Medically reviewed by Dr. Sam Ward
Written by Anne-Sophie Laignel
Last updated 11/5/2024 - 6 min read
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a medical problem that affects millions of men around the world. Fortunately, several medications can help to address this issue, including Viagra® (sildenafil) and Levitra® (vardenafil). Although they share a common goal, these two medications have significant differences that can influence the choice of treatment. This article will compare Viagra® and Levitra® in detail, helping you to choose the most suitable treatment for your needs and explaining how to obtain a prescription online via Kano.care. Additionally, we will highlight the potential dangers of misusing these medications.
Viagra®, introduced by Pfizer in 1998, is undoubtedly the most famous medication for treating erectile dysfunction. It contains sildenafil, a type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDE5), which works by increasing blood flow to the penis to facilitate an erection during sexual stimulation.
Viagra® starts to work about 30 to 60 minutes after taking it, and its effect usually lasts between 4 to 6 hours. It is effective with sexual stimulation and helps men maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. However, it is not a permanent cure, and the medication must be taken each time before sexual activity.
Levitra®, launched by Bayer in 2003, also works as a PDE5 inhibitor but contains vardenafil. This molecule shares similarities with sildenafil but has certain distinctive features that may be more suitable for specific patient profiles.
Like Viagra®, Levitra® starts to work about 30 to 60 minutes after taking it. However, it tends to offer a slightly longer duration of action, up to 8 hours. Some studies suggest that vardenafil may be better tolerated by men with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, making it an interesting option for this patient category.
Both medications start to work approximately 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion. However, the duration of Levitra®'s effect might be slightly longer than that of Viagra®. This means that you could have a wider window of opportunity with Levitra®, offering you more flexibility in your sexual encounters.
The side effects of both medications are similar and may include headaches, hot flashes, nasal congestion, and sometimes temporary visual disturbances, such as slightly blue-tinted vision. However, some men find that the side effects of Levitra® are less pronounced. For example, it is less likely to affect vision than Viagra®, which can be a deciding factor for some patients.
For men with diabetes or heart diseases, Levitra® is sometimes considered a better option due to its slightly higher tolerance in these cases. On the other hand, Viagra® has been used for over two decades, and its effectiveness has been widely proven among the majority of users.
Viagra® and Levitra® are both taken as needed, meaning you take them before each sexual activity. Neither option requires daily intake, unlike some other medications such as Cialis®.
Viagra® may be less effective if you eat a heavy or high-fat meal before taking it. This can delay the drug's absorption and reduce its effectiveness. Levitra®, on the other hand, seems to be less affected by food intake, making it a more flexible option for men who do not want to adjust their diet before having sexual intercourse.
The choice between Viagra® and Levitra® depends on several personal factors, including your specific needs, preferences, and overall health.
Although Viagra® and Levitra® are both effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, their misuse can pose serious health risks.
Taking more than the recommended dose of Viagra® or Levitra® will not give you better results, but may lead to serious complications, such as a dangerous drop in blood pressure, prolonged and painful erections (priapism), and heart disorders.
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The use of medications, including those for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, is strictly regulated by current legislation. It is imperative to consult a doctor before any use in order to receive an appropriate diagnosis and a prescription suited to your situation. Self-medication or use without medical advice can lead to serious adverse effects. We strongly recommend that you follow the advice of your healthcare professional and adhere to the prescribed doses.