Can I Buy Viagra Online? Everything You Need to Know

Although erectile dysfunction (ED) may be an upsetting diagnosis for some, many people find their condition is treatable. Viagra, also sometimes called the “little blue pill,” may help.

If you’re looking for convenience or discretion, that little blue pill is available online for direct-to-consumer delivery. However, you still need a prescription.

Today, several telehealth companies, such as Roman, Hims, and Lemonaid, have doctors and other licensed medical professionals on hand to prescribe the appropriate medication, if necessary.

Keep reading to learn more about how Viagra works, its alternatives, and how Viagra compares with other ED medications.

How common is erectile dysfunction?

ED is very common. In the United States alone, researchers estimate around 30 million men have the condition.

ED is defined as the inability to develop and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity or penetrative sex.

Changes in some lifestyle habits, such as activity levels and nutrition, can make a positive difference, as well as the use of medications in some cases.

Viagra is a brand-name prescription drug approved to treat ED. Viagra contains sildenafil, which belongs to a class of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.

Viagra is the well-known brand-name version of this medication. It works by increasing blood flow to your penis, which helps you have and keep an erection. However, it only works if you’re sexually aroused.

Viagra is approved for use in those who are 18 years and older.

Though Viagra is manufactured by Pfizer, plenty of other companies also make and sell less expensive versions of generic sildenafil pills.

• Have an accurate diagnosis and prescription: Remember that Viagra and generic sildenafil are not available over the counter — you need a prescription. Some companies have healthcare professionals on their team who can assess you before your purchase and make an accurate ED diagnosis.
• Use a licensed pharmacy to avoid counterfeit medications: Oral medications for ED are among the most counterfeited medications in the world. Online pharmacies can sell counterfeit medications, so it’s important to do your research before you buy from any retailer.
• Buy from online pharmacies operating in the country and state you live in: In 2014, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy found that 97% of the internet pharmacies it examined were not compliant with federal laws, state laws, or industry standards.

Counterfeit Viagra is known to contain amphetamines, toxic chemicals, the wrong dose of active ingredients, and even blue printer ink.

It’s a good practice to avoid international websites. Each country has its own governance when it comes to manufacturing. Stick to reputable sites and pharmacies you can trust.

If you’re interested in buying Viagra online, read on to learn more about the considerations you should make.

Best overall

Hims is a telehealth company that provides both prescription and over-the-counter generic and brand-name medications. The brand focuses mainly on five FDA-approved medications, including Viagra.

The first step is a consultation with an online qualified medical professional who will make a diagnosis and prescribe the best ED treatment for you. They’ll also answer any questions you have, and they may be contacted in the future to make treatment adjustments.

If you’re prescribed Viagra, you can purchase it in doses of 25, 50, or 100 milligrams (mg). Hims recommends taking Viagra anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity. You can purchase a one-time order or sign up for a subscription plan that sends you a monthly supply of the pills in discreet packaging.

Price: Branded Viagra is available starting at $139 per dose. Generic Viagra is also available through Hims at a lower price.

Best for variety

Roman

Roman is a healthcare technology company that sells FDA-approved men’s health products.

The first step is to schedule a $15 consultation with one of their licensed healthcare professionals to assess your symptoms and come up with a treatment plan. If Roman’s products or telemedicine is not a good fit for you, Roman will refund you your money.

Not all of Roman’s ED products require a prescription. However, you need one for Viagra. Roman sells both generic Viagra and brand-name Viagra, and they’re available in 25-mg, 50-mg, and 100-mg tablets.

After you place your order, Roman will ship your items for free in discreet packaging. The company can also send your order to your local pharmacy for an added fee. If you want to make changes to your order, Roman offers free unlimited follow-ups with their healthcare professionals.

Price: Branded Viagra costs $70 per dose. Generic Viagra and sildenafil is also available through Roman at a lower price.

Best budget option

Lemonaid

Lemonaid is a telehealth medicine service that connects people with healthcare professionals. It offers highly competitive mail-order pharmacy pricing.

After you select the condition you want to be treated for, Lemonaid asks you to complete an online assessment.

If you’re a good candidate after the medical review, you pay a $25 flat fee for a consultation with a licensed medical professional. Lemonaid offers a range of ED pills, including 20-mg sildenafil pills.

Lemonaid will then prescribe you treatment for your ED, and send your prescription to the company’s mail-order pharmacy.

Price: Generic Viagra is available from $25 – $65 based on the dosage. Sildenafil is also available through Lemonaid at a lower price.

Best alternative to Viagra device

Eddie by Giddy

Eddie by Giddy is an alternative to Viagra for anyone looking to avoid pills.

Eddie is an FDA-registered, Class 2 wearable ED device that keeps blood flowing in your penis, allowing you to maintain an erection without constricting your urethra or arteries.

It comes in four different sizes. Each package comes in a discreet box. Eddie’s design is meant to fit the penis comfortably and constricts only where it’s needed, thanks to the adjustable tension bands.

Giddy offers free shipping, free resizing, and a money-back guarantee if your ED symptoms don’t improve within 30 days. According to the company, Eddie should not result in any harmful side effects when used properly. Side effects resulting from misuse of Eddie should be minor and infrequent.

That being said, it’s important to make sure to talk with a doctor before using this product.

Price: For $188 you get the device, six tension bands (three sport, three comfort), and a 30-day training program to help you treat your ED.