When it comes to erectile dysfunction, a condition where a man can’t get or keep an erection strong enough for sex. Also known as impotence, it affects more than half of men over 40 at some point. The good news? You don’t have to live with it. Several proven medications exist, but not all are the same. Choosing the right one isn’t about which is strongest—it’s about which fits your life, body, and goals.
Most men start with one of three drugs: sildenafil, the original ED pill, sold as Viagra, tadalafil, the long-acting option, sold as Cialis, or vardenafil, a fast-acting alternative, sold as Levitra. Sildenafil kicks in about 30 to 60 minutes after taking it and lasts 4 to 5 hours. Tadalafil? It can start working in 30 minutes but sticks around for up to 36 hours—some call it the "weekend pill." Vardenafil works fast, like sildenafil, but may be more effective for men who don’t respond well to the others. Each has different side effects: headaches, flushing, upset stomach are common across the board, but back pain and muscle aches are more likely with tadalafil. None work without sexual stimulation, and none are magic pills—they’re tools.
What you eat, how you take it, and what else you’re on all matter. Sildenafil and vardenafil work better on an empty stomach. A big, fatty meal can delay them by hours. Tadalafil isn’t as picky. If you’re on nitrates for heart issues, none of these are safe for you. Alcohol can make side effects worse. Blood pressure meds? You might need to adjust your dose. It’s not just about picking the cheapest option—it’s about matching the drug to your daily rhythm. Do you want spontaneity? Tadalafil gives you a longer window. Do you prefer to take it right before? Sildenafil or vardenafil might be better. Cost varies, too. Generic versions of all three are widely available and often cost less than $2 per pill.
There’s no single best ED medication. What works for your friend might not work for you. That’s why real comparisons matter—not marketing claims, but real-world differences in timing, side effects, and how they fit into your routine. Below, you’ll find detailed, no-fluff comparisons of these drugs, how they stack up against each other, and what real users report. You’ll also see how they relate to other treatments, from lifestyle changes to alternative pills. No guesswork. Just clear, practical info to help you decide what’s right for your body.
Compare bottled Levitra (vardenafil) with Cialis, Viagra, Stendra, generics and supplements. Learn fast onset, duration, side effects, pricing and when each option fits best.
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