What Will Viagra Do? Benefits Explained | Cured Pharmacy

Clinically Proven UK Registered Pharmacy

What Will Viagra Do? Understanding the Benefits

UK-registered clinical team
Confidential and secure
No GP visit needed
Fast and discreet delivery
Start Your Free Consultation

Takes less than 2 minutes to complete 100% online

EDNEW 20% off for new customers
Genuine Products
UK-licensed only
Fast Delivery
Next-day available
Expert Advice
UK pharmacists
Man using Cured Pharmacy online consultation for erectile dysfunction treatment
From £0.45 Starting dose — clinically approved
LIVE PRICING

Our Pricing

Pricing Disclaimer: Prices on some pages may not be up to date — the live pricing table below and pricing shown during consultation are official current prices and take precedence over any other figures on the site.

Sildenafil - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Sildenafil

From £0.45

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Tadalafil - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Tadalafil

From £9.99

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Sildenafil Eropid - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Sildenafil Eropid

From £8.99

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Tadalafil (Teva) - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Tadalafil (Teva)

From £9.99

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Avarante Tablets Tadalafil Tablets 10mg - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Avarante Tablets Tadalafil Tablets 10mg

From £11.49

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Viagra Connect 50mg - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Viagra Connect 50mg

From £11.49

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment

What Will Viagra Do? Understanding the Benefits

Published on: June 03, 2026

Understanding what will viagra do for erectile dysfunction is essential before starting treatment. Viagra (sildenafil citrate) works by increasing blood flow to the penis, enabling men to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity when sexually aroused [1]. At Cured Pharmacy, our UK-registered clinical team provides free consultations and genuine licensed treatments with transparent pricing from £0.45.

How Does Viagra Work in Your Body?

Viagra contains sildenafil citrate, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor that works by blocking the enzyme responsible for breaking down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the smooth muscle cells lining blood vessels [1]. When sexual stimulation occurs, nitric oxide is released in the penis, triggering cGMP production which relaxes smooth muscle and allows increased blood flow into the erectile tissue.

By inhibiting PDE5, sildenafil allows cGMP levels to remain elevated for longer periods, sustaining the relaxation of smooth muscle and maintaining the increased blood flow necessary for an erection [2]. This mechanism only works in the presence of sexual stimulation — Viagra does not cause spontaneous erections and requires natural arousal to be effective.

Clinical studies demonstrate that sildenafil typically begins working within 30 to 60 minutes of oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached approximately one hour after dosing [1]. The effects can last for up to four to five hours, though this varies between individuals based on factors including age, metabolism, and concurrent medications.

What Will Viagra Do: Proven Clinical Benefits

In landmark clinical trials involving over 3,000 men with erectile dysfunction, sildenafil demonstrated significant improvements in erectile function across multiple measures [3]. Men taking sildenafil reported successful intercourse attempts in 76% of cases, compared to 22% in the placebo group — a clinically meaningful difference that has been replicated across diverse patient populations.

The benefits extend beyond physical function. Research published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that men using sildenafil reported substantial improvements in confidence, relationship satisfaction, and overall quality of life [4]. These psychological benefits often prove as important as the physiological improvements, particularly for men who have experienced erectile dysfunction for extended periods.

Viagra has proven effective across various causes of erectile dysfunction, including diabetes-related ED, post-prostatectomy dysfunction, and psychogenic erectile difficulties [3]. Clinical data shows response rates of 50-60% even in challenging patient groups, making it a first-line treatment recommended by NICE guidelines for erectile dysfunction management.

Success Rates Across Different Patient Groups

Clinical trials demonstrate that sildenafil effectiveness varies by underlying cause. Men with psychogenic erectile dysfunction show response rates of approximately 84%, while those with diabetes-related ED achieve successful outcomes in 56-68% of cases [3]. Understanding these variations helps set realistic expectations and guides treatment decisions alongside your UK prescriber.

Sildenafil vs Viagra: Understanding Your Options

Viagra is the branded version of sildenafil citrate, originally developed by Pfizer and licensed by the MHRA in 1998. Generic sildenafil contains the identical active ingredient at the same doses and works through the same mechanism, but is available at significantly lower cost following patent expiry in 2013.

Both branded Viagra and generic sildenafil undergo rigorous quality control and must meet identical pharmaceutical standards set by the MHRA for bioequivalence, purity, and stability [5]. The clinical effectiveness is identical — generic sildenafil produces the same blood plasma concentrations, duration of action, and success rates as branded Viagra.

At Cured Pharmacy, we offer both options with complete transparency. Generic sildenafil starts from £0.45 per tablet, whilst branded Viagra Connect is available from £0.45. Your UK prescriber will discuss which option best suits your clinical needs and budget during your free consultation, with no pressure towards either choice.

Choosing Between Generic and Branded Options

The decision between generic sildenafil and branded Viagra is primarily financial rather than clinical. Some men prefer the reassurance of the original branded product, whilst others prioritise cost-effectiveness without compromising quality. Both options require the same clinical assessment and are dispensed to identical safety standards by our UK-registered pharmacy team.

Treatment Active Ingredient Duration of Action Starting Price
Sildenafil (generic) Sildenafil citrate 4-5 hours From £0.45
Viagra Connect Sildenafil citrate 4-5 hours From £11.49
Tadalafil (generic) Tadalafil Up to 36 hours From £9.99
Cialis (branded) Tadalafil Up to 36 hours From £53.00

What to Expect When Taking Viagra

Viagra should be taken approximately one hour before planned sexual activity, though it can work as quickly as 30 minutes in some men [1]. Taking it on an empty stomach may speed absorption, whilst high-fat meals can delay onset by up to one hour. The medication does not cause automatic erections — sexual stimulation is required to trigger the natural arousal pathway that sildenafil enhances.

Most men start with a 50mg dose, which can be adjusted to 25mg or 100mg based on effectiveness and tolerability [2]. Your UK prescriber will determine the appropriate starting dose during your clinical assessment, considering factors including age, other medications, and any underlying health conditions that might influence dosing decisions.

Common side effects include headache (16% of users), facial flushing (10%), and indigestion (7%) [3]. These effects are typically mild and transient, resolving within a few hours. Serious side effects are rare but include sudden vision changes or prolonged erections lasting over four hours, which require immediate medical attention.

Tadalafil as an Alternative: Comparing Your Treatment Options

Tadalafil (marketed as Cialis) is another PDE5 inhibitor that works through the same mechanism as sildenafil but offers a significantly longer duration of action — up to 36 hours compared to sildenafil's 4-5 hours [6]. This extended window allows for greater spontaneity, as sexual activity need not be timed as precisely around medication administration.

Clinical head-to-head trials show comparable effectiveness between sildenafil and tadalafil, with similar success rates across patient populations [6]. The choice often comes down to lifestyle preferences: men who prefer planned sexual activity may favour sildenafil's shorter action, whilst those seeking weekend-long effectiveness often choose tadalafil.

Tadalafil is also available in a daily low-dose formulation (2.5mg or 5mg), which maintains constant therapeutic levels and eliminates the need to plan around tablet-taking [6]. This option suits men who engage in sexual activity more than twice weekly and prefer not to anticipate timing. Your UK prescriber can discuss whether sildenafil, on-demand tadalafil, or daily tadalafil best matches your needs.

Daily vs On-Demand Treatment Approaches

On-demand treatments like standard-dose sildenafil and tadalafil are taken before anticipated sexual activity, whilst daily tadalafil provides continuous coverage. Daily dosing may improve treatment satisfaction for men in stable relationships with frequent sexual activity, whilst on-demand options suit those with less predictable patterns or who prefer taking medication only when needed.

Getting Started with Erectile Dysfunction Treatment at Cured Pharmacy

Starting treatment begins with a free online consultation that takes under three minutes to complete. Our UK-registered prescribers review your medical history, current medications, and cardiovascular health to ensure sildenafil or alternative treatments are safe and appropriate for you. This clinical assessment is mandatory for all prescription erectile dysfunction medications under MHRA regulations.

If approved, your prescription is dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy (registration 9012511) under the supervision of superintendent pharmacist Tarun Kumar (GPhC 2233073). We use 100% discreet packaging with no external markings indicating contents, and offer next-day delivery across the UK for orders placed before our daily cut-off time.

Our transparent pricing shows exact costs before you complete your consultation — no hidden fees or surprise charges at checkout. Generic sildenafil starts from £0.45 per tablet, with various pack sizes available to suit different usage patterns. If you have questions at any stage, our UK-based pharmacy team is available on (+44) 116 4646009 during business hours.

Scientific References

  1. Goldstein, I., Lue, T. F., Padma-Nathan, H., Rosen, R. C., Steers, W. D., & Wicker, P. A. (1998). Oral sildenafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. New England Journal of Medicine, 338(20), 1397-1404. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM199805143382001 [accessed 13 August 2026]
  2. Eardley, I., Ellis, P., Boolell, M., & Wulff, M. (2002). Efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate in the treatment of men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. British Journal of Psychiatry, 181(S5), s46-s50. https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.181.5.s46 [accessed 13 August 2026]
  3. Carson, C. C., & Lue, T. F. (2005). Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction. BJU International, 96(3), 257-280. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-410X.2005.05614.x [accessed 13 August 2026]
  4. Althof, S. E. (2002). Quality of life and erectile dysfunction. Urology, 59(6), 803-810. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0090-4295(02)01606-0 [accessed 13 August 2026]
  5. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. (2020). Guidance on the licensing of generic medicines. GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/generic-medicines-licensing [accessed 13 August 2026]
  6. Porst, H., Giuliano, F., Glina, S., Ralph, D., Casabé, A. R., Elion-Mboussa, A., & Sorsaburu, S. (2006). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of once-a-day dosing of tadalafil 5mg and 10mg in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: results of a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. European Urology, 50(2), 351-359. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eururo.2006.02.052 [accessed 13 August 2026]
  7. NHS. (2026). Erectile dysfunction (impotence). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction/ Accessed 13 August 2026.

Information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. All prescription treatments require clinical assessment by a UK-registered prescriber. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

Trusted by thousands

Real people, real results

Jane L.

"Brilliant. Lost 4 stone on mounjaro no side effects at all. Cured pharmacy are excellent. Always helpful pens sent out quickly always comes with needles and sterile wipes. If you want to go on GLP-1 go to cured pharmacy. So professional. Thank you cured pharmacy you changed my health and well being."

Ann-Marie

"I absolutely love this product, I have been using 2.5mg as maintenance dose and have managed to control my weight without any side effects and can still eat well balanced meals. The pharmacy is very efficient friendly and helpful I would not purchase from anywhere else."

Sacha W.

"So far I'm really impressed by my results it's crazy cause I'm not snacking like how I used to do and I see my face slimming down already and it's only been 2 and a half weeks. Can't wait to give my feedback in 5 months time thank you cured pharmacy."

Kimberly G.

"Mounjaro has corrected my hormonal weight gain during menopause. I am using it now to maintain that balance. The results for me have been exceptional!"

Jennifer

"Great really helps cure those nasty habits can't wait for my next mounjaro pen."

How it Works?

Select from our recommended UK-licensed medications.

1

Choose your treatment

Step 1: Choose your treatment from Cured Pharmacy

Select safe UK treatments. Quick answers.

2

Answer quick questions

Step 2: Answer quick consultation questions

We will deliver direct to you as quickly as tomorrow.

3

Get it delivered fast

Step 3: Fast discreet delivery to your door

Start Your Assessment For Erectile Dysfunction

Start your journey to better health today.

  • Reviewed by UK-based prescribers
  • Takes under 3 minutes
  • Discreet Packaging

Start Your Journey To Better Health Today

Once you complete a short online assessment you will be able to choose your preferred treatment from safe medically approved options tailored to you.

Start My Assessment

Returning Customer?

Log in to Your Account

Faq

What will Viagra do if I don't have erectile dysfunction?
Viagra will not significantly enhance erections in men without erectile dysfunction, as the PDE5 enzyme it blocks is only problematic when erectile function is already impaired. It is a prescription-only medication that should only be used under clinical supervision for diagnosed erectile dysfunction.
How quickly does Viagra start working?
Viagra typically begins working within 30 to 60 minutes of taking it, with peak effects around one hour after administration. Taking it on an empty stomach may speed onset, whilst fatty meals can delay absorption.
Can I take Viagra every day?
Viagra can be taken daily if needed, though the maximum recommended frequency is once per 24-hour period. If you require treatment more than twice weekly, daily low-dose tadalafil may be a more suitable option to discuss with your UK prescriber.
What is the difference between 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg Viagra?
The dose determines the strength of effect and duration. Most men start with 50mg, which can be reduced to 25mg if side effects occur or increased to 100mg if 50mg proves insufficient. Your UK prescriber will determine the appropriate starting dose based on your clinical assessment.
Does Viagra work for everyone with erectile dysfunction?
Clinical trials show sildenafil is effective in approximately 70-80% of men with erectile dysfunction overall, though success rates vary by underlying cause. Men with psychogenic ED show higher response rates (around 84%) compared to those with diabetes-related dysfunction (56-68%).
Can I drink alcohol while taking Viagra?
Moderate alcohol consumption is generally safe with Viagra, though excessive drinking can impair erectile function and reduce treatment effectiveness. Alcohol also increases the risk of side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure when combined with sildenafil.
Is generic sildenafil as effective as branded Viagra?
Yes, generic sildenafil contains the identical active ingredient at the same doses and meets the same MHRA bioequivalence standards as branded Viagra. Clinical effectiveness, safety profile, and duration of action are identical between generic and branded formulations.
What should I do if Viagra doesn't work for me?
If sildenafil proves ineffective after several attempts at the maximum dose, your UK prescriber may recommend trying tadalafil, adjusting timing relative to meals and sexual activity, or investigating underlying causes that may require additional treatment. Alternative therapies and combination approaches can be discussed during follow-up consultation.
How much does Viagra cost at Cured Pharmacy?
Viagra prices at Cured Pharmacy start from competitive rates depending on dosage strength and pack size. Our free online consultation is included, and we offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees for discreet UK delivery.
Is Viagra available without a prescription in the UK?
No, Viagra is a prescription-only medication in the UK and cannot be legally purchased without one. Cured Pharmacy provides a free, confidential online consultation with our UK-registered prescribers who can assess your suitability and issue a prescription if appropriate.
How quickly can I get Viagra delivered in the UK?
Cured Pharmacy offers next-day discreet delivery across the UK when you order before our cut-off time. All orders are dispatched from our registered pharmacy in plain, unmarked packaging to protect your privacy.
What is the difference between Viagra and sildenafil?
Viagra is the branded version containing sildenafil citrate, while sildenafil is the generic equivalent with the same active ingredient and effectiveness. Cured Pharmacy offers both options, with generic sildenafil providing a more cost-effective alternative to branded Viagra.
Is Viagra safe to use long term for erectile dysfunction?
Yes, Viagra is generally safe for long-term use when taken as prescribed and under medical supervision. Cured Pharmacy's prescribers regularly review your treatment to ensure it remains suitable, and we're available for ongoing support throughout your ED treatment journey.
What is the difference between Viagra and generic sildenafil?
Viagra is the branded version containing sildenafil citrate, while generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient at typically lower cost. Both work identically for erectile dysfunction, and Cured Pharmacy stocks both options so you can choose based on preference and budget during your consultation.
Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist

Medically reviewed by

Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist (GPhC 2233073)

Reviewed on: June 03, 2026

Last reviewed: 13 August 2026

Last updated on 13 August 2026.

Review History

Our experts continually monitor new findings in health and medicine, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Why this page was updated on 13 August 2026

Content checked and updated as part of our periodic review, to ensure accuracy and currentness.

Current version (13 August 2026)

Edited by: The Editorial Team

Medically reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar, GPhC No. 2233073, Prescribing Pharmacist


How we source info.

When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we'll tell you where this came from.