The Bottom Line
Generic sildenafil contains the exact same active ingredient as brand Viagra. The FDA requires generics to be "bioequivalent" — meaning they work the same way at the same dose. The only difference is price and pill appearance.
Price Comparison
| Option | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Viagra | $70+ per pill | — |
| Generic Sildenafil | $2-4 per pill | 95%+ savings |
Why So Cheap?
Pfizer's patent on Viagra expired in 2017. Once a patent expires, other manufacturers can produce the same medication. Competition drives prices down dramatically.
The generic manufacturers didn't have to spend billions on R&D and marketing — they just make the proven formula.
What's Actually Different?
- Pill color/shape: Generics look different (not the blue diamond)
- Inactive ingredients: Fillers and coatings may vary slightly
- Price: 95%+ cheaper
- Active ingredient: Identical (sildenafil citrate)
- Effectiveness: Identical