What are Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra?
Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are all prescription medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. These medications fall under the class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. They all work by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, allowing blood to flow into the penis and causing an erection.
Viagra, also known as sildenafil, was the first medication to be approved by the FDA for the treatment of ED in 1998. Cialis, or tadalafil, was approved in 2003, and Levitra, or vardenafil, was approved in 2003. All three medications require a prescription and are taken orally.
How do they work?
While Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra all work by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, they do so in slightly different ways. Viagra and Levitra work by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, which breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a chemical that helps the blood vessels in the penis relax and open up. By blocking this enzyme, more cGMP is available, and the blood vessels can stay relaxed for longer, allowing for a longer-lasting erection.
Cialis, on the other hand, works by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme like Viagra and Levitra, but it also increases the levels of another chemical called nitric oxide, which helps to widen the blood vessels in the penis. This dual mechanism of action allows Cialis to have a longer duration of action than Viagra and Levitra, lasting up to 36 hours compared to Viagra's 4-6 hours and Levitra's 4-5 hours.
Differences in effectiveness and duration
While all three medications are effective at treating ED, they have different levels of efficacy and durations of action. According to a meta-analysis of 82 trials, Viagra was found to be effective in 84% of men with ED, while Cialis was effective in 81% of men and Levitra in 80% of men. However, the study also found that Cialis was more effective than Viagra and Levitra in men with severe ED.
As mentioned earlier, Cialis has a longer duration of action than Viagra and Levitra, lasting up to 36 hours compared to Viagra's 4-6 hours and Levitra's 4-5 hours. This longer duration of action can be beneficial for men who want to be spontaneous and not have to plan their sexual activity in advance.
Differences in side effects
While all three medications are generally safe and well-tolerated, they do have some differences in side effects. The most common side effects of Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are headache, facial flushing, and nasal congestion. However, Viagra and Levitra are more likely to cause visual disturbances such as changes in color vision or blurred vision, while Cialis is more likely to cause back pain and muscle aches.
Another important difference is that Viagra and Levitra should not be taken with high-fat meals, as this can decrease their effectiveness. Cialis, on the other hand, can be taken with or without food.
Dosage and administration
Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra all come in different dosages, and the appropriate dosage depends on several factors, including age, overall health, and response to the medication. The recommended starting dose for Viagra is 50 mg, while the starting dose for Cialis is 10 mg and for Levitra is 10 mg. However, your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your individual needs.
All three medications are taken orally, usually about an hour before sexual activity. It's important to note that these medications do not work without sexual stimulation.
Interactions with other medications
Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra can interact with other medications, including nitrates, used to treat chest pain or heart disease. Taking these medications together can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. They should also not be taken with alpha-blockers, used to treat high blood pressure or prostate enlargement, as this can also cause a drop in blood pressure.
It's important to inform your doctor about all medications you're taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements, to avoid any potential interactions.
Cost comparison
The cost of Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra can vary depending on several factors, including dosage, location, and insurance coverage. However, in general, Viagra is the cheapest option, with a generic version available. Cialis and Levitra are more expensive, with no generic versions currently available.
It's important to talk to your doctor and insurance provider to determine which medication is the most affordable option for you.
Which one should you choose?
The choice between Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra depends on several factors, including the severity of your ED, your overall health, and your lifestyle. If you have mild to moderate ED, all three medications may be effective for you, and you may choose based on other factors such as duration of action or side effect profile.
If you have severe ED, Cialis may be a better option, as it has been shown to be more effective in this population. If you have a busy lifestyle and want to be spontaneous with your sexual activity, Cialis may also be a better choice due to its longer duration of action.
Ultimately, the decision should be made in consultation with your doctor, who can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs.
