Vardenafil vs Sildenafil: Choosing the Right ED Treatment

If you’re on the quest to find Erectile Dysfunction (ED) medications, you have likely stumbled upon the names Vardenafil and Sildenafil. These two salts, often found in popular medications like Levitra and Viagra, respectively, are champions in the fight against impotence. But how do they stack up against each other? If you have a similar question and are confused about which one will work for you, you are at the right place. 

In this article, we will find which is better, Vardenafil vs Sildenafil, by comparing these two drugs in detail ranging from their potency to pricing. Ultimately, the goal is to find the right solution to help you regain your confidence and enjoy a satisfying sex life.

A quick overview

Here is a table giving a brief overview of Sildenafil vs Vardenafil:

Wait, there’s more! Continue reading to find out more about such differences and similarities between Vardenafil and Sildenafil.

Onset of action

Both Vardenafil and Sildenafil belong to the family of Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, renowned for their ability to enhance blood flow to the penile region. However, they have slight differences in their onset of action.

Vardenafil, the active ingredient in Levitra, typically springs into action within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion. On the other hand, Sildenafil, found in Viagra, often revs up a bit faster, showing effects within 12 to 30 minutes. So, if you’re looking for a swift response, Sildenafil might hold a slight edge.

Duration of action

Now, let’s talk longevity. According to a study published in the NCBI, Vardenafil effects tend to last for upto 8 hours, providing a generous window for intimacy. In contrast, Sildenafil effects can persist for up to 4 hours. So, while Sildenafil may offer a quicker onset, Vardenafil may have the upper hand in terms of lasting power.

Note: It is vital to note that these durations may differ and can vary from person to person.

Cost

Here’s the eternal question of affordability. When it comes to cost, generic versions of both Vardenafil and Sildenafil are available, offering more budget-friendly alternatives to their brand-name counterparts. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of Vardenafil vs Sildenafil prices without insurance:

However, prices may vary depending on factors such as place, dosage strength, and quantity. You can find the best deals at WowRx – a trusted online pharmacy.

Prescription requirement

In most regions, both Vardenafil and Sildenafil are prescription medications. This means you’ll need a doctor’s approval before you can get your hands on them. However, in some countries, certain formulations of Sildenafil are available over the counter. Regardless, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure these medications are suitable for you.

Potency

In terms of potency, both Vardenafil and Sildenafil are highly effective in treating Erectile Dysfunction. However, Vardenafil is considered to be slightly more potent than Sildenafil. This means that a lower dose of Vardenafil may produce the same desired effect as a higher dose of Sildenafil.

Side effects

Many of the side effects associated with both Sildenafil and Vardenafil overlap, like dizziness, headaches, and unusual tiredness. Common side effects of Sildenafil include muscle aches, bloody nose, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. On the other hand, common side effects of Vardenafil include sensations of redness in the face, neck, and arms, along with symptoms like sneezing and stuffy nose.

However, as mentioned previously, Vardenafil is more potent than Sildenafil, and it can result in penile erection with a lower dose, potentially resulting in lesser side effects too. In addition, Vardenafil has an advantage over Sildenafil because it usually doesn’t cause changes in color vision, which is a rare side effect of Sildenafil. So, if you want to choose Vardenafil vs Sildenafil on the basis of side effects (though they may or may not occur), Vardenafil can be a better choice.

It is important to note that these are not a complete list of side effects. Contact medical experts immediately if you observe any unusual symptoms after using these medications.

Dosage flexibility

When it comes to dosage options, both Vardenafil and Sildenafil offer a range of strengths to accommodate different needs. Sildenafil is available in three formulations: an oral tablet, a liquid oral suspension, and an injectable solution administered exclusively by a medical professional. However, Vardenafil is only available as an oral tablet, as of now.

Sildenafil is available in a wider range of doses, allowing more flexibility in finding the right Sildenafil dosage. It includes the following:

• 10 mg
• 20 mg
• 25 mg
• 50 mg
• 100 mg 

This medication is typically given as a single dose of 50 mg once a day, one hour before sexual activity.

Vardenafil comes in doses ranging from 2.5 mg to 20 mg, providing options if you are looking for lower doses. It includes the following:

• 2.5 mg
• 5 mg
• 10 mg
• 20 mg

It is usually given as a single dose of 10 mg once per day, one hour before sexual activity. 

In a nutshell, Sildenafil gives you more dosage options, and Vardenafil provides you with efficacy at a lower dose.

Interactions

Any medication’s interactions are reported in three ways:

• Drug interaction
• Disease interaction
• Food interaction

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of Vardenafil vs Sildenafil number of interactions:

As you can see, Sildenafil has fewer reported drug interactions in comparison with Vardenafil, making it a preferred choice if you take any particular medication.

Ratings & reviews

Both Vardenafil and Sildenafil have garnered praise for their effectiveness in combating Erectile Dysfunction. When comparing user ratings on Drugs.com, one of the largest medicine information websites, Sildenafil holds a slightly higher average rating of 8.2 out of 10, based on 505 reviews, compared to Vardenafil’s rating of 8.0 out of 10 from 173 reviews. 

In terms of reported effects, Sildenafil garnered a slightly higher percentage of positive reviews at 78%, with 12% reporting negative effects. Vardenafil, on the other hand, received positive feedback from 75% of reviewers, with 10% reporting negative effects. 

Remember, individual experiences can vary, so it’s essential to approach online testimonials with a discerning eye. Ultimately, the best gauge of a medication’s efficacy is how well it works for you.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between Vardenafil and Sildenafil for treating Erectile Dysfunction, both options offer effective solutions. If you prioritize a quicker onset of action, Sildenafil might be your go-to choice, whereas Vardenafil boasts a longer duration of action, providing a generous window for intimacy. 

While Sildenafil offers more dosage flexibility, Vardenafil is considered slightly more potent. It’s crucial to consider factors like side effects, cost, and potential interactions with other medications. Ultimately, consulting with a healthcare professional can help tailor the treatment to your specific needs, ensuring a safe and effective approach to regaining confidence and enjoying a satisfying sex life.

Frequently Asked Questions

• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• sciencedirect.com
• bumc.bu.edu
• mayoclinic.org