Description
Viagra Connect is the first treatment for erectile dysfunction available without a prescription in the UK. It is classified as a pharmacy medicine, meaning it can be purchased directly from a pharmacy following a suitability assessment, without the need for a doctor’s prescription. This makes Viagra Connect a convenient and accessible option for managing erectile dysfunction.
Side Effects
Viagra Connect has been used by millions of men worldwide and is widely regarded as a safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. Most men do not experience any side effects. However, as with all medicines, some users may experience mild effects, and serious side effects are rare, occurring in fewer than 1% of users.
Very Common Side Effects
(Affect more than 1 in 10 people)
Headache
Common Side Effects
(Affect between 1 in 10 and 1 in 100 people)
Dizziness
Blurred vision or visual disturbances
Hot flushes
Blocked or congested nose
Nausea or indigestion
If side effects are persistent, bothersome, or worsen, you should seek advice from a pharmacist or healthcare professional.
Information Leaflet
Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
More Information
What is Viagra Connect and what is it used for?
Viagra Connect contains sildenafil and is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. ED is when you have difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex.
Viagra Connect is a pharmacy medicine in the UK. This means it can be supplied by a pharmacy after an assessment to check it is suitable and safe for you.
How does Viagra Connect work?
Sildenafil improves blood flow to the penis when you are sexually aroused. It helps you achieve and maintain an erection, but it only works with sexual stimulation.
It is not an aphrodisiac and it will not increase sexual desire.
How to take Viagra Connect
- Typical dose: 50mg taken when needed.
- When to take it: about 30–60 minutes before sex.
- How often: do not take more than one dose in 24 hours.
- Food: it can be taken with or without food, but a heavy/fatty meal may delay the effect.
- Alcohol: drinking alcohol can make it harder to get an erection and may reduce the benefit.
How long does Viagra Connect last?
The effects can last for several hours. Many people find it provides support for erections for up to 4 hours, although response varies from person to person.
Who can use Viagra Connect?
Viagra Connect is intended for adult men (18+) with erectile dysfunction.
A pharmacist/clinician will check your symptoms, medical history and medicines to confirm suitability.
Who should not use Viagra Connect?
Do not take Viagra Connect if any of the following apply:
- You take nitrates (for chest pain/angina) or nitrite “poppers”.
- You take riociguat (for pulmonary hypertension).
- You have been advised to avoid sexual activity for medical reasons.
- You have severe heart or liver problems, very low blood pressure, or have recently had a stroke/heart attack (unless a clinician has confirmed it’s safe).
- You have certain rare inherited eye conditions or previous sudden vision loss linked to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve.
- You are allergic to sildenafil or any ingredients in the tablet.
If you’re unsure, speak to a pharmacist or clinician before taking it.
Interactions with other medicines
Some medicines can make sildenafil unsafe or less suitable. Tell your pharmacist/clinician if you use:
- Nitrates or nicorandil (important interaction)
- Medicines for pulmonary hypertension (e.g., riociguat)
- Alpha-blockers for prostate symptoms/high blood pressure
- Some antibiotics/antifungals or HIV medicines (they may increase sildenafil levels)
- Other ED treatments (do not combine unless specifically advised)
Side effects of Viagra Connect
Most people tolerate Viagra Connect well, but side effects can happen.
Very common
(More than 1 in 10)
- Headache
Common
(Up to 1 in 10)
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision or visual disturbances
- Flushing (warmth/redness)
- Blocked or runny nose
- Nausea or indigestion
If side effects are persistent, troublesome, or worsen, seek medical advice.
When to seek urgent help
- Chest pain during or after sex
- An erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism)
- Sudden loss of vision or hearing
- Severe allergic reaction (swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread rash)
If any of the above occur, get urgent medical help immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Will Viagra Connect work the first time?
Many men respond the first time, but it can take a few attempts to find the right timing (and to avoid heavy meals or excess alcohol). If it doesn’t help after several tries, speak to a clinician.
Can I take Viagra Connect every day?
Viagra Connect is generally taken as needed. If you feel you need ED treatment very frequently, it’s best to discuss this with a clinician so you can consider the most suitable option.
Does Viagra Connect protect against STIs or work as contraception?
No. Viagra Connect does not prevent sexually transmitted infections and it is not a contraceptive.
What if it doesn’t work for me?
ED can have physical and psychological causes. A clinician can help review triggers, lifestyle factors, and alternative treatments if needed.
Important: Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine. You can also report suspected side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme: https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/
