Generic ED Medications vs. Brand: Is There a Difference?

Most ED medications have a generic form available for them right now. But, even though there is normally a significant cost savings associated with buying the generic form, some consumers may be wary of not getting the brand name.

So, is there a real reason behind wanting a brand-name ED medication over a generic?

Below, we will cover just how brand and generic ED medications differ, go over how effective they are, and break down the brand and generic medications available for ED medications.

Generic medications have been thoroughly reviewed by the FDA

Generic ED medications, just like all generic medications, must go through a rigorous FDA review before being approved.

FDA-approved generic medications must demonstrate therapeutic equivalence to brand-name medications through bioequivalence studies. Compounded medications are regulated differently and should not be assumed to meet the same standards.

How do generic ED medications compare in efficacy to brand medications?

Generic medications approved by the FDA must meet strict bioequivalence standards. Compounded medications follow different regulatory pathways and should be discussed with your prescriber regarding individual suitability.

FDA-approved generic medications contain the same active pharmaceutical ingredients as their brand counterparts at the same strength. Compounded medications are prepared differently and should be evaluated individually with your healthcare provider. 

However, it is important to note that generic medications may have different inactive ingredients in the formulation than the brand medication, like fillers, binders, or other agents to create the rest of the formula. And, while this normally does not lead to any difference in use, if you are allergic to common fillers like lactose, it may be worth checking with your pharmacist about the inactive ingredients and letting your medical team know which inactive ingredients are unsuitable for you.

Generic ED medications may help you save money

The vast majority of medications dispensed in the United States are generic medications, and this is normally a very good thing when it comes to medication affordability.

Brand medications are the first to market, and, for a number of years after their release, the pharmaceutical company that releases them are able to sell unopposed. This, along with the need for the company to help recoup the costs associated with the development and testing of a new medication, mean that the prices of a brand-only medication can be pretty steep.

Once the medication is able to be made available in a generic form, many pharmaceutical companies tend to hop in and release generics, helping to lower the cost for the patients.

For many patients, a medication going generic means getting a therapeutically equivalent medication for a fraction of the price, and reducing their overall health care costs.

What are the generic and brand names of ED medications?

Viagra (Sildenafil)

Brand name(s): Viagra

Generic name: Sildenafil

Strengths available: 25mg, 50mg, 100mg tablets

When the medication went generic: 2017

Cialis (Tadalafil)

Brand name(s): Cialis

Generic name: Tadalafil

Strengths available: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg tablets

When the medication went generic: 2018

Levitra or Staxyn (Vardenafil)

Brand name(s): Levitra, Staxyn

Generic name: Vardenafil

Strengths available: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg tablets

When the medication went generic: 2018

Stendra (Avanafil)

Brand name(s): Stendra

Generic name: Avanafil (when it goes generic)

Strengths available: 50mg, 100mg, 200mg tablets

When the medication went generic: This medication has not yet been released as a generic medication

Strut Health ED medications prescribed online

At Strut Health we carry compounded sildenafil and compounded tadalafil tablets.We offer high-quality generic ED medications at affordable, competitive, and transparent prices. If you are interested in seeing if these medications are a good fit for you, you can have a free online questionnaire-based consultation with our U.S. licensed doctors today.

If you are a good fit for ED treatment with these medications, your prescription can be shipped to your front door with our free shipping. If you have any questions during your treatment or need adjustments, our staff and doctors are available for free unlimited follow-ups.