Short answer: In Canada, sildenafil is prescription-only for erectile dysfunction (ED) and for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Brand-name Viagra is available, and generic sildenafil is widely available. You’d need a prescription from a licensed physician and can obtain it at a Canadian pharmacy.
Key points:
- Uses
- ED: sildenafil tablets (often 25, 50, or 100 mg) taken as needed, about 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. Typical starting dose is 50 mg, adjustments may be made by your doctor.
- PAH: sildenafil branded as Revatio, usually 20 mg tablets taken three times daily (per a physician’s guidance).
- How to get it
- See a doctor or telemedicine service to get a prescription.
- Take the prescription to a licensed Canadian pharmacy (in-person or online from a licensed Canadian source).
- It is not sold over the counter.
- Cost and coverage
- Prices vary by province, dose, and brand vs. generic. Generics are generally cheaper than brand-name Viagra.
- Public and private coverage varies; PAH (Revatio) may be covered by some plans, ED medications are less commonly covered. Check with your province’s formulary or your insurance.
- Safety and interactions
- Do not use with nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) or certain heart medications; can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure.
- Possible side effects: headaches, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness; rare vision changes; seek help for severe side effects or priapism (prolonged erection).
- Tell your doctor about other medicines and health conditions (heart disease, liver/kidney issues, low blood pressure, etc.).
- Important tips
- Use only licensed Canadian pharmacies to avoid counterfeit products.
- If you’re traveling, ensure you bring a valid prescription.
If you’d like, tell me your province and whether you’re interested in ED vs PAH, and I can help with more specifics on approval steps, typical price ranges in your area, or finding a nearby prescriber.