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Active ingredient

Sildenafil

Sildenafil is the active ingredient in a group of medicines used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men. It belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It is the generic equivalent of the originally branded medicine Viagra. It is used to help men who have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity.

Reviewed by the Kamagra AUS Pharmacy Team on 5 September 2026 · Next review June 2027

Sources for the medical information on this page

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About Sildenafil

How it works

Sildenafil works by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, which allows levels of a substance called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) to rise in the tissues of the penis. This helps relax the blood vessels and improve blood flow when a man is sexually stimulated. Sexual arousal is still needed for the medicine to take effect; it does not cause an erection on its own. It generally begins to work within roughly half an hour to an hour and its effect usually lasts for a few hours.

How it is taken

Sildenafil is normally taken by mouth a short time before planned sexual activity, at the dose advised by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, although a heavy or high-fat meal may delay how quickly it starts to work. Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet and the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.

Side effects

Common (usually mild and temporary):

  • Headache
  • Flushing of the face
  • Indigestion or stomach upset
  • Nasal congestion (blocked or runny nose)
  • Dizziness
  • Changes in vision such as a blue tinge or blurring

Stop and seek medical help if you experience:

  • A painful erection lasting longer than 4 hours (priapism) — seek urgent medical help
  • Sudden loss or decrease in vision in one or both eyes
  • Sudden loss or reduction in hearing, sometimes with ringing in the ears
  • Chest pain during or after sexual activity
  • Signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, rash or difficulty breathing

Safety & who should not take it

  • Must NOT be taken with nitrate medicines (used for chest pain/angina) or nitric-oxide donors such as amyl nitrite 'poppers', as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
  • Use with caution if you have heart or blood-vessel disease, or if sexual activity has been advised against for heart reasons.
  • Tell your doctor about any liver or kidney problems, as a dose adjustment may be needed.
  • Caution is needed if you have low blood pressure or take alpha-blockers or other blood-pressure-lowering medicines.
  • Drinking alcohol can lower blood pressure further and may reduce the medicine's effectiveness.
  • Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may affect how the medicine works and are best avoided.
  • Not intended for use by women, children or anyone under 18 years of age.

Storage

Store in the original packaging below 30°C, out of the sight and reach of children, and do not use after the expiry date.

Frequently asked questions

How long does sildenafil take to work?

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It typically begins to work within around 30 to 60 minutes of being taken, though this can vary between individuals and may be delayed by a heavy meal. Check the patient information leaflet for guidance.

Can I take it with food?

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It can be taken with or without food, but a large or high-fat meal may delay the onset of its effect. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise on timing.

How is sildenafil different from Viagra?

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Viagra is simply the original brand name under which sildenafil was first sold; a generic tablet delivers the same active substance at the same strength and works no differently.

How much does sildenafil cost in Australia?

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Generic sildenafil 100mg starts from $37.57 for a 20-pack (Kamagra 100mg), with a lower per-tablet price on larger packs. Delivery is free on orders over $150, otherwise $20 flat.

More questions answered: Kamagra questions (6 answers)

Important: This information is general and not a substitute for medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine and consult a doctor or pharmacist before use — especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medication.

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