When researching treatment options for erectile dysfunction (ED), it can be confusing to figure out the real differences between Viagra and Cialis or whether Levitra's effectiveness matches the other two.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know, including which is better, Cialis or Viagra, onset time, duration, dosage equivalency, safety, cost, and real-world factors. So you can make an informed decision about these prescription medications.
Understanding Erectile Dysfunction and PDE5 Inhibitors
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It affects millions of men and can be linked to:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Hormonal imbalance
- Anxiety or stress
- Medication side effects
Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra all belong to a class of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors. These medications improve blood flow by blocking the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), allowing nitric oxide to help relax blood vessels in the penis.
All three are prescription medications and require sexual stimulation to work.
Viagra (Sildenafil)
Generic name: Sildenafil
Drug class: PDE5 inhibitor
Viagra was the first FDA-approved ED pill and remains one of the most recognized men’s health treatments.
Onset of Action
- 30–60 minutes
- Best taken on an empty stomach
Duration
- 4–6 hours
Common Side Effects of Viagra
- Headache
- Flushing
- Nasal congestion
- Indigestion
- Visual disturbances (blue tint vision)
Because of visual side effects, some men explore comparisons between vardenafil and sildenafil.
Cialis (Tadalafil)
Generic name: Tadalafil
When comparing tadalafil vs sildenafil, the biggest difference is duration. Tadalafil, also known as the weekend Pill
Onset
- 30–45 minutes
Duration
- Up to 36 hours
Cialis also offers a unique daily low-dose option (2.5mg or 5mg), making it suitable for spontaneous sexual activity.
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Back pain
- Muscle aches
- Flushing
Back pain is more common with tadalafil than with sildenafil.
Levitra (Vardenafil)
Generic name: Vardenafil
When people search for Viagra vs Levitra or vardenafil vs Viagra, they’re comparing similar-duration drugs.
Onset
- 30–60 minutes
Duration
- 4–6 hours
Levitra Effectiveness
Clinical data show Levitra effectiveness is similar to Viagra. Some studies suggest it may perform well in men with diabetes-related ED.
Side Effects
- Headache
- Flushing
- Dizziness
Levitra typically causes fewer visual side effects than sildenafil.
Viagra vs Cialis: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common search questions is:
What’s the difference between Viagra and Cialis?
Feature | Cialis | |
Onset | 30–60 min | 30–45 min |
Duration | 4–6 hours | Up to 36 hours |
Daily Option | No | Yes |
Food Impact | Affected by high-fat meals | Minimal |
- If you prefer a short window → Viagra.
- If you prefer flexibility → Cialis.
Is 20mg Cialis Equal to 100mg Viagra?
No, the milligram amounts are not directly equivalent.
- 100mg Viagra is the highest recommended sildenafil dose.
- 20mg Cialis is the maximum as-needed tadalafil dose.
Tadalafil lasts much longer in the bloodstream, so potency cannot be compared milligram-to-milligram.
Tadalafil vs Sildenafil: Key Differences
When comparing tadalafil vs sildenafil, consider:
Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Shorter duration
- More visual side effects
- Less spontaneous
Tadalafil (Cialis)
- Long duration
- Daily option available
- Slightly more muscle-related side effects
Viagra vs Levitra
When comparing Viagra vs Levitra or vardenafil vs sildenafil:
- Both last 4–6 hours
- Both may be affected by heavy meals
- Levitra may cause fewer vision-related side effects
For some men, vardenafil vs Viagra comparisons come down to tolerance rather than effectiveness.
Levitra vs Cialis
When comparing Levitra vs Cialis:
- Levitra = short-acting
- Cialis = long-acting
If you want extended flexibility → Cialis
If you want a shorter action window → Levitra
Viagra vs Cialis vs Levitra: Complete Comparison Table
Category | Viagra | Cialis | Levitra |
Active Ingredient | Sildenafil | Tadalafil | Vardenafil |
Onset | 30–60 min | 30–45 min | 30–60 min |
Duration | 4–6 hrs | Up to 36 hrs | 4–6 hrs |
Daily Dose Option | No | Yes | No |
Food Interaction | High-fat delays | Minimal | Moderate |
Visual Side Effects | More common | Rare | Less common |
Muscle/Back Pain | Rare | More common | Rare |
Generic Available | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Cialis vs Viagra Price Comparison
General Pricing Trends (US market)
- Generic sildenafil → usually cheapest
- Generic tadalafil → affordable but slightly higher
- Generic vardenafil → moderate pricing
Insurance often limits ED medication coverage. Telehealth providers sometimes offer subscription discounts.
If price is your priority:
→ Generic sildenafil ( Cenforce, Kamagra, Oral Jelly) is typically the cheapest Viagra and Cialis alternative.
Can You Take Viagra and Cialis Together?
The answer: No.
Combining PDE5 inhibitors can cause:
- Severe blood pressure drops
- Fainting
- Cardiac complications
Never mix sildenafil and tadalafil unless explicitly directed by a physician (rare).
Which Is Better: Cialis or Viagra Or Is Cialis better than Viagra?
The best choice depends on lifestyle:
If You Prefer | Best Option |
Planning intimacy | Viagra |
Spontaneity | Cialis |
Daily readiness | Cialis |
Lowest cost | Sildenafil |
Fewer visual issues | Levitra |
There is no universally superior drug.
Viagra vs Cialis vs Levitra cost?
- Brand Viagra: as low as $25.30/ 4 Tablets for the most common version
- Generic sildenafil: prices can start around $0.40/ Tablet (varies by dose/quantity/pharmacy)
- Generic Cialis (tadalafil): as low as $0.60/ Tablet ; 30 tablets costing $30.67–$80.24 depending on strength
- Levitra (vardenafil): prices start at $35.79; example shows 10 tablets of 20 mg for $35.79 (about $3.58 per tablet).
Side Effect Profile Comparison
All three medications share similar risks because they are PDE5 inhibitors.
Shared Risks
- Headache
- Flushing
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness
Serious Risks
- Priapism (erection > 4 hours)
- Sudden vision loss
- Sudden hearing loss
All are contraindicated with nitrate medications.
Men with cardiovascular disease should consult a doctor before use.
Vardenafil vs Sildenafil vs Tadalafil: Which Is Strongest?
Effectiveness rates are similar across all three.
The biggest differences are:
- Duration
- Side effect patterns
- Dosing flexibility
There is no clear “strongest” response varies individually.
Final Decision Guide
Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Choose Viagra (Sildenafil) if:
- You want a short duration
- You want the lowest cost
- You prefer planned use
Choose Cialis (Tadalafil) if:
- You want a long duration
- You prefer spontaneity
- You want daily dosing
Choose Levitra (Vardenafil) if:
- You had visual side effects with Viagra
- You want a similar short-duration option
FAQ
What is the difference between Viagra and Cialis?
Viagra is sildenafil and usually has a shorter window of effect, while Cialis is tadalafil and is known for a longer duration. They are both PDE5 inhibitors and are considered to work similarly overall, with the main difference being how long they last and how you plan timing.
Whats better Cialis or Viagra?
Neither is universally better. Many people choose Cialis for longer flexibility, while others prefer Viagra for shorter, more planned use. Studies don’t clearly prove one works better than the other overall.
Why does Viagra work better than Cialis?
Usually, it’s individual response, timing, food/alcohol effects, dose, and tolerance to side effects. They’re generally considered to work equally well overall, so perceived differences are often personal fit rather than one being objectively stronger.
Which one is more effective Viagra or Cialis?
They are considered similarly effective overall, and there is limited head-to-head evidence proving one is more effective than the other.
Why Cialis is better than Viagra?
For many people, Cialis feels better because its longer duration can reduce pressure around timing. It’s not better for everyone, but it can fit lifestyle needs more easily.
Which is more powerful Viagra or Cialis?
Neither is officially more powerful overall. They are generally considered to work equally well, and the best choice is the one that fits your body response and timing preferences.
Which is safer to use Viagra or Cialis?
Both are widely used, and safety depends on your health conditions, other medications, and correct dosing. There is no single safest option for everyone.
Which is cheaper Viagra Cialis or Levitra?
Generic tadalafil (Cialis) can be very low per tablet (about $0.26–$0.47/tablet in the 30-tablet examples), while vardenafil often costs more per tablet in the examples (about $3.58/tablet for 20 mg x 10). Sildenafil pricing varies widely, but can be low with coupons depending on dose and quantity.
Is Levitra better than Viagra?
Not clearly. These ED meds are considered to work equally well overall, though there are limited direct comparisons. Levitra (vardenafil) may be chosen when someone prefers its effects or tolerates its side effects, but it is not proven to be broadly superior.
Conclusion
When comparing Viagra vs Cialis vs Levitra, all three are effective treatment options for erectile dysfunction. The main differences involve duration, flexibility, side effects, and price.
The best medication depends on your personal health profile, lifestyle preferences, and medical history.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or switching ED medications.
References
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Viagra (Sildenafil) Prescribing Information
Mayo Clinic – Erectile Dysfunction Overview
Drugs.com – Viagra vs Levitra Comparison
Healthline – Cialis vs Levitra vs Viagra
