As a widely known medication for treating erectile dysfunction, Viagra has revolutionized the lives of countless men. In 2020, there were about three million prescriptions written for Viagra in the United States [1].

If you have been prescribed Viagra or its generic equivalent, Sildenafil Citrate, you are probably wondering whether the expiration date written on the medication is legitimate.

Understanding expiration dates of any medication is important for ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Continue reading to understand what the expiration date means for both brand and generic versions, how they affect the medication’s effectiveness, and why choosing high-quality generics from a reputable pharmacy is a wise decision.

What Does A Medication’s Expiration Date Mean?

The expiration date of a medication, including Viagra and its generics, is the final date that the manufacturer guarantees for the product’s complete safety and potency. The date of expiry is typically listed on the labels of most drugs, including Viagra and its generic counterparts [2].

The expiration date of Viagra and its generics is determined through strict stability testing, ensuring that the active formulation, which is Sildenafil Citrate, retains its potency and safety.

While both the brand version of Viagra and its generic version, Sildenafil, contain the same active ingredient, their expiry dates may differ slightly due to variations in inactive ingredients or manufacturing processes used by different manufacturers.

Does Viagra (or Generic Sildenafil) Expire?

Viagra and its generic equivalent, Sildenafil, do expire. Below are some key points to consider.

Stability of Sildenafil Citrate

Sildenafil citrate, the active ingredient present in both brand-name Viagra and its generic counterparts, is chemically stable when appropriately kept. To maintain its effectiveness, it should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture.

When stored properly, Sildenafil citrate generally maintains its potency up to its expiration date and in many cases slightly beyond. However, it is essential to note that the effectiveness of the medication diminishes over time.

Generic vs. Brand Versions

Generic Sildenafil, available at our online pharmacy Vedi Care, such as Aurogra 100 mg and Cenforce 150 mg oral tablets, is just as effective and safe as brand-name Viagra. Both undergo rigorous regulatory testing by the FDA or other equivalent authorities to ensure safety, efficacy, and quality. The date of expiry on our generics reflects that same thorough testing as the brand-name product, so that you can trust their reliability and potency through the listed date.

Storage

Whether it’s a brand or generic, not storing them properly (e.g., exposure to heat, humidity, or light) can accelerate the degradation of the medication. Always store your medicines as directed to maximize their shelf life and effectiveness.

What’s The Shelf Life of Viagra and Its Generic Counterpart?

The shelf life of generic Sildenafil or Viagra may vary slightly by manufacturer, but in general, this medication for erectile dysfunction expires approximately two years after its manufacturing date.

Can You Take Expired Viagra Or Its Generic?

The FDA does not recommend using medications, including Viagra and its generic version, past their expiration dates. Taking them past their shelf life may lead to various side effects, such as feeling pins and needles throughout the body, seizures, vision problems, muscle aches or pains, especially in the back, stomach pain, heart attacks, diarrhea, and feelings of itchiness [3].

If you have taken a Viagra tablet or its generic equivalent after it has expired and notice any of these side effects, stop using the medication immediately and seek medical attention.

What Happens to Viagra And Its Generic When It Expires?

Here’s what will start to happen to Viagra and its generic versions once it expires.

• The active ingredient becomes less effective; as a result, the medication takes longer to take effect and works less well overall.
• The risk of growing bacteria and mold increases, increasing your risk of getting sick.
• As the ingredients of the ED medicine break down, the adverse effects of the medication can increase in frequency.

What To Do With Outdated Viagra or Its Generic Counterpart?

The best thing one can do with Viagra or its generic version that has expired is to dispose of it. Below are the safest ways to dispose of them:

• Read the disposal instructions on the medication label and follow them carefully.
• Throw the tablets in the trash in a sealed packet or container mixed with dirt or cat litter. Avoid throwing Viagra away by itself, as children, pets, or others in your household can get to it easily if they are not contained.
• Do not flush the Viagra pills down the toilet.

Why Choose Generic Sildenafil From Our Online Pharmacy?

Vedi Care Health is a trusted online pharmacy specializing in authentic and affordable generic Sildenafil. Below are the main reasons why our generics are a great choice.

Regulatory compliance: The generics available at our e-pharmacy are sourced directly from reputable manufacturers that adhere to strict quality standards, ensuring precise expiration dates to guarantee product freshness and quality.

Same active ingredient: Our generic Sildenafil is composed of the same active ingredient, Sildenafil citrate, as brand Viagra, ensuring equal effectiveness for managing ED.

Convenient Delivery: At Vedi Care, we offer fast and discreet shipping, so you can receive fresh, unexpired medication right at your doorstep.

How Do I Take Viagra Or Its Generic For The Best Results?

For effective results, you should take Viagra or its generic version on an empty stomach, one hour before you expect to have intercourse. A regular dose of this ED medication should remain effective for almost four hours.

Avoid drinking alcohol while using the medication, and if you use other drugs, check with your healthcare professional to make sure they do not interact with Viagra or its generic counterpart.

Alternative Home Remedies For ED

Fortunately, there are some natural treatments for ED if you find yourself with Viagra or its generic version that’s gone off.

Try the following natural remedies if you are waiting for a Viagra or its generic prescription to be filled, or if you think you need additional support for managing ED symptoms.

Red ginseng is an herbal supplement consisting of ginsenosides. A study by Dai-Ja Jang et al. found that red ginseng may help alleviate the symptoms of ED. Ginseng can cause adverse effects, such as drops in blood sugar levels, so consult your doctor before trying it.

Reduce or quit smoking: Nicotine and tobacco can restrict flow flow to the penis as proper blood flow is necessary to get an erection. This can make it challenging to get and keep an erection.

Exercise: Some research suggests that regular exercise, especially pelvic floor exercise, should be a first-line approach in treating ED.

L-arginine: It is an amino acid that may help with proper blood flow to the penis that can cause ED symptoms. Don’t take it at the same time as Viagra or generic Sildenafil, as it can cause adverse effects like diarrhea and nausea.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using Viagra or generic Sildenafil within its expiration date is essential for maintaining its potency and effectiveness in treating ED. Expired Viagra and its generic counterpart may not provide the desired therapeutic benefits due to chemical degradation, resulting in reduced efficacy. Proper storage, in a dry and cool place away from heat and moisture, can help extend the medication’s effectiveness throughout its shelf life.

If you are someone looking for genuine generic versions of Sildenafil, then visit our online pharmacy, Vedi Care Health. At Vedi Care, we are committed to providing high-quality, affordable, and reliable generic ED drugs, delivered with care. Whether you are managing ED or exploring treatment options, our generics offer the same therapeutic benefits as the brand-name version at an affordable price.