Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common male sexual condition characterized by persistent difficulties attaining or sustaining an erection hard enough for satisfying sexual intercourse. And Oral medicines are the first line of treatment for ED.

Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), Levitra (vardenafil), and Stendra (avanafil) are FDA-approved oral drugs that palliate ED by boosting the effects of nitric oxide, a chemical that augments blood flow to the penile organ for an erection during sexual arousal.

These medications belong to a class of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors. They inhibit the secretion of the enzyme PDE5 (phosphodiesterase-5) in order to stop the degradation of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP). When this happens, the body releases nitric oxide on sexual stimulation, allowing a man to experience an erection.

So, is there a generic ED drug available?

Yes, the generic version of each drug is available, which is much, much cheaper than their branded counterparts. Generic sildenafil, generic tadalafil, generic vardenafil, and generic avanafil are available and have all been proven to be safe and effective when it comes to treating ED.

These generic ED drugs are similarly effective. The American College of Physicians recommends that the choice be based on a patient’s preferences, including cost, ease of use, how long the drug’s effects last and side effects,” according to Mayo Clinic.

“There are generic versions of sildenafil, vardenafil and tadalafil available,” says Mayo Clinic.

Why generic ED drugs are so cheap?

According to MedicineNet, generic drugs are copies of brand-name drugs that have exactly the same dosage, intended use, effects, side effects, route of administration, risks, safety, and strength as the original drug.

An example of a generic ED drug is sildenafil. A brand name for sildenafil is Viagra. Another generic ED drug is tadalafil, whereas a brand name for the same drug is Cialis.

Generic ED drugs are cheaper because the manufacturers do not have to spend on developing and marketing a new drug. On the other, companies that develop branded drugs have to spend substantial money on research and development, marketing, promotion, and advertisement of the drug.

Getting generic ED drugs online

Generic ED drugs are big business and there are many unregulated online sources. If you prefer buying generic ED drugs online, make sure you check the online pharmacy you select is legitimate. You should never order medications from an unregulated store that tells you not to provide a prescription. There are many illegal businesses that sell fake versions of generic ED medications, which can be ineffective or dangerous, according to Mayo Clinic. Also, check for pharmacies that are registered with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.