What Are The Prescription Requirements For Viagra Connect In The UK?

In this article, we’ll explain the prescription requirements for Viagra Connect in the UK. We’ll look at whether Viagra is still a prescription-only medicine, how you can access Viagra Connect without a prescription and why it’s available over the counter. We’ll also explain how Viagra Connect compares to prescription Viagra and where you can buy it safely in the UK. If you’re thinking about using Viagra Connect for erectile dysfunction, it’s important to understand how it works and whether it’s the right option for you.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about the requirements for Viagra Connect in the UK:

• While branded Viagra and generic sildenafil require a prescription from a doctor, Viagra Connect can be bought without a prescription

• Making Viagra Connect available over the counter helps men access treatment for erectile dysfunction more easily and discreetly

• Both medicines contain sildenafil and are used in the same way. They are equally effective, taking around 30 minutes to work and lasting up to four hours

• The main differences between the two are strengths, pack sizes and how they are obtained

• Even though no prescription is needed, a pharmacist must assess your suitability for Viagra Connect

Is Viagra a prescription-only medication?

Viagra (the original branded version of the medication sildenafil) is classified as a prescription-only medication in the UK. This means you’ll need a prescription from a doctor to get it. At UK Meds, you can complete an online consultation for Viagra. This consultation is then checked by a doctor who will either prescribe or deny your request for the medication.

Viagra Connect, on the other hand, is available over the counter without a prescription. It also contains sildenafil as its active ingredient. Viagra Connect can also be purchased online from UK Meds.

How can I get Viagra Connect over the counter in the UK?

You can get Viagra Connect over the counter in the UK by completing a short health assessment. This can be done either in person at a local pharmacy or online with UK Meds. The consultation involves answering a few simple questions about your health, any medications you're currently taking and whether you've experienced any medical conditions that may affect your suitability for Viagra Connect.

Once the consultation is complete, a qualified pharmacist will review your responses. If they decide that Viagra Connect is appropriate and safe for you to use, they will approve your order.

If you choose to buy Viagra Connect online, you'll be asked to fill out a short consultation, which is then reviewed by a pharmacist. If approved, the medication will be delivered directly to your chosen address.

Why is Viagra Connect available without a prescription?

Viagra Connect is available without a prescription in the UK to make it easier for men to access safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. The aim is to encourage more open conversations around ED and help men get support without the need for a GP appointment.

Erectile dysfunction is common, but many men avoid getting help due to embarrassment or inconvenience. Allowing Viagra Connect to be sold without a prescription makes it more convenient to get treatment, helping men take that important first step.

Another benefit is the reduction in the number of people using unsafe, unregulated sources. Counterfeit ED medicines can be dangerous, and buying them puts people at risk. Making Viagra Connect legally available without a prescription helps fight this problem by offering a trusted alternative.

It also supports the wider healthcare system. ED can be managed safely by a pharmacist, meaning fewer NHS GP appointments are needed for this issue. 

Is Viagra also available with a prescription?

Yes, Viagra (as well as the unbranded version of the medication, sildenafil) is a prescription-only medication in the UK. To get it, you'll need a prescription from a doctor. 

How does Viagra Connect compare to Viagra?

Viagra Connect and Viagra are very similar treatments for erectile dysfunction as they both contain the same active ingredient, sildenafil. They work in the same way, typically take effect around 30 minutes after taking a tablet, and last for up to four hours.

Pfizer manufactures both Viagra and Viagra Connect, and both belong to a group of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors, which help increase blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal.

The main differences between the two lie in how they are accessed, strengths and pack sizes. Viagra Connect is available over the counter without a prescription, but only in a 50mg dose, which is the standard starting dose. 

Viagra, on the other hand, is a prescription-only medication and comes in three different strengths, 25mg, 50mg and 100mg. This can be helpful for men who need a lower or higher dose based on how they respond to treatment.

In terms of pack sizes, Viagra Connect is typically sold in packs of 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, 28 and 32 tablets. Prescription Viagra is available in packs of 4, 8 and 12 tablets, as well as larger options like 32 and 64.

The right choice depends on your needs, experience with ED treatments, and personal preference. If you’re unsure, a pharmacist or GP can help you.

Where can you get Viagra Connect over the counter in the UK?

You can buy Viagra Connect over the counter from UK Meds after you have answered a few questions for a pharmacist to review. At UK Meds, you can buy 50mg Viagra Connect in packet sizes of 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, 28 and 32 tablets.

You can also get branded, prescription Viagra from UK Meds, as well as generic sildenafil. As these require a prescription, you will need to complete our online consultation, which is then reviewed by a doctor.

Final Thoughts

Viagra Connect is a convenient and accessible way for men in the UK to treat erectile dysfunction without needing a prescription. While Viagra itself is a prescription-only medication, Viagra Connect can be purchased over the counter or online following a short consultation with a pharmacist. 

Both treatments contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way, but come in different pack sizes, strengths and ways of accessing. Making Viagra Connect available without a prescription helps improve access to treatment, supports safer use by reducing the risk of counterfeit medicines and eases pressure on NHS services.

If you’re considering using Viagra Connect or prescription Viagra/generic sildenafil, it’s important to choose the option that best suits your needs. If you are unsure, you may wish to get advice from a pharmacist or doctor.

Further Reading

Information for the user VIAGRA CONNECT® 50 mg film-coated tablets - Medicines

Sildenafil | Drugs | BNF | NICE