They don’t affect arousal or libido. All of these medications have been proven to be safe and effective for ED treatment. And some people even prefer to alternate between PDE5 inhibitors, depending on their lifestyle and relationship status. The main differences between these medications have to do with: How you take them (with or without food) How you take them (with or without food) How long they last (4 to 36 hours, though an erection should not last that long) How long they last (4 to 36 hours, though an erection should not last that long) How often you plan to use it How often you plan to use it Your healthcare professional might also recommend one over another depending on whether your ED is mild or more severe. Viagra was the first major medication the FDA approved for ED. It’s been available in the U.S. since 1998. It’s often prescribed for mild or moderate symptoms. How to take it: You should take Viagra on an empty stomach. If you really need to eat, then try waiting at least 1-2 hours after your meal before you take Viagra. It’s best to choose pills for men a light, low-fat meal since fatty meals and alcohol can slow down the time it takes Viagra to kick in by about 1 hour.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Structurally vardenafil (Levitra) is similar to sildenafil, while tadalafil (Cialis) is very different. Vardenafil (Levitra) is almost 10 times more biochemically potent than sildenafil, therefore a lower dose is needed to facilitate the penile erection, potentially resulting in less side effects. Selectivity is the ability of the drug to attach to the specific enzyme PDE 5 found in penile tissues. Vardenafil (Levitra) is more selective than sildenafil and tadalafil (Cialis) to PDE5, which again means a lower dose is needed with potentially less side effects. Tadalafil is very specific for PDE5 and is also very specific for the enzyme PDE11.
Compare ED treatments
Unfortunately, we don’t know much about PDE11, which is found in the heart, in the pituitary gland in the brain and in the testicles. Pharmacokinetics, half-life, is how long the medication stay s in the blood. This means that vardenafil (Levitra) should act longer than sildenafil (Viagra) but the clinical significance is not known. Tadalafil (Cialis) has the longest half-life and allows you to take the medication and not relate the sexual activity to the immediate use of the medication. The drawback is if you need nitrates after using tadalafil (Cialis), this medication lasts a long time in your blood stream and may place you at a higher risk. How fast it works: Viagra can start to take effect in as little as 30 minutes. But usually you’ll have to wait 45 to 60 minutes before it reaches maximum effect.
| Product | Dosage | Quantity + Bonus | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cialis Super Active | 20mg | 270 + 30 Pills | 661.49€ 629.99€ | |
| Kamagra Gold | 100 mg | 84 + 6 Pills | 264.44€ 251.85€ | |
| Tadalista Super Active | 20mg | 10 Pills | 55.64€ 52.99€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 10mg | 180 + 8 Pills | 236.88€ 225.60€ | |
| Kamagra Soft Tabs | 100mg | 84 + 4 Pills | 233.05€ 221.95€ | |
| Priligy Generic Dapoxetine | 60mg | 180 + 10 Pills | 494.76€ 471.20€ | |
| Viagra Oral Jelly | 100mg | 21 Sachets | 78.66€ 74.91€ | |
| Kamagra Effervescent Tablets | 100 mg | 28 Pills | 90.83€ 86.50€ | |
| Kamagra Gold | 100 mg | 120 + 6 Pills | 330.74€ 314.99€ | |
| Super Kamagra | 160 mg | 8 Pills | 69.23€ 65.93€ |
Then it keeps working for up to 8 hours. Typical dose: The typical starting Viagra dosage is one 50 mg tablet as needed. If you’re getting side effects, it can be cut down to 25 mg. If it’s not fully working, it can be increased to 100 mg.
What other information should I know?
This is a classic example of why people with ED need complete care: a psychological exam, history and physical exam, and diagnostic studies with long term follow-up care. Patients with ED should not just be prescribed sildenafil (Viagra) and then be lost to follow-up. The best treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) is the one that is best for you. Sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis) are the most commonly-prescribed medications for ED, and they have the longest track record. For occasional use, most people start with sildenafil.
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Some people prefer to alternate between medications. All ED meds are equally safe and effective. In most cases, your unique relationship needs, lifestyle, and insurance coverage will help you decide between them. There are ways to save on ED medications. Many are available ed treatment drugs as lower-cost generics or have other copay savings opportunities. Cialis is different from Viagra and other ED medications because it lasts much longer. You can also take it on a daily basis.
- ED tablets can enhance confidence and intimacy.
- Not all men respond equally; some require alternative therapies.
- Psychological side effects like anxiety may decrease after use.
- Age and severity of ED influence medication choice.
- Using tablets without a prescription can be unsafe.
- Some underlying health issues may contraindicate certain medications.
- Combining ED medication with fitness programs improves results.
- Always follow medical advice for long-term erectile health.
For this reason, Cialis may be a better fit than Viagra for regular use. It’s especially helpful for men who don’t respond as well to medications that are only taken “on demand.” Here’s an overview: How to take it: Food doesn’t affect Cialis.
Should I Get Surgery for Erectile Dysfunction?
Younger people might do well treated with tadalafil, (Cialis) while older people with other health issues might be better off using sildenafil (Viagra) or vardenafil (Levitra) but more data are needed. The side effects of vardenafil (Levitra) are potentially less than sildenafil (Viagra), but more data are needed. In a recent study on men with erectile dysfunction and diabetes, vardenafil (Levitra) improved their erectile dysfunction. Tadalafil (Cialis) is as effective as sildenafil (Viagra), and vardenafil (Levitra) with similar side effects except for back pain that occurs occasionally with tadalafil, probably because of the long half-life. Many people stop taking drugs because they are experiencing side effects, they no longer have a partner, or they are worried about safety.
Sildenafil may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Sexual activity is not a major contributor to the risk of a heart attack. Sexual activity, with or without sildenafil (Viagra) increases the chance of an MI during sexual activity by only 0.1%. If pills fail, there are vacuum devices, Muse, injections, bypass surgery and implants. The patient making a presentation has had penile bypass surgery. In addition he takes testosterone and sildenafil as needed. You can take it just when you need it or regularly — every day — if needed. How to take it: Food doesn’t affect Cialis. How fast it works: Cialis can start working in as quickly as 30 minutes, but you may have to wait up to 2 hours for it to reach the point when it’s most effective. The effects of Cialis can last for up to 36 hours, helping you with erections at any point in that time period. Typical dose: The typical starting dosage of Cialis for occasional use is one 10 mg tablet. It can be dropped to 5 mg or increased to 20 mg depending on how you respond.
- Tadalafil is often preferred for daily use due to longer duration.
- Sildenafil and vardenafil require more precise timing around meals.
- Side effects are usually mild but may include flushing and upset stomach.
- Do not share tablets with others to avoid misuse and health risks.
- Erectile dysfunction can be an early sign of heart disease.
- Consult a healthcare professional if tablets have no effect.
- Avoid grapefruit juice when taking certain ED medications.
- Some medications may lose effectiveness over time; check with a doctor.
The daily dose for regular use is 2.5 mg to 5 mg.
- Many men find tablets effective in restoring erectile function.
- Psychological support can enhance the success of medication.
- Beware of counterfeit medications which can be dangerous.
- Always obtain these tablets through licensed pharmacies.
- Combining ED tablets with other treatments can improve outcomes.
- ED tablets are not aphrodisiacs and do not increase libido.
- Regular checkups help monitor underlying health conditions.
- Overuse or misuse can lead to persistent side effects or dependence.
Generic vardenafil was previously sold under the brand names Levitra and Staxyn, but those brands have been discontinued. It has been shown to be as effective as Viagra and gets to work faster. How to take it: Vardenafil can be taken with or without food. But high-fat foods can delay vardenafil's absorption and lower its effectiveness. Ideally, try to wait 1 to 2 hours after eating before you take it. If that’s not possible, stick to a light, low-fat meal. You can take it as needed for occasional ED symptoms. How fast it works: Vardenafil can ed tablets start working in as quickly as 15 minutes, but peak effects can take up to 1 hour. Then, it will keep working for 4 to 5 hours. Typical dose: The typical starting dosage of vardenafil is one 10 mg tablet.
| Brand Name | Active Ingredient | Onset of Action | Duration of Effect | Typical Price ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viagra | Sildenafil | 30-60 minutes | 4-6 hours | 20-30 |
| Cialis | Tadalafil | 30 minutes | Up to 36 hours | 40-60 |
| Levitra | Vardenafil | 25-60 minutes | 4-5 hours | 25-45 |
| Staxyn | Vardenafil ODT | 15-20 minutes | 4-5 hours | 30-50 |
It can be cut back to 5 mg or increased to a maximum of 20 mg. Vardenafil is available as a traditional pill that you swallow and a rapidly dissolving pill (which gets to work faster). Stendra is a newer ED medication that works similarly to Viagra, Cialis, and vardenafil. How to take it: Avanafil comes in a pill, which food doesn’t affect. How fast it works: Avanafil works a little faster on average than the other ED medications. The usual starting dose of 100 mg works within 15 minutes.
- Common ingredients include sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, and avanafil.
- These tablets are used to treat erectile dysfunction in men.
- They typically work by increasing blood flow to the penis.
- Most tablets should be taken 30 to 60 minutes before intimacy.
- Effect duration varies from 4 to 36 hours depending on the medication.
- Side effects may include headaches, nasal congestion, and dizziness.
- Prescription is usually required; consult a doctor before use.
- Do not mix with nitrates or certain medications to avoid serious interactions.
With a lower dose, you’ll need to wait about 30 to 45 minutes. Typical dose: The recommended starting avanafil dosage is 100 mg, but doses can range from 50 mg to 200 mg, depending on your need and response. Viagra, Cialis, vardenafil, and Stendra are considered to work equally well.
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Take as prescribed or directed | Usually 30-60 minutes before activity |
| 2 | Avoid high-fat meals | May delay onset |
| 3 | Do not exceed maximum dosage | Risk of side effects |
| 4 | Be aware of drug interactions | e.g., nitrates |
| 5 | Consult doctor for long-term use | For ongoing issues |
There isn’t much data that directly compares them against each other. Most existing studies have only looked at how well each medication compares with a placebo (a pill with no medication in it). This means no one can definitively claim that one medication works better than the other for treating ED. But a systematic review and meta-analysis of a few hundred studies found that Viagra, Cialis, and vardenafil resulted in improved erections in 67% to 89% of people with ED. In comparison, about 30% had improvement with a placebo. All PDE5 inhibitors share common side effects. Most of these are mild and can include: With Viagra, there is a higher risk of vision changes than with Cialis. Among people who take Viagra, 3% get blue vision that lasts a few hours. On the other hand, Cialis has a slightly higher risk of muscle pain than Viagra and vardenafil. Overall, the immediate side effects of PDE5 inhibitors don’t last very long and aren’t much of a bother. But while the side effects of these medications are similar, the jury is still out on what the risks are of taking these medications long term over several decades. PDE5 inhibitors are generally safe for the heart.
Are ED pills like Viagra, Cialis, vardenafil, and Stendra safe for the heart?
GoodRx can help make your prescription more affordable. GoodRx for ED can also deliver generic Viagra or generic Cialis directly to your door. You’ve likely heard of Viagra, Cialis, vardenafil (previously sold as Staxyn and Levitra), and Stendra. These are commonly-prescribed treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED) — when a person has regular difficulties getting or maintaining an erection for satisfying sexual intercourse. With all of these choices, is there one best ED medication?
Watch out for side effects
Below, we’ll discuss some key differences between ED medications to help you navigate your treatment options. There’s no single best ED medication. But there are some differences between them that may make one treatment a better fit for you than another. Sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (formerly sold under the brand names Levitra and Staxyn), and avanafil (Stendra) belong to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. PDE5 inhibitors increase the amount of blood that fills the penis, helping an erection last long enough for satisfying sex. But there are two potentially serious side effects to know about: All PDE5 inhibitors can lower your blood pressure. This won’t necessarily affect you, but it may be a problem if you also take a blood pressure medication. A sudden drop in blood pressure can make you feel dizzy, fall, black out, or even cause more serious cardiac issues.
| Medication | Success Rate (%) | Average Onset (minutes) | Duration (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sildenafil | 70 | 30-60 | 4-6 |
| Tadalafil | 75 | 30 | Up to 36 |
| Vardenafil | 68 | 25-60 | 4-5 |
| Avanafil | 80 | 15-30 | 6-12 |