The main difference is that Horny Goat Weed is a natural alternative to prescription drugs like Viagra, appealing to those who prefer natural therapies over medications. Viagra, approved by the FDA, is a well-researched and widely accepted treatment for erectile dysfunction, available by prescription.
Benefits for ED
Icariin, the active ingredient in Horny Goat Weed, has been suggested to increase NO synthesis in the penis, inhibit PDE5, positively affect nitrergic nerves, enhance smooth muscle proliferation, and mimic endogenous androgens. Like with other herbal supplements, there’s limited evidence of Horny Goat Weed’s health benefits.
Viagra treats ED by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal. Viagra benefits about 70% of men, with better responses in mild ED cases than severe ones. Higher doses produce stronger effects but also more side effects.
Side Effects
Horny Goat Weed may cause:
- a rapid, irregular heartbeat
- sweating or feeling hot
- an increase in energy
- mood changes
- fainting
- low blood pressure
- an increased risk of bleeding
- prolonged blood clotting
- severe breathing problems
- spasms
- dizziness
- vomiting
- dry mouth
- thirst
- nose bleed
Patients with hormone-sensitive cancers or heart disease should avoid Horny Goat Weed.
Viagra’s side effect profile includes:
- headache
- nausea
- hot flushes
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- dizziness
- temporary vision issues
- chest pain
- myalgia
- nosebleed
- dry eyes
- fainting
- tinnitus
- low blood pressure
- sudden hearing loss
Viagra may interact with prescriptions, such as blood pressure medications and antidepressants.
How to Use
Horny Goat Weed is available as a capsule, tablet, powder, or tea. Horny Goat Weed can also be found in combination with other supplements. There is insufficient reliable information regarding an appropriate dose of Horny Goat Weed. Before using, follow the directions on the product label and consult with a healthcare professional.
Viagra is taken orally in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg doses. It is taken 1 hour before intercourse, with a maximum frequency of once daily. Sexual stimulation is required for effectiveness. Onset occurs within 14 minutes for 35% of patients. A high-fat meal delays absorption, but alcohol does not impact regular doses.
Pricing
In general, Horny Goat Weed is less expensive than Viagra, but the prices of both can vary greatly. Horny Goat Weed prices vary depending on the brand, added ingredients, and dose. For instance, a 750 mg oral tablet is around $12.52 for a supply of 90 tablets.
The cost for Viagra 50 mg oral tablet is around $2,771 for a supply of 30 tablets. The cost for sildenafil 100 mg oral tablet is around $10 for a supply of 2 tablets.
