Medical consultations were also taken into consideration, as PDE5 inhibitors require a valid prescription from a licensed medical provider. However, others work on a cash-pay basis and don’t partner with insurance companies. According to the FDA, generic medications contain the same active ingredients as brand names, meaning there’s no difference in effectiveness or safety. ED medications can cause side effects, and it’s crucial to have access to a medical provider if needed. Your doctor or other health care professional can recommend one for you based on these factors, other health conditions you have and any other medicines you take. This medicine also works best when you take it an hour before sex on an empty stomach. Finding an online ED provider can feel overwhelming.Avanafil (Stendra). Sildenafil (Viagra). Tadalafil (Cialis). Vardenafil. These medicines are called PDE5 inhibitors. They enhance the effects of a chemical the body makes that relaxes muscles in the penis, called nitric oxide. This boosts blood flow and helps you get an erection from sexual activity. How oral medicines differ. CHOOSE BRAND-NAME VIAGRA. The original little blue pill prescribed by doctors for over 20 years. Clinically proven to treat men with erectile dysfunction (ED) Ongoing commitment to product quality and safety monitoring. According to price-comparison site , generic Revatio will cost you as little as $ per pill, depending on where you fill your prescription. That’s compared with more than $50 per.