Here's what we'll cover

Home / Erectile Dysfunction

Viagra (Sildenafil) for Erectile Dysfunction in the Philippines: How It Works

Published 03/20/2025

Updated 03/25/2025

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue among Filipino men, affecting not only older individuals but also younger men due to stress, lifestyle, and health conditions. Studies show that more than 40% of men over 40 experience some form of ED, and this percentage increases with age (American Urological Association). While the stigma surrounding ED remains strong in the Philippines, more men are turning to medical treatments like Viagra (sildenafil) to address the condition and regain confidence in their intimate relationships.

Viagra is the most well-known ED medication, but how does it actually work? Is it safe and accessible for Filipino men? This guide explores the science behind sildenafil, its effectiveness, and what Filipinos need to know before using it.

What Is Viagra (Sildenafil)?

Viagra, with the active ingredient sildenafil citrate, is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It was originally developed to treat hypertension and heart-related conditions but was later found to be highly effective in treating erectile dysfunction.

How Does Viagra Work?

Sildenafil enhances blood flow to the corpora cavernosa, the erectile tissue in the penis, allowing for a firm and sustained erection when a man is sexually aroused. Here’s how it works step by step:

Sexual Stimulation – Sildenafil does not cause an erection on its own; it requires sexual arousal to be effective.
Nitric Oxide Release – During arousal, the body releases nitric oxide (NO), which triggers relaxation of smooth muscles in the penis.
PDE5 Inhibition – Sildenafil blocks the enzyme PDE5, which breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a compound responsible for smooth muscle relaxation.
Increased Blood Flow – By preserving cGMP levels, sildenafil allows the blood vessels in the penis to remain dilated, leading to an erection.
Natural Erection Response – Since sildenafil enhances a natural physiological process, erections only occur when sexually stimulated.

How Effective Is Viagra for Filipino Men?

According to clinical studies published in The New England Journal of Medicine, Viagra successfully improves erectile function in about 70-80% of men with ED. The effectiveness may vary based on age, overall health, and underlying conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Factors That Influence Viagra’s Effectiveness:

Dosage – Available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets. The recommended starting dose is 50mg.
Timing – Best taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity.
Food Intake – High-fat meals can slow down absorption, delaying its effects.
Alcohol and Smoking – Excessive alcohol can reduce Viagra’s effectiveness, while smoking can exacerbate ED symptoms.
Underlying Health Conditions – Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity can impact response rates.

How Long Does Viagra Last?

Viagra remains effective for about 4 to 6 hours after ingestion, with peak effects occurring within 1 to 2 hours (American Urological Association). While it allows for multiple erections within this timeframe, it does not prolong sexual stamina or delay ejaculation.

Is Viagra Safe for Filipino Men?

Viagra is generally safe when used as prescribed, but it does come with potential side effects. The World Health Organization recommends consulting a doctor before use, especially for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.

Common Side Effects:

Headache
Flushing
Nasal congestion
Indigestion
Dizziness

Rare but Serious Side Effects:

Priapism (Prolonged Erection) – If an erection lasts more than 4 hours, seek medical help immediately.
Severe Hypotension – A sudden drop in blood pressure, especially dangerous when combined with nitrate medications.
Vision Changes – Temporary blue-tinged vision or light sensitivity.
Hearing Loss – Sudden decrease or loss of hearing, though rare, has been reported.

Can You Buy Viagra Over-the-Counter in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, Viagra is classified as a prescription medication, meaning it cannot be legally purchased without a doctor’s prescription. However, generic sildenafil versions may be available in pharmacies at a lower cost.

Where to Buy Viagra in the Philippines:

Major Pharmacies: Mercury Drug, Watsons, Southstar Drug
Online Pharmacies: Some licensed online pharmacies sell sildenafil but require an e-prescription.
Clinics & Telemedicine Services: Online consultations through health platforms may provide a prescription for sildenafil.

Generic vs. Brand-Name Viagra: Which Is Better?

Many Filipinos opt for generic sildenafil due to its affordability. While the active ingredient is the same, some differences exist:

Feature	Brand-Name Viagra	Generic Sildenafil
Manufacturer	Pfizer	Various manufacturers
Price	Higher (₱500–₱800 per tablet)	Lower (₱50–₱200 per tablet)
Effectiveness	Clinically tested & FDA-approved	Comparable but may vary
Availability	Requires prescription	More widely available

While generic sildenafil is generally effective, always ensure it is sourced from reputable pharmacies to avoid counterfeit products.

Who Should Avoid Viagra?

Viagra may not be suitable for men with certain medical conditions. Avoid taking sildenafil if you:

Take nitrate medications (commonly prescribed for heart disease), as it can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Have a history of severe liver or kidney disease.
Have had a recent stroke or heart attack.
Suffer from low blood pressure (hypotension).
Have a rare genetic eye disorder (retinitis pigmentosa).

Alternative ED Treatments for Filipino Men

For those who cannot take Viagra, other ED treatments are available:

Tadalafil (Cialis) – Longer duration of action (up to 36 hours).
Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn) – Works similarly to sildenafil but may have fewer side effects.
Natural Remedies – While some herbs like Tongkat Ali and ginseng are popular, clinical evidence remains limited (PubMed).
Lifestyle Changes – Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and quitting smoking can significantly improve ED symptoms.

Is Viagra Right for You?

Viagra (sildenafil) remains one of the most effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, offering Filipino men a reliable option for improving their sexual health. However, it’s essential to use it responsibly and consult a healthcare professional before starting treatment.

What’s Next?

If you’re considering Viagra, consult with a doctor to ensure it’s the right choice for you. For more science-backed insights on men’s health and sexual wellness, visit andyou.ph.