Viagra is the original brand name for the drug sildenafil, so the two names refer to the same medicine. "Viagra" is the brand made by Pfizer; "sildenafil" is the generic (active-ingredient) name. There are also other brand and generic names, plus a separate brand for a different use. This article sorts out the names to avoid confusion.
It is a topic in our erectile dysfunction and men's health section.
Brand versus generic name
Every medicine has two kinds of name: the generic (the active ingredient) and the brand (the company's trade name). Here, sildenafil is the generic name, and Viagra is the best-known brand. Generic sildenafil and brand Viagra contain the same drug.
Other names you may see
Besides Viagra, you may encounter other brand names for sildenafil in different countries, as well as plain "sildenafil" or "sildenafil citrate" for the generic. The lower-dose pharmacist product in the UK is "Viagra Connect". These are all the same active ingredient.
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Viagra | original brand (Pfizer) |
| Sildenafil / sildenafil citrate | generic name |
| Viagra Connect | UK pharmacist-sold low dose |
| Revatio | same drug, for pulmonary hypertension |
The same drug for a different use
Sildenafil is also sold under another brand (Revatio) for pulmonary arterial hypertension, at different doses. It is the same molecule but a different product and indication, so always use the version your prescriber intends for ED.
Why it matters
Knowing that Viagra and sildenafil are the same helps you choose the cheaper generic with confidence, and avoid paying brand prices unnecessarily. It also helps you recognise that "sildenafil" on a label is the genuine drug, not a different product.
Watch for fakes
Unofficial names like "red Viagra" or exotic-sounding products from unverified sites are a warning sign, not a reassurance. Stick to recognised names from a licensed pharmacy. For one such unofficial product, see what is red Viagra.
Red Viagra: what is red Viagra. USA: generic in the USA. Dosing: how to take Viagra.
Talking to your pharmacist
Knowing the names helps when you talk to a pharmacist. Asking for 'generic sildenafil' rather than 'Viagra' makes it clear you want the cheaper equivalent, and recognising 'sildenafil citrate' on a label confirms it is the genuine active ingredient. It also helps you avoid confusion with the pulmonary-hypertension brand, which is the same molecule at different doses. Clear language leads to the right product at the right price.
Why it pays to know
Knowing that Viagra and sildenafil are one and the same pays off in confidence and savings. It lets you accept the cheaper generic without worrying it is inferior, recognise the genuine active ingredient on a label, and avoid confusion with the pulmonary-hypertension brand. It also helps you spot dubious 'novelty' names from unverified sellers. A little knowledge of the names is a simple safeguard against both overpaying and being misled.
Frequently asked questions
- Are Viagra and sildenafil the same?
- Yes; Viagra is the brand name and sildenafil is the generic (active-ingredient) name for the same drug.
- What other names are there?
- Generic "sildenafil", Viagra Connect in the UK, and Revatio for pulmonary hypertension.
- Why does it matter?
- It lets you choose the cheaper generic confidently and recognise genuine products.