Key Takeaways
- Vardenafil typically starts working faster, around 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion, while sildenafil may take 30 to 60 minutes to become effective.
- Vardenafil’s effects generally last up to 6 hours, whereas Sildenafil remains effective for a slightly shorter period, usually 3-4 hours.
- Vardenafil is more potent than sildenafil and typically requires a lower dosage. This may reduce the risk of side effects in certain individuals.
- Vardenafil is less affected by food and high-fat meals, making it a more flexible option. In contrast, sildenafil is recommended to be taken on an empty stomach for faster results.
Vardenafil, which was formerly sold under the brand name Levitra, and sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, are two prescription-only FDA-approved treatment options for erectile dysfunction (ED). They both come in swallowable pill and chewable pill form. While they are both phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and boost blood flow to the penis, they differ in terms of how quickly they begin working, how long they last, how they’re taken, who should take them, and their side effects.
In this article, we’ll explore their differences so you can determine which medication may work best for your needs.
Related reading: Hims vs. Viagra- Which Is Better for Erectile Dysfunction?
Which Is More Effective, Sildenafil or Vardenafil?
Sildenafil and vardenafil are both considered first-choice, effective treatments for erectile dysfunction. While they both have similar levels of effectiveness, it’s important to note that vardenafil typically begins working a bit faster than sildenafil and is less impacted by meals.
The best way to decide which drug is right for you is to talk to your doctor. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each drug and choose the one that is most likely to work best for you.
Related reading: Best Chewable ED Pills- Where to Get Chewable Sildenafil Online
What Is the Difference Between Sildenafil and Vardenafil?
Sildenafil and vardenafil are both PDE5 inhibitors that share a common mechanism of action. However, they differ in terms of their onset of action, how long they last, recommended dosage, potential interactions with food and alcohol, possible side effects, and more.
Mechanism of Action
PDE5 is an enzyme that can be found in different parts of the body, including the penis, lungs, and blood vessels. Its job is to break down a molecule called cGMP, which helps relax certain muscles. When you take PDE5 inhibitors, like vardenafil and sildenafil, they stop PDE5 from breaking down cGMP in the penis. This relaxes the blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow in. This makes it easier to get and keep an erection.
There are other PDE enzymes, like PDE1 and PDE6, in the penis, but they do different things. PDE1 impacts sperm movement, and PDE6 impacts vision.
Vardenafil is better at targeting PDE5 and is less likely to affect other PDE enzymes, which may decrease the risk of certain side effects that may be more likely with sildenafil, such as vision problems.
But remember, all PDE5 inhibitors can still cause side effects, even if they’re more selective.
How to Use Each Medication
Both vardenafil and sildenafil can be taken as-needed, 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. However, sildenafil can be taken up to four hours before sexual activity. Vardenafil can be taken with or without food. Sildenafil is typically taken on an empty stomach, as foods, especially ones high in fat, can delay the onset of action.
Both medications can be found as pills and dissolvable ED chews, which may combine multiple ingredients, offering several options for individuals.
Vardenafil and sildenafil are typically only taken once every 24 hours. Be sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, as certain health conditions may require you to use these medications less frequently than typically allowed.
Dosage of Vardenafil vs. Sildenafil
The dosage of vardenafil and sildenafil depends on a number of factors, including the severity of symptoms, your age, and your overall health. In general, both medications are not recommended for use more than once every 24 hours.
The starting dose of vardenafil is typically 5mg. If this dose is not effective, it can be increased to 10mg or 20mg, which is typically considered the maximum recommended dose.
The starting dose of sildenafil is typically 25mg. If this dose is not effective, it can be increased to 50mg or 100mg, which is typically considered the maximum recommended dose.
The starting dose of vardenafil or sildenafil is typically best for mild to moderate symptoms, while higher doses may be prescribed for more severe symptoms. Those taking other medications or who have other health conditions may be prescribed lower doses to start.
Related reading: Hims Hard Mints Review- Are They the Best Dissolvable ED Treatment?
Onset of Action and Duration of Effect
Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, typically takes effect within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion. If taken after a meal, it may take a bit longer to begin working. The effects of sildenafil typically last for about 3 to 4 hours.
Vardenafil often works a bit faster, typically within 15 to 30 minutes, making it a better choice for those who want a faster onset of action. Vardenafil provides effects that can last for up to 6 hours.
Interaction With Food and Alcohol
Sildenafil can be taken with or without food, and a light meal is generally acceptable. However, it’s important to note that consuming a heavy, high-fat meal can delay the onset of action by about an hour. When it comes to alcohol, it’s best to limit your intake, as excessive alcohol consumption can potentially make it more difficult to get an erection.
Vardenafil is less influenced by food and can be taken with or without a meal, making it a more flexible option for certain individuals.
Drug Interaction
Sildenafil can interact with certain medications, such as nitrates used to treat chest pain or heart conditions, as well as herbal products like St. John’s wort.
Vardenafil can also interact with nitrates, potentially causing a significant drop in blood pressure when combined. Some alpha-blockers used to manage high blood pressure and prostate conditions can also interact with vardenafil.
Be sure to let your healthcare provider know about any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you are taking prior to beginning a new treatment regimen. In addition, let your healthcare provider know about any health conditions you have.
Cost
Vardenafil costs about $10 to $20 per dose, while sildenafil costs around $2 to $10 per dose.
The cost of vardenafil and sildenafil can vary depending on a number of factors, including the dosage, the brand name, and the pharmacy where you purchase it.
In general, vardenafil is more expensive than sildenafil. However, both drugs are available as generic medications, which are significantly less expensive than the brand-name versions.
Vardenafil vs. Sildenafil Side Effects
Vardenafil and sildenafil are generally safe and well-tolerated, however, they can cause side effects in some individuals.
Side effects of vardenafil may include:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Stomachache
- Nasal congestion
- Heartburn
Side effects of sildenafil may include:
- Heartburn
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Nosebleeds
- Flushing
- Muscle pain
- Light sensitivity
- Vision changes
- Nasal congestion
You should seek emergency medical care if you experience:
- Priapism, or a prolonged and painful erection that lasts for more than 4 hours
- Sudden vision changes
- Sudden hearing loss
- Dizziness or fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
The Verdict: Which Is Better Vardenafil or Sildenafil?
Both medications offer effective solutions for the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. These PDE5 inhibitors work by enhancing blood flow to the penis, making it easier to get and maintain an erection.
Vardenafil has a faster onset of action, lasts longer, and is associated with fewer side effects. However, it tends to be more expensive than sildenafil.
Sildenafil takes a bit longer to begin working, is more impacted by heavy meals, and doesn’t last as long as vardenafil, but is a more cost effective option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the success rate of vardenafil?
The success rate of vardenafil is up to 85% in improving erections in indiviudals with erectile dysfunction.
What is the best and strongest ED pill?
There is no single “best and strongest” ED pill, as the best medication for each individual will depend on their unique needs and preferences. However, vardenafil and sildenafil are two of the most effective and commonly prescribed ED medications, that are FDA-approved to treat this condition.
Does vardenafil make you harder?
Yes, vardenafil can make you harder. It is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, which works by increasing blood flow to the penis, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection.
How long does vardenafil 20mg last?
Vardenafil 20mg typically lasts for about 4-6 hours.
Can I take sildenafil and vardenafil?
It is not recommended to take sildenafil and vardenafil together, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Related reading: Hello Cake Review- Are Their Dissolvable ED Meds Legit?
Does vardenafil have less side effects?
Vardenafil may have fewer side effects than sildenafil. However, both medications are generally safe and well-tolerated.
What is the safest erectile dysfunction drug?
Vardenafil and sildenafil are both considered to be safe and generally well-tolerated erectile dysfunction drugs.
Related reading: Keeps ED Review – Do Their Personalized Treatments Work for Erectile Dysfunction?
Curious where to start?
We’ve personally tested dozens of ED treatments. See which work best for us, as well as which our medical advisory team recommends.
Methodology
We conduct extensive research to evaluate the pricing, effectiveness, accessibility, overall quality, and user experience of every telehealth service we review. This also includes examining and comparing each provider to comparable telemedicine alternatives. We also evaluate usability, treatments, prescription delivery time, and more to determine the best value for those seeking fast and reliable telehealth services.
| Review Process | Key Metrics | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Sign up online | – ease to complete intake form – affordability – upfront commitment or subscription required? – money back guarantee or refund policy? | 0.5 |
| Vitual consult with provider / determine eligibility | – ease to get appointment to determine eligibility – need to leave house for labs or other in-person care? | 1 |
| Shipping + unboxing | – shipping cost – time from order to treatment delivery – discreet packaging to maintain privacy | 0.5 |
| Test + journal for 1-3 months | – ease of application – transition into habitual use – taste / smell / feel / pain | 1.5 |
| Results after 3 months of use | – efficacy / results – lack of side effects – ease of refill / reordering – quality of ongoing clinical support – responsive customer support – willingness to recommend to a friend | 1.5 |
Related Reading
Ro Sparks 2-in-1 ED Treatment Review – Do Sublingual ED Meds Work Better?
Roman Sparks 2-in-1 ED Treatment Overview Cost: $12 per dose Ingredients: Sildenafil and tadalafil Dosage: 55mg sildenafil and 22mg tadalafil Works in: About 15 minutes Effects last for: 36 hours Potential side effects: Diarrhea, headache, nausea, nasal stuffiness, and more FDA information: FDA-approved active ingredients,
Between Us Clinic Performance Anxiety Program Review – Does It Work for ED?
Between Us Clinic Performance Anxiety Program Overview Price: 1 week free trial and a one-time payment of $37 What’s included: 8 weeks of daily audio-based mindfulness sessions Session length: 10-20 minutes per session Time it takes to see results: About 8 weeks What it helps
Best Chewable ED Pills – Where to Get Chewable Sildenafil Online
Chewable erectile dysfunction (ED) pills are a convenient way to improve sexual function, especially if you have trouble swallowing pills. This type of ED drug typically contains the same FDA-approved active ingredients found in traditional ED meds, like sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil. Many chewable ED
Numan ED Review: Effectiveness, Safety, and Cost of Their ED Treatment
Numan is a UK telemedicine platform dedicated to a range of healthcare needs, including erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment. The platform offers research-backed ED treatments including sildenafil, or the generic version of Viagra, Viagra Connect, which is the UK’s first over-the-counter (OTC) Viagra formulation, as well
Rugiet Ready Review – Are These Dissolvable ED Chews Legit?
Rugiet Ready combines FDA-approved active ingredients found in other erectile dysfunction (ED) medications, along with a dopamine promoter, into a custom-formulated, easy-to-take dissolvable treatment that begins working within about 15 minutes. According to the company, this means Rugiet Ready may work up to five times
Hello Cake Review: Are Their Dissolvable ED Meds Legit?
Hello Cake ED Meds easily dissolve in the mouth and combine the same FDA-approved active ingredients found in Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil). These medications inhibit an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which breaks down a chemical called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP allows
