Vardenafil vs. Sildenafil: How Do They Compare?

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When looking to improve sexual performance, many people compare vardenafil vs sildenafil. Both drugs belong to a group called PDE5 inhibitors, which help increase blood flow to the penis. This supports erections in men who experience erectile dysfunction, or ED. ED means having trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. These medicines have become popular choices for men seeking effective and reliable support.

Before deciding which one suits your needs, it’s helpful to understand how long does vardenafil last, what the typical Vardenafil dosage looks like, and how to Order Vardenafil from trusted sources. This article will explain the key differences between vardenafil and Sildenafil, how fast they work, how long their effects last, and which might better fit your lifestyle.

What Are Vardenafil and Sildenafil?

Both vardenafil and sildenafil are PDE5 inhibitors. PDE5 stands for phosphodiesterase type 5, an enzyme that limits blood flow to certain parts of the body. By blocking PDE5, these drugs help relax blood vessels and improve circulation, especially in the penis. This action supports men who have difficulty maintaining erections due to reduced blood flow.

Vardenafil is commonly sold under the brand name Levitra, while sildenafil is best known as Viagra. Both drugs were originally developed to treat erectile dysfunction. and have helped millions of men worldwide regain confidence.

How Do They Work?

Vardenafil and sildenafil work by blocking the PDE5 enzyme. When this enzyme is blocked, the muscles in the blood vessels of the penis relax. This allows more blood to flow in during arousal, helping produce and maintain an erection. It is important to note that these drugs do not cause sexual arousal on their own.

Because of this, these medications only work when you are already sexually stimulated. They are not aphrodisiacs and do not increase sexual desire. Their purpose is to help men who have trouble achieving or keeping an erection due to medical reasons.

vardenafil vs sildenafil

Onset Time and Duration

Vardenafil typically starts working within 25 to 60 minutes after ingestion. Sildenafil usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to start working. The exact time can vary depending on your metabolism and digestion. For example, taking these medications on an empty stomach can speed up their effect.

In terms of how long they last, sildenafil effects can continue for 4 to 6 hours. Vardenafil tends to last around 4 to 5 hours. This means you may have a longer window of opportunity with sildenafil, but individual results can vary. 

Vardenafil vs Sildenafil Dosage

The typical starting dose for sildenafil is 50mg. For vardenafil, the usual starting dose is 10mg. Depending on how well the medication works and how well you tolerate it, you can adjust your dosage. Some men find that a lower dose of vardenafil is effective, which may be useful for those sensitive to higher doses.

It’s important to review your intake with a professional and not on your own. Both drugs are taken orally, usually about one hour before planned sexual activity. The dosage and frequency depend on your individual health and response.

User Preference and Lifestyle Fit

Many men choose between vardenafil and sildenafil based on how fast they want the medication to work and how long they want the effect to last. Vardenafil is often preferred by men who want a quicker onset and a shorter effective window. This may help you time use to your lifestyle

Sildenafil is more widely recognized and has a longer history on the market. It is often available as a generic drug, making it more affordable and easier to find. Men who prefer a longer period during which they can engage in sexual activity often lean toward sildenafil.

sildenafil vs vardenafil

Food and Alcohol Interaction

Both vardenafil and sildenafil can be taken with food. However, high-fat or heavy meals may delay how quickly the drugs start working. For best results, taking them on an emptier stomach or with a light meal is advised. This helps the medication be absorbed faster.

Alcohol may also reduce the effectiveness of both drugs. Drinking large amounts of alcohol before or during sexual activity can decrease blood flow and make it harder to get an erection.

Accessibility and Cost

Sildenafil has been available longer and is widely produced in generic form. This often makes it less expensive and easier to find in pharmacies. Many men find sildenafil a cost-effective option.

Vardenafil is also available as a generic, but it may be a bit more costly or less commonly stocked in some regions. Both drugs require a prescription, so it’s important to obtain them through trusted sources. 

Maximizing Benefits

To get the best benefits from vardenafil or sildenafil, timing is crucial. Take the medication about an hour before sexual activity. Avoid heavy meals and limit alcohol to help the medicine work faster and better. Remember that initial sexual stimulation is necessary.

Safety Considerations

Both vardenafil and sildenafil have been studied extensively and used by millions of men worldwide. They are generally safe when used as prescribed. However, never combine them with nitrate medications or other PDE5 inhibitors, as this can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure.

Always disclose your full medical history to your healthcare provider so they can determine the safest choice and dosage for you. Using these drugs responsibly helps maintain your overall health.

Who Should Consider Each Option?

Vardenafil is a good choice for men who want a quicker start and may be sensitive to higher doses of sildenafil. Its shorter window of effectiveness can provide flexibility.

Sildenafil suits those who prefer a well-known medication with a longer window and widespread availability. It is often the first choice for men trying PDE5 inhibitors for the first time.

Tips for Use

Take either medication approximately one hour before sexual activity. This allows enough time for the drug to enter your bloodstream and start working.

Avoid heavy or fatty meals before taking the medication. Never combine these drugs with nitrates or other PDE5 inhibitors, and always follow your provider’s dosage instructions closely.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

If you are unsure which drug is right for you, talk to your healthcare provider. They can guide you toward the best choice based on your health and lifestyle.

If you’ve tried one medication but had inconsistent results, your provider may recommend adjusting the dose or switching to the other drug. 

FAQs

What is the main difference between vardenafil and sildenafil?

Vardenafil may work faster, while sildenafil is more widely available and lasts a little longer.

Which lasts longer, vardenafil or sildenafil?

Sildenafil can last up to 6 hours. Vardenafil usually lasts around 4 to 5 hours.

Can I switch from sildenafil to vardenafil?

Yes, but only under medical supervision. Dosages differ and a doctor can guide the change safely.

Is one stronger than the other?

Both work similarly. Some men respond better to one or the other based on their body.

Do they interact with food or alcohol?

Yes. High-fat meals and alcohol can slow their effects or reduce effectiveness.

What are typical starting doses?

Sildenafil usually starts at 50mg. Vardenafil starts at 10mg. This may vary per user.

Are there generic versions of both?

Yes. Both vardenafil and sildenafil are available in generic forms, making them easier to access.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between vardenafil and sildenafil depends on your needs and lifestyle, as both are effective PDE5 inhibitors, vardenafil acts faster with a shorter duration, while sildenafil lasts longer and is often more affordable.

Sources

Hartmut Porst et al. (2006). Review of time of onset and duration of clinical efficacy of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in treatment of erectile dysfunction. Urology.
https://www.goldjournal.net/article/S0090-4295(06)00643-1/abstract

King, T., & Avent, T. (2013). Phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors as a treatment for erectile dysfunction. Arab Journal of Urology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aju.2013.07.009 tandfonline.com

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2014). Viagra (sildenafil citrate) prescribing information. Retrieved from FDA’s Drugs@FDA database
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/20895s039s042lbl.pdf

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2003). Levitra (vardenafil HCl) labeling information. Retrieved from FDA’s Drugs@FDA database
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2003/21400_levitra_lbl.pdf

National Center for Biotechnology Information (2012). Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors in the management of erectile dysfunction. Journal Articles, PMC. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3776492/

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