Viagra, Cialis, Levitra and Spedra

Erectile dysfunction is no longer a taboo subject and men now have access to a range of medical solutions.

The number of solutions available for erectile dysfunction continues to expand thanks to the range of treatments on offer. However, this can make it difficult to make the right choice when buying an erectile dysfunction drug for the first time.

Although pharmaceutical laboratories have developed numerous forms of impotence medication, pills remain the most popular choice.

All four drugs work the same way, as their active components Sildenafil, Tadalafil and Vardenafil belong to the same group of chemicals.

People often ask their doctor which is the best treatment to choose. Unfortunately, however, there is no simple answer. A lot of men find some pills work better than others.

They work by increasing blood flow to the penis, which is necessary for the men to gain an erection when sexually stimulated.

However, they all have different properties which make them more or less suitable depending on the individual and their personal history. So what are the differences between the three treatments?

How do those erectile dysfunction treatments work?

Viagra, Cialis and Levitra all belong to a class of drugs called “phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors” (or “PDE-5 inhibitors”). They work by blocking the PDE-5 enzyme in the body, which is usually secreted straight after sex to prevent the penis from a remaining firm. When using Viagra, Cialis or Levitra, the muscles remain relaxed and capable of soaking up the blood to cause a firmer, longer erection, which allows the man to have sexual intercourse satisfactorily.

Characteristics

The three prescription treatments are all available in different strengths.

However, there are subtle differences in how long they last and how quickly they work.

Viagra

Viagra is the best known of all the treatments for erectile dysfunction and was created about 15 years ago. It is now famous worldwide. Until 2013, its developers, Pfizer, were the only company to sell the drug using the active molecule Sildenafil. Other companies have been allowed to sell generic Viagra since Pfizer’s patent expired. Viagra only comes in the form of the classic tablet. It takes effect between 30 and 60 minutes after taking the pill and should last for a maximum of 4 hours. Other erectile dysfunction drugs act faster and are effective for 4 to 36 hours (such as Cialis).

Cialis

Cialis is available as a pill to be taken as and when you need it, with or without food. It should be taken 30 to 60 minutes before you have sex. It is also available as a 24-hour pill, to be taken once a day, with or without food. The main advantage of Cialis over its competitors is that it comes in either a 10mg or 20mg dosage and can last up to 36 hours. This is why it has been dubbed the weekend pill. Its effectiveness is in no way influenced by what you eat or whether or not you have an empty stomach. 

Cialis Daily is taken once a day, at the same time every day. The disadvantage of this treatment may be its daily dosage. However, the advantage is that its effectiveness is continuous, 24/7. This does not mean that you will have a constant erection, as the medication only takes effect when you are sexually stimulated. Cialis thus allows you a degree of spontaneity so that you can have sex at any time.

Levitra

Levitra works a little longer than Viagra. Both starting working in 30 minutes, on average. The effects of Levitra last for about 5 hours, whilst Viagra lasts for approximately 4 hours. However, it is worth taking Levitra and Viagra on an empty stomach, a maximum of once a day, 30 to 60 minutes before sexual intercourse. 

Eating a big meal before taking these two drugs can alter their effectiveness. The main advantage of Levitra compared to its competitors is that the drug is available in orodispersible form. This type of tablet quietly dissolves on the tongue without needing any water. This solution will suit men who want to retain some discretion and do not want to interrupt their flow. The most common side effects are headaches, indigestion, stuffy or a runny nose, dizziness and rashes.

Spedra

This drug does not feature frequently in the media as it is not very well known. Spedra arrived on the market in 2014 and is a perfect alternative to other treatments. Its main strength is how long it takes to work. Whilst you have to wait around half an hour for Viagra, Levitra or Cialis to work, Spedra is effective within 15 minutes. If you’re not the most organised person then Spedra will suit you.

Side effects

Side effects from taking these treatments are uncommon, but you shouldn’t ignore them.

These side effects include:

These treatments are not aphrodisiacs; you need to be sexually stimulated to get an erection

Results

These four drugs generally have great results. However, it sometimes takes some patience to wait and see how effective they will be, as they do not always work the first try.

You should talk to your doctor if your medication does not work or causes any side effects. Your doctor can recommend a different pill or change the prescribed dosage. If you accidentally take an overdose, take any other medications or if you know any other information concerning your health, you should tell your doctor.

Medical review on January 7, 2021 by Dr. Davis Taylor