If you’re among the 15 to 30 million men in the United States grappling with erectile dysfunction, you might have discussed with your doctor the option of trying prescription medications. Among these, Levitra and Viagra stand out as popular choices for treating ED. They belong to a class of medications known as PDE-5 (phosphodiesterase-5) inhibitors, which also include Cialis (tadalafil) and Stendra (avanafil).
PDE5 inhibitors function alongside sexual arousal, enhancing nitric oxide levels and activity, resulting in improved blood circulation to the penis, facilitating erection. Additionally, they extend erection duration and enhance sexual gratification. While Levitra and Viagra share the classification of PDE-5 inhibitors and exhibit considerable similarities, they also possess distinct characteristics.
What are the main differences between Levitra and Viagra?
Levitra (vardenafil), referred to generically as vardenafil, and Viagra, also known as sildenafil, are classified as PDE-5 inhibitors. They are offered in both brand and generic tablet forms.
In the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), it is important to note that regardless of the dosage, these medications should not be consumed more than once daily. Furthermore, the effectiveness of Levitra or Viagra is contingent upon the presence of sexual stimulation.
Main differences between Levitra and Viagra
| Drug class | PDE-5 inhibitor | PDE-5 inhibitor |
| Brand/generic status | Brand and generic | Brand and generic |
| What is the generic name? | Vardenafil | Sildenafil |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Tablet | Tablet |
| What is the standard dosage? | 10 mg taken 1 hour prior to sexual activity (dose can range from 5 mg to 20 mg) *not to be used more than once daily, regardless of dose |
50 mg taken 1 hour prior to sexual activity (dose can range from 25 mg to 100 mg) *not to be used more than once daily, regardless of dose |
| How long is the typical treatment? | As needed | As needed |
| Who typically uses the medication? | Adult males | Adult males |
Conditions treated by Levitra and Viagra
Levitra and Viagra are indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Both drugs have been used off-label for Raynaud’s phenomenon or for female sexual arousal disorder. The form of sildenafil known as Revatio (NOT Viagra) is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, only at the dose of 20 mg three times daily, and not at the doses Viagra is available in (25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg).
Is Levitra or Viagra more effective?
From clinical trials, it’s established that both Levitra and Viagra exhibit efficacy, but the question of superiority remains. In a comparative analysis focusing on erectile dysfunction (ED) medications, Levitra was identified as having greater potency than Viagra; nevertheless, both were found to yield similar effectiveness in addressing ED. Notably, Levitra boasted an advantage in not causing alterations in color perception, a rare occurrence associated with Viagra. Another investigation concluded that both drugs were generally well-tolerated, with a slight edge for Levitra over Viagra.
Determining the optimal medication for you necessitates consultation with your healthcare provider. They will consider factors such as your medical history, specific conditions, and concurrent medications that might interact with Levitra or Viagra.
Comparison of the coverage and pricing between Levitra and Viagra.
Insurance coverage varies widely for Levitra and Viagra. Many insurance companies do not cover these drugs, or may have a quantity limit (for example, four tablets per month).
A standard prescription of 10, 10 mg vardenafil (generic Levitra) tablets cost about $450 to over $500 without insurance. You can use a SingleCare coupon to get a prescription filled for as low as $365.
A standard prescription of 10, 50 mg sildenafil (generic Viagra) tablets is comparable to Levitra but a SingleCare discount card can reduce the price to $150-$300 depending on which pharmacy you use.
Common side effects of Levitra vs. Viagra
The most common side effects of Levitra and Viagra are headache, flushing, stuffy nose, and indigestion.
Other side effects may occur. This is not a complete list. Consult your ED healthcare provider for medical advice.
Warnings of Levitra and Viagra
- Levitra or Viagra should not be given with any nitrate medication (such as nitroglycerin), because the combination can lead to a dangerous decrease in blood pressure.
- Cardiovascular health should be evaluated. If a patient has certain heart/blood pressure problems, the medication may be unsafe. Consult your healthcare provider.
- Use with caution in patients with anatomical deformations of the penis.
- Rarely, prolonged erection (over 4 hours) or priapism (painful erection over 6 hours) may occur. If an erection lasts longer than 4 hours, seek immediate medical care. Failing to treat this immediately could result in permanent damage.
- Stop taking Levitra or Viagra and seek immediate medical care if you have a sudden loss of vision in one or both eye(s). Although rare, this could be a sign of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which is a rare condition and a cause of decreased vision, which could lead to permanent vision loss.
- Stop taking Levitra or Viagra and seek immediate medical care if you have a sudden loss of hearing.
- Dosage adjustment is required for patients with moderate liver issues. Levitra or Viagra should not be used in patients with severe liver problems.
- Patients on dialysis should not use Levitra or Viagra.
- Because these medications do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STD), patients should use protective measures, such as condoms.
Although both drugs are indicated in men, they are sometimes used off-label in women. However, there is no data on either drug in pregnant women. Therefore, Levitra or Viagra should not be used in pregnant women.
Frequently asked questions about Levitra vs. Viagra
What is Levitra?
Levitra (vardenafil) is a prescription medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). The brand-name product is a Bayer product, and it is also available in generic by several manufacturers.
What is Viagra?
Viagra (sildenafil) is an FDA-approved prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. The brand-name product is a Pfizer product, and it is also available in generic by several manufacturers.
You may have also heard of Revatio being used for ED in place of Viagra. Revatio is another drug that contains sildenafil, the same ingredient in Viagra. Revatio is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and works by dilating the blood vessels in the lungs. Although Revatio is used for PAH, it is often prescribed off-label for ED. Sometimes, if insurance does not cover brand or generic Viagra, a doctor may prescribe Revatio, which is usually covered by insurance.
Are Levitra and Viagra the same?
Both drugs are in the same category of medications and work in the same way. However, some patients prefer one over the other. Ask your doctor if one of these drugs is right for you.
Is Levitra or Viagra better?
Both drugs are very similar in terms of efficacy, side effects, and drug interactions. Talk to your doctor to help you determine if Levitra or Viagra may be better for you.
Can I use Levitra or Viagra while pregnant?
Levitra and Viagra are not indicated for use in women but sometimes used off-label for female sexual arousal disorder. However, because there is no data about the use of these medications in pregnancy; Levitra or Viagra should not be used in pregnant women.
Can I use Levitra or Viagra with alcohol?
Alcohol can reduce the chance of getting an erection, so it is advisable not to take Levitra or Viagra with alcohol.
Is 20 mg Levitra equal to 100 mg Viagra?
The highest dose of Levitra is 20 mg, and the highest dose of Viagra is 100 mg. That being said, Levitra tends to be more potent than Viagra, and may require a lower dose. Your doctor can help you determine the dose that is right for you.
Does Levitra have fewer side effects than Viagra?
The side effects of Levitra and Viagra are similar, and seem to occur at similar rates, although more side effects may occur at higher doses.
Can you mix Viagra with Levitra?
Taking two ED medications together is not recommended. If you are taking an ED medication that is not working, talk to your doctor about trying a different one, and/or consider lifestyle factors.
Is Cialis stronger than Viagra?
Cialis lasts up to about 18 hours, while Viagra lasts up to about 6 hours. Both drugs seem to be similarly effective, but the effects of Cialis lasts longer.
What is the most effective ED drug?
All of the ED drugs have been shown to be effective in clinical studies. Talk to your doctor to determine if an ED drug is appropriate for you.
