Treating erectile dysfunction (ED) with medication can provide hope and improve symptoms, giving you greater control over your health and intimate relationships. Among the various ED medications available, vardenafil (Levitra®) and tadalafil (Cialis®) are two leading choices. Discover how these medications work, their similarities and differences, and which one might be the best fit for you.
What is vardenafil (Levitra®)?
Vardenafil is a generic version of the drug Levitra® and belongs to the class of medications called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. It is prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction and works by increasing blood flow to the genitals.1
The average recommended dose is 10 mg, taken approximately one hour before sexual activity.2 The effects of vardenafil can last anywhere from five to seven hours.3 It is not recommended to take more than one dose of vardenafil within a 24-hour period.4
What is tadalafil (Cialis®)?
Tadalafil, a generic of Cialis®, belongs to the class of medication called PDE inhibitors and is prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction. It works by increasing blood flow to the genitals.5
There are two ways to take tadalafil – daily or as needed. A common daily dose is 2.5 mg to 5 mg once a day. The as-needed dosage is 10 mg to 20 mg, approximately 30 to 45 minutes before sexual activity.6 The effects of tadalafil can last up to 36 hours.7
What are the differences between vardenafil and tadalafil?
While both vardenafil and tadalafil are PDE inhibitors, they work differently. Vardenafil is used as needed approximately 60 minutes before sexual activity. It lasts from five to seven hours on average, with a maximum of 12 hours.
Tadalafil can be used either daily or as needed. When used as needed, it takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to work and lasts up to 36 hours on average, with a maximum of 72 hours. When used daily, tadalafil can help treat ED long term.8
How effective are vardenafil and tadalafil for erectile dysfunction?
Both vardenafil and tadalafil have been clinically proven to help men with ED improve sexual function.
In clinical studies, vardenafil has been shown to be effective for erectile dysfunction in 71% of men under the age of 45, 76% of men aged 45-64, and 85% of men over 65.9
In clinical studies of tadalafil, 82% of men with an average age of 59 reported improved erections after taking tadalafil for 12 weeks.10
How do the side effects compare for vardenafil and tadalafil?
Common side effects of vardenafil include:11
Headache.
Upset stomach.
Heartburn.
Flushing.
Stuffy or runny nose.
Flu-like symptoms.
Common side effects of tadalafil include:12
Headache.
Indigestion or heartburn.
Nausea.
Diarrhea.
Flushing.
Pain in the stomach, back, muscles, arms or legs.
Cough.
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Get Started for FreeWhat are common drug interactions for vardenafil and tadalafil?
PDE inhibitors like vardenafil and tadalafil can cause complications when mixed with heart medications, especially nitrates or antiarrhythmics.13 Before taking a PDE inhibitor, always talk to your provider about any medications or existing conditions.
Can vardenafil and tadalafil be taken together?
It is not recommended to take vardenafil and tadalafil together. Using these two PDE inhibitors at the same time could cause blood pressure to drop to dangerous levels. It also increases the risk of adverse side effects, including dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, headache, flushing, heart palpitations, and prolonged or painful erections.14
How do costs compare for vardenafil and tadalafil?
The average cost of vardenafil is $30 for two 20 mg tablets.15 RedBox Rx has vardenafil starting at $3 per tablet.
The average cost for tadalafil can be anywhere from $12 to $70 per tablet.16 RedBox Rx has tadalafil starting at $1 per tablet.
Are vardenafil and tadalafil available over the counter?
There are no PDE inhibitors like vardenafil or tadalafil available over the counter. Both medications require a prescription. Do not trust a source that promises nonprescription versions of vardenafil or tadalafil.17
Vardenafil (Levitra®) vs. Tadalafil (Cialis®) Comparison Chart
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