Sildenafil Dosage: What You Need to Know Before Taking It

When you hear Sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor used primarily to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Also known as the active ingredient in Viagra, it works by increasing blood flow to specific areas of the body—most commonly to help men get and keep an erection. But dosage isn’t one-size-fits-all. Too little and it won’t work. Too much and you risk side effects like headaches, dizziness, or worse.

The standard starting dose for most adults is 50mg, taken about an hour before sex. But if you’re over 65, have liver or kidney issues, or take other meds like nitrates, your doctor might start you at 25mg. Some people tolerate 100mg just fine, but that’s the max you should ever take in a 24-hour window. It’s not about strength—it’s about finding what your body responds to. Brands like Cenforce, a generic version of Sildenafil and Vigora, another common Sildenafil-based tablet follow the same dosage rules as branded Viagra. The pill color or shape doesn’t change how it works—only the amount of Sildenafil inside does.

What you eat, what you drink, and what else you’re taking all matter. A heavy meal can delay how fast Sildenafil kicks in. Alcohol doesn’t stop it from working, but it can make dizziness worse. And if you’re on alpha-blockers for blood pressure or HIV meds like ritonavir, your doctor needs to know—those can push Sildenafil levels too high. It’s not just about popping a pill. It’s about understanding your whole health picture.

People often ask if Sildenafil is better than Cialis or Levitra. It’s not about which is ‘better.’ It’s about which fits your life. Cialis lasts up to 36 hours. Sildenafil wears off in 4 to 6. If you want flexibility, that matters. If you’re cost-conscious, generics like Cenforce can save you a lot. But dosage stays the same across brands. No matter what you buy, the rules don’t change: start low, go slow, listen to your body.

Below, you’ll find real comparisons between Sildenafil and its most common alternatives—what works, what doesn’t, and what to watch out for. No marketing fluff. Just facts from people who’ve been there.