Viagra prices and the best way to save
Viagra is a brand name sildenafil drug that doctors can prescribe to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Viagra can start at $70 per dose, but sildenafil, the generic version, can cost as little as $2.
People can also use coupons, discounts, and patient assistance programs (PAPs) to save money on sildenafil and Viagra.
This article looks at Viagra prices and provides tips on how a person can save money on this medication. It also discusses safety, side effects, and lists some frequently asked questions.
Please note the writer has not tried these products. All information is research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Viagra and sildenafil are available at different prices. The price depends on factors such as brand name, retailer, and dose.
Several companies sell Viagra and sildenafil online, including:
- Roman: This telehealth company sells prescription medication for ED, among other conditions. Individuals require a prescription from a licensed medical doctor in the United States. Learn more about Roman.
- Hims: This telehealth company specializes in male health and offers both Viagra and sildenafil for people with ED. After creating an account, the company connects people with a healthcare professional in their state of residence to discuss treatment options and medications. Learn more about Hims.
- Lemonaid: People need to complete an online assessment and answer follow-up questions with a healthcare professional to use this service.
- Rex MD: People will need an existing prescription to use this service. The company offers free shipping. Learn more about Rex MD.
- BlueChew: This company offers chewable sildenafil tablets. However, these products are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Learn more about BlueChew.
The following table lists which drugs each company sells and how much it may cost.
| Viagra | Generic Viagra | Sildenafil | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roman | available in 25, 50, and 100 mg, starting at $70 per dose | available in 25, 50, and 100 mg, starting at $34 per dose | starts at $2 per dose |
| Hims | available in 25, 50, and 100 mg, starting at $70 per dose | available in 25, 50, and 100 mg, starting at $4 per dose | starts at $4 per dose |
| Lemonaid | available, no price advertised | available, starting at $2 per tablet | not available |
| Rex MD | available in 25, 50, and 100 mg, starting at $90 per dose | available in 25, 50, and 100 mg, starting at $10 per dose | not available |
| BlueChew | not available | not available | available in 30 and 45 mg chewable tablets, starting at $40 per month |
Private health insurers may cover part of the costs of generic sildenafil but may not pay for Viagra. A person should check their insurance coverage before purchasing sildenafil or Viagra to ensure they do not incur unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
However, Medicare may cover part of the costs of sildenafil or Viagra.
Medicare Part A offers benefits for people in the care of a skilled nursing facility. If a healthcare professional prescribes Viagra or sildenafil for a cardiovascular condition, Medicare may cover part of the costs.
Similarly, Medicare Part B offers coverage for a person’s treatment in clinical settings if Medicare deems the treatment medically necessary. While it is unlikely Medicare will cover the costs of Viagra or sildenafil in most cases, it may offer benefits for people who receive ED treatment in erectile dysfunction clinics.
Medicare Part D offers prescription drug benefits. While Medicare will not cover the costs of prescription Viagra for erectile dysfunction as it does not deem the drug medically necessary, it may help cover the cost if a doctor prescribes a person Viagra for a cardiovascular condition.
There are several ways a person may save money when purchasing Viagra.
Choosing generic medication
People may wish to choose generic Viagra or sildenafil instead of Viagra. The generic versions of the drug have the same ingredients and are often available in the same dosages.
Additionally, some companies may sell generic Revatio, another sildenafil drug. This is available in oral tablet, oral suspension, and injectable forms.
Discounts
Purchasing Viagra or sildenafil from telehealth companies may be cheaper than receiving a prescription from a person’s primary healthcare professional.
Many telehealth companies offer discounts for first-time buyers. Additionally, some companies offer monthly subscriptions that may cost less than buying Viagra elsewhere.
However, a person should ensure that the telehealth company they are using is reputable.
People should only purchase medication from an online pharmacy with U.S. licensed pharmacists and other healthcare professionals available to fill prescriptions and answer any questions.
Additionally, people should ensure that the company they are using has a seal of approval from the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. This means that the company is legal and does not sell counterfeit drugs.
Patient assistance programs (PAPs)
Some pharmaceutical companies may offer PAPs to help cover the costs of Viagra.
Pharmaceutical companies may offer prescription drugs to people who are uninsured for a lower cost. Each company will have its own criteria for eligibility, but people will likely have to provide proof of their citizenship and income.
People can either contact a pharmaceutical company directly by telephone or complete forms on the company’s website. Many PAP forms require a doctor’s signature.
Coupons
Some pharmacies may offer coupons that can help reduce the cost of prescription medication.
A person can either search their local pharmacy’s website or go into the store to speak to an employee to find out if the pharmacy offers coupons and discounts.
Research notes that sildenafil is an effective treatment for ED that is well-tolerated in most people. Additionally, sildenafil is effective across different age groups, including those who are 75 years and older.
However, sildenafil and Viagra can cause side effects, including:
Viagra or sildenafil may not be suitable for everyone. For example, people should not use this drug if they:
- have had a previous allergic reaction to the drug
- are taking medications called nitrates
- have a heart or liver condition
- have had a stroke or heart attack
- have low blood pressure
- have certain inherited eye conditions, such as retinitis pigmentosa
When to contact a doctor immediately
A person should urgently contact their doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms:
Below are the answers to some common questions about Viagra.
Is sildenafil the same as Viagra?
Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra. Viagra’s active ingredient is sildenafil.
Both of these drugs treat ED the same way. Many companies sell Viagra and sildenafil, although sildenafil is often less expensive than Viagra.
How much does sildenafil cost?
The cost of sildenafil can vary depending on the company that sells it and any discounts that a person may have.
However, telehealth companies sell sildenafil starting from $2 per dose. Some companies may sell sildenafil for a certain amount per month, which may be cheaper depending on the amount of the drug a person requires.
How much does Viagra cost per pill?
Viagra often costs more per pill than sildenafil.
The price per pill may depend on factors such as which company a person purchases from and the dosage they require. However, people can expect to pay around $70 per dose.
How much does Viagra cost with insurance?
Medicare does cover the cost of Viagra in most cases as it does not deem the drug medically necessary. However, a person may receive help with costs if a doctor prescribes it for cardiovascular conditions.
A person should check with their private health insurance company to see if it covers all or part of the costs of Viagra.
However, a person may be able to receive help with the costs of their medication through PAPs and by using discounts and coupons from their local pharmacy. Additionally, some telehealth companies may offer discounts for first-time users.
Viagra is a medication that doctors may prescribe for erectile dysfunction. The drug is available with a prescription from local pharmacies and online telehealth companies.
The price of Viagra may vary depending on the dosage and whether the company offers the generic version, sildenafil. While Medicare and private health insurance may not assist with costs, people can contact pharmaceutical companies directly for patient assistance programs or check whether their local pharmacy offers discounts and coupons.
Last medically reviewed on January 16, 2022
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