Виагра, Cialis, Левитра, and Stendra are all in a class of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors. When ED becomes a problem, many men turn to these oral ED medications. They often help address the issue.
They also boost a chemical in your body called nitric oxide. This action encourages the muscles in your penis to relax. Relaxed muscles allow blood to flow freely so that when you’re aroused, you can get an erection. It also helps you maintain the erection long enough to have sex.
Here are the basic features of each of these drugs:
Brand name | Виагра | Cialis | Левитра | Stendra |
What’s the generic name of this drug? | sildenafil | tadalafil | vardenafil | avanafil |
Is a generic version available? | Yes | yes | yes | no |
What form does it come in? | oral tablet | oral tablet | oral tablet | oral tablet |
What strengths does it come in? | 25 мг, 50 мг, 100 мг | 2.5 мг, 5 мг, 10 мг, 20 мг | 5 мг, 10 мг, 20 мг | 50 мг, 100 мг, 200 мг |
What’s the typical dosage? | 50 мг | 10 мг (when used as needed); 2.5 мг (when used daily) | 10 мг; 5 мг (for men 65 years old and up) | 100 мг |
When do I take it? | 30-60 minutes before sex | 30 minutes before sex | 60 minutes before sex | 15 minutes before sex (for 100 mg and 200 мг); 30 minutes before sex (for 50 мг) |
How long does it work? | 4 hours | up to 36 hours | 4-5 hours | 6 hours |
How do I store it? | Around room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) | At 25°C (77°F) | At 25°C (77°F) | Around room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) |
Cialis vs. Виагра
Unlike Viagra and the other PDE5 inhibitors, Cialis is also approved to treat enlarged prostate.
Both Viagra and Cialis can be taken 30 minutes before sexual activity. Однако, Cialis lasts much longer and is noteworthy for the amount of time it remains in your body. You may feel the effects of the drug up to 36 hours after you take it.
The fact that it comes in a low-dose (2.5 мг) version also means that Cialis can be taken every day. A daily dose will ensure that the drug’s always in your system.
If you take Cialis, there’s a chance of limb pain. This side effect isn’t associated with any other oral ED drugs.
Stendra vs. Виагра
Stendra is the newest drug on the market, and no generic version is available for sale yet. A hallmark of Stendra is its fast-acting nature. The 100-mg and 200-mg doses can be taken as shortly as 15 minutes before sexual activity.
As a second-generation medication, Stendra also seems to have milder side effects than Viagra and the other PDE5 inhibitors that came before it. Side effects commonly caused by Viagra — but not Stendra — include dizziness, vision changes, nausea, and muscle aches.
The only common side effect caused by Stendra but not Viagra is a sore throat.