Levitra vs Viagra: A Comparative Analysis of Two ED Pills

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Written By Julie Ingram
Levitra vs Viagra

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Numerous treatments are available for ED, including prescription medications like Levitra and Viagra.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common condition affecting millions worldwide. 

The inability to achieve or maintain an erection can cause significant stress. It can have a detrimental impact on relationships and self-esteem. 

Levitra and Viagra are two of the most popular medications to treat Erectile Dysfunction. 

Both drugs work by increasing blood flow to the penis, thus, inducing an erection.

However, there are some notable differences between Viagra and Levitra. 

In this article on Levitra vs Viagra, we will compare these two to help you determine which medication is best. 

Levitra vs Viagra: Composition

Levitra contains the active ingredient Vardenafil. 

The FDA gave its approval to Vardenafil in 2003 to treat ED.

Bayer Corporation produced and marketed Vardenafil under the brand name Levitra.

On the other hand, Viagra contains the active ingredient Sildenafil Citrate. 

Initially, Sildenafil was formulated to treat Hypertension and Angina Pectoris.

However, during clinical testing, it was found to have beneficial effects on improving erections. 

Thus, Sildenafil became the first ingredient to get FDA approval in 1998 for treating ED.

Pfizer marketed Sildenafil under the brand name Viagra.

Quick overview: Viagra vs Levitra

Orange Pills on the left by D4Fish/ Getty Images. Blue pills on right by Daniel Megias/ Getty Images

Levitra and Viagra both belong to the class of Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. 

Hence, the working of Viagra and Levitra is similar but has some relative differences. 

FeatureViagraLevitra
Active IngredientSildenafilVardenafil
Onset Time30 minutes to 1 hour25 minutes to 60 minutes
Duration of Effect4 hours4-6 hours
Dosage FormTabletTablet
Dosage25mg, 50mg, 100mg5mg, 10mg, 20mg
Food InteractionsCan be taken with or without food.
A high-fat meal can reduce its effectiveness. 
Can be taken with or without food.
A high-fat meal can reduce its effectiveness. 
Side EffectsHeadache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, vision changesHeadache, flushing, stuffy or runny nose, indigestion
Generics available YesYes

The above table is for general reference only. Consult a healthcare professional for information regarding the use of these medications.

Mechanism of Action: Levitra vs Viagra

As mentioned, Levitra contains Vardenafil, and Viagra contains Sildenafil as their active ingredient. 

Even though the main ingredients of both medicines are different, how they work is the same.

Both Vardenafil and Sildenafil are PDE5 inhibitors.

They work by blocking the Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzymes. 

These enzymes are responsible for breaking down cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) levels.

cGMP is a chemical that widens the blood vessels to enhance the blood flow to the penis.

By blocking the action of PDE5 enzymes, Sildenafil and Vardenafil allow cGMP to accumulate.

Accumulation of cGMP dilates the penile blood vessels.

This dilation of blood vessels boosts blood flow to the penis.

Thus, helping to get or maintain a firm erection.

Which works faster: Levitra or Viagra

In Levitra vs Viagra comparison, it is tough to say which one starts working quickly. 

They both take nearly the same time to become effective.

Levitra begins to work within 25-60 minutes of consumption. 

In contrast, Viagra starts working within 30 minutes after administration.

It is important to note that everyone’s body reacts differently to medications. 

Suppose you eat a high-fat meal before taking Viagra or Levitra. In that case, it will make it take longer for the medicines to work.

Levitra vs Viagra: Whose effects last longe

A happy couple laughing together in bed
Picture by Trendsetter Images

Effects of Levitra and Viagra last for almost the same time.

The Levitra lasts for 4 to 6 hours, according to the Boston University School of Medicine

On the other hand, Viagra can last for up to 4 hours.

This means that Levitra is a slightly better option for individuals who need longer-lasting effects. 

Levitra and Viagra are meant to help with the symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction for a few hours.

If you want an ED pill whose effects last longer, Tadalafil is probably your best bet.

Tadalafil remains active in the body for 36 hours after it is taken. Due to this fact, it is also known as the “Weekend Pill.”

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Levitra vs Viagra dosage

The doses of Levitra (Vardenafil) are 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg.

Your doctor can suggest the maximum dose you can take in a day. 

It is taken orally for about 25 to 60 minutes before getting sexual.

On the other hand, Viagra also comes in three different doses: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg.

Viagra (Sildenafil) is usually taken at a starting dose of 50mg.

Consult your doctor to know the maximum amount of Sildenafil you can take in a day.

It is taken orally 30 minutes before getting sexual.

It’s important to remember that the right amount of either medicine for each person may differ.

Your doctor may change your doses from time to time.

Always talk to a doctor to determine the best dose for you.

Levitra vs Viagra side effects

Levitra and Viagra are both prescription-based medications and safe for use. 

However, some patients have reported side effects that require minimal to no medical attention. 

Due to the same chemical properties, the side effects of these medications are similar.

Common Levitra and Viagra side effects include

  • Headache
  • Flushing 
  • Indigestion

However, there is evidence to suggest that Levitra has a lower risk of side effects than Sildenafil when it comes to vision changes.

This is because Vardenafil, the active component of Levitra, does not inhibit Phosphodiesterase-6 to alter color perception. 

In addition, Viagra causes muscle soreness and rashes. Levitra is not associated with these symptoms.

Warning
Don’t take Viagra or Levitra if you are taking medicines containing Nitrates.
ED pills interact negatively with Nitrates and cause a sharp drop in blood pressure.

Is Levitra stronger than Viagra

When it comes to inhibiting PDE5 enzymes, Vardenafil (Levitra) is considered more potent and selective than Sildenafil (Viagra).

When a drug is more potent and selective, it means that you need to take less dose of it to be effective.

For the above reason, the maximum Levitra dose is 20mg. On the other hand, the maximum Viagra dose is 100mg.

But stating that Levitra (Vardenafil) is stronger than Viagra (Sildenafil) is not valid.

When it is said that one medicine is “stronger” than another, it means that it works better on the condition.

But the study shows that Levitra (Vardenafil) is just as good at treating ED as Viagra (Sildenafil).

Both medications can help similarly improve erectile function.

Thus, Levitra is not stronger than Viagra. It is just more potent and selective than Viagra. 

Note
Potency in this context refers to the concentration of the medication required to produce a therapeutic effect. 
Selectivity refers to the specific target of the medication. In this case, Phosphodiesterase-5 is an enzyme involved in regulating blood flow. 

Which one to buy: Levitra or Viagra

Levitra is considered more potent than Viagra. However, both drugs are similarly effective in treating ED. 

The only advantage Levitra has over Viagra is that it has lower side effects than Viagra.

Levitra does not alter color perception, which Viagra may alter on rare occasions.

Therefore, the choice between Levitra and Viagra is highly personal.

Your doctor can suggest the best medicine for you, depending on your medical conditions and response to the treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Levitra better than Viagra?

Levitra and Viagra are equally effective at treating impotence (ED).
The only advantage that Levitra has over Viagra is that it does not alter color perception, whereas Viagra can occasionally alter color perception.
Due to the same effectiveness, it is incorrect to say that Levitra is better than Viagra.

What is the difference between Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra?

Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are medicines used to treat Erectile Dysfunction. 
The differences lie in their compositions and duration of effects. 
The active ingredient of Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra is Sildenafil, Tadalafil, and Vardenafil, respectively. 
The effects of Sildenafil and Vardenafil last up to 4 hours, but Tadalafil remains effective for 36 hours.

Is Levitra 20mg equal to Viagra 100mg?

Levitra’s highest dose is 20 mg, and Viagra’s highest dose is 100 mg. 
As per a study, Levitra is ten times more potent than Viagra. Thus, it requires a lower dose. 
Therefore, Levitra 20mg is not equal to Viagra 100mg. 
Consult your doctor to determine the right dosage for you.

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