours |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, flushing, upset stomach, nasal congestion | Headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion |
| Serious Side Effects | Severe hypotension, pulmonary edema | Priapism (prolonged erection), sudden loss of vision or hearing |
| Interactions | May interact with nitrates, alpha-blockers, and other antihypertensives | May interact with nitrates, alpha-blockers, and some antifungals/antibiotics |
| Approval | Approved by the FDA for PAH | Approved by the FDA for ED |
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Revatio as good as Viagra?
The effectiveness of Revatio and Viagra varies based on the specific condition being treated. Revatio is prescribed for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), while Viagra treats Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
What is the price difference between Revatio and Viagra?
The price difference between Revatio and Viagra can be significant. Revatio is generally less expensive due to its use for pulmonary arterial hypertension and insurance coverage variations. Exact costs depend on dosage, quantity, and pharmacy pricing.
Is there anything better than Viagra for Erectile Dysfunction?
Yes, alternatives to Viagra (sildenafil) for erectile dysfunction include Cialis (tadalafil), Levitra (vardenafil), and Stendra (avanafil). These medications differ in onset time, duration of action, and side effects, and their effectiveness can vary based on individual response and medical conditions.
Can I take 100mg of Revatio?
Revatio, prescribed for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, typically comes in a 20mg dose taken three times daily. Taking 100mg is not recommended without medical supervision, as the dosage and frequency differ from Viagra’s use for Erectile Dysfunction. Always follow your doctor’s guidance
What happens if you take 2 Viagra in 24 hours?
Taking two Viagra tablets in 24 hours can increase the risk of side effects such as headaches, dizziness, indigestion, nasal congestion, vision changes, and potentially serious issues like Priapism (prolonged erection) and cardiovascular problems. Always follow the prescribed dosage and consult your doctor.
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