Viagra (sildenafil) is one of the most well-known medications for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). But with its popularity comes a major concern: counterfeit pills.
But how do you know what’s real and what’s fake? What does Viagra / Sildenafil look like? In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what real Viagra looks like and how to spot a fake one to protect your health and safety.
What Do Viagra Pills Look Like?
Online scammers often sell fake sildenafil pills. In fact, a shocking 77% of online sellers actually sell counterfeit Viagra, according to a study. What’s worse is that these fake pills may contain the wrong ingredients, incorrect dosages, or even harmful substances. This could lead to severe side effects, allergic reactions, or ineffective treatment.
To give you an overview, here’s how Viagra pills should look like:
- Viagra Colour and Shape: Viagra is typically blue and diamond-shaped (four-sided).
- Viagra Pill Identification (Markings and Size): Genuine Viagra has “Pfizer” engraved on one side and “VGR” with dosage on the other. The size depends on the dosage. But all are small, solid tablets designed for oral use.
- Viagra 100mg: 14mm
- Viagra 50mg: 11mm
- Viagra 25mg: 9mm
What Does Generic Viagra Look Like?
This is where it gets tricky. While brand-name Viagra is always blue and diamond-shaped, generic Sildenafil pills can vary in colour, shape, and markings depending on the manufacturer.
- Some generics are round, oval, or oblong instead of diamond-shaped.
- It can also be white, yellow, or blue.
- Unlike Viagra, generic versions do not have “Pfizer” engraved. Instead, they may have a different manufacturer’s name and a unique imprint code.
Differences Between Viagra, Viagra Connect, and Generic Sildenafil
Viagra, Viagra Connect, and generic Sildenafil all contain the same active ingredient, Sildenafil. But they aren’t exactly the same. They differ based on prescription requirements, cost, ability to access, and branding. Here’s how they compare:
Viagra (Prescription Only)
- Brand-name version of sildenafil, made by Pfizer.
- Requires a doctor’s prescription in Canada.
- Comes in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets.
- Typically more expensive due to branding.
Viagra Connect (Over-the-Counter in Some Countries)
- Available without a prescription (OTC) in countries like the UK but not in Canada.
- Available exclusively in a 50 mg dose.
- Sold for mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.
- Same active ingredient as Viagra but marketed for easier access.
Generic Sildenafil (Prescription Only in Canada)
- Contains the same active ingredient as Viagra at a lower cost.
- Available in various shapes, colors, and markings depending on the manufacturer.
- Must be prescribed by a healthcare provider in Canada.
- Costs significantly less than Viagra.
How to Spot Fake Sildenafil
Counterfeit Viagra is a growing concern, with many fake Sildenafil pills circulating online.
While lab testing is the only way to confirm whether a sildenafil pill is genuine, there are key visual and physical signs that can help you spot fakes.
Here’s what to watch out for:
Differences in Colour and Shape
Real Viagra is always blue and diamond-shaped. Fake sildenafil tablets may have unusual textures or colours. Fake pills may be too bright, too dull, or a different shade of blue. It may also have uneven colouring or unusual textures.
Strength of Pills
Fake Viagra can contain incorrect dosages or harmful ingredients. Genuine Viagra only comes in 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg doses. Fake versions often mislabel dosages or contain too much or too little Sildenafil.
Number of Pills
Pfizer Viagra is typically sold in packs of 4, 8, 16, or more (depending on prescription). Counterfeiters may sell odd numbers (ex., packs of 5 or 7) or bulk quantities at suspiciously low prices.
Tablet Shape
Authentic Viagra has a smooth, consistent diamond shape with rounded edges. Some counterfeits come in round or oval shapes, which is a red flag.
Incorrect or Missing Markings
Real Viagra pills have “Pfizer” on one side and “VGR” with the dosage on the other (ex, “VGR 50” for 50 mg tablets). Fake Viagra often has misspelled engravings or uneven printing.
Suspicious Packaging and Labels
Authentic Viagra comes in Pfizer-branded boxes and sealed blister packs from licensed pharmacies.
Fake versions may be sold in loose plastic bags, plain bottles, or boxes with blurry text, incorrect logos, or missing security seals
Unusual Texture or Smell
Real Viagra pills feel smooth and solid. Counterfeit sildenafil may have a chalky or overly glossy finish. If the pill has a strong chemical smell, it’s likely fake.
If you suspect your Sildenafil is fake, do not take it. Always buy Viagra from a licensed pharmacy or reputable telehealth provider.
How is Viagra (Sildenafil) Packaged?
What does Viagra / Sildenafil look like when packed? Here’s how to identify genuine Viagra (Sildenafil) and avoid counterfeits:
Authentic Viagra, produced by Pfizer, comes in specific packaging formats to ensure authenticity:
- Branded blue-and-white boxes with the Pfizer logo
- Dosage strength clearly displayed
Moreover, Viagra’s official packaging includes an expiry date and lot number. Inside, the pills are sealed in blister packs, typically in sets of 4, 8, 12, or more. The foil backing on real Viagra’s blister pack is printed with batch details.
Holograms and batch numbers help verify real Viagra, which acts as additional security features to prevent counterfeiting.
Counterfeit versions often lack these security features, such as holograms, batch numbers, and official blister pack details.
Note: Authentic Viagra does not come in injectable forms or pens. If you encounter claims of Viagra pens or vials for ED, it’s likely a counterfeit product.
Revatio, another brand that contains Sildenafil, is the one that comes in injectable forms, packaged in vials. However, this form is not intended for ED treatment. Revatio is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
Where Can I Get Genuine Viagra From?
To ensure you’re getting safe, effective, and authentic Viagra (sildenafil), always purchase from licensed and reputable sources and pharmacies.
Jack Health is a trusted Canadian telehealth provider offering genuine Viagra and sildenafil. With Jack Health, you get:
- Free online consultation with licensed health professionals
- Discreet and fast shipping across Canada
- Safe and regulated medications sourced from licensed pharmacies
Key Takeaways
- Real Viagra is always blue, diamond-shaped, and marked with “Pfizer” on one side and “VGR” with dosage on the other.
- Counterfeit Viagra can contain incorrect dosages, harmful ingredients, or no active sildenafil at all.
- Always buy genuine Viagra from a licensed source like Jack Health for safe, regulated medications in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all Viagra a blue oval pill?
No, genuine Viagra is a blue, diamond-shaped tablet with “Pfizer” on one side and “VGR” followed by the dosage on the other. If your Viagra pill is oval, it’s most likely fake.
Can you identify Viagra without markings?
No, Viagra comes with a “Pfizer” logo engraved on it and a “VGR” with the dosage behind the Pfizer logo. If your Viagra pill doesn’t come with markings, it’s likely unregulated and may be unsafe.
Are there risks to taking fake sildenafil?
Yes, consuming counterfeit sildenafil can lead to serious health risks due to unknown ingredients, incorrect dosages, or harmful substances. We suggest that you get your medications from trusted sources like Jack Health.
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