Viagra vs Other ED Medications

When Viagra received FDA approval as a treatment for erectile dysfunction in 1998, it was the first such drug on the market and quickly began raking in profits. Soon after, the market became a bit more competitive with the approval of two other erectile dysfunction medications in 2003: Cialis and Levitra. Comparing the three medications can help those suffering from ED a better understanding of which might be best for their situation.

How They Work: A Comparison

Viagra’s active ingredient, sildenafil, causes an increase in the amount of nitric oxide in the body. This helps reduce the effectiveness of PDE5 which destroys an enzyme known as cGMP. Without cGMP, the muscles in the penis cannot relax sufficiently to allow blood to flow into the organ thus stopping an erection from occurring.

The active ingredients in Cialis (tadalafil) and Levitra (vardenafil) work in much the same way. Like sildenafil, these active ingredients are categorized as PDE5 inhibitors.

Differences in Effectiveness Time

Although the mode of action among the three ED drugs is the same, there are some differences in how long the drugs need to be taken before sexual activity can begin. Users of Viagra, for example, need to take their pill one to four hours before preparing for sexual activity. Of course, the erection will not occur until arousal occurs.

Cialis, sometimes referred to as the Weekend Pill, can last for up to 36 hours after the dose has been taken. The medication can actually begin working in just 30 minutes which is about half the time as is minimally required for Viagra.

In terms of time, Levitra is comparable to Viagra. The benefits of the medication can last for up to four hours but the effects can begin working in just 30 to 60 minutes.

Dosage Amounts

Besides the amount of time the medications last, the dosage amounts available also different. Viagra, for example, is available in 20, 25, 50, and 100 milligram amounts. In comparison, the dosages for Cialis and Levitra are much lower: 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 milligrams. Normally, physicians will begin by prescribing the lowest dosage possible and then upgrading only as the need develops.

Price Similarities

Despite some of the differences between these three ED drugs, one similarity is the price. The name brand versions of this medication cost around $13 to $15 per pill. Viagra’s generic version costs about one-tenth of that price, contains the same active ingredient, and delivers the same effectiveness.

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