Vardenafil Vs. Sildenafil

Erectile dysfunction also known as impotence is a common condition affecting up to 30 million men in the US. Impotence is defined as the inability to get and keep an erection, and it can be caused due to various reasons, such as age and certain medical conditions.

PDE5 inhibitors, also known as phosphodiesterase type 5  inhibitors are a class of drugs commonly used to treat ED in men. Two of the most effective drugs in this class include Vardenafil and Sildenafil.

This blog discusses the key differences and similarities between Sildenafil and Vardenafil. If you’re thinking about taking any of these drugs, you can review this information with your provider. Doing so can help you decide which one of these drugs is right for you.

Sildenafil Vs. Vardenafil – Key Similarities and Differences

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The table below outlines some of the similarities and differences between the two medications approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

Sildenafil And Vardenafil Brand Names

Some of the popular brand versions of Sildenafil include – Aurogra 100 mg, Cenforce Professional, Viagra, and Cenforce 100 mg.

Apart from these dosage strengths of the brand versions of Sildenafil, higher dosage strengths of this drug are also available such as Cenforce 150 and 200 mg and Malegra 200 mg.

Vardenafil is also sold under various brand names such as Vitara V 60 mg, Vilitra 20 mg, Vilitra 40 mg, and Levitra.

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How Do Vardenafil And Sildenafil Work?

Vardenafil and Sildenafil work in the same way as both of them are PDE5 inhibitors as mentioned already.

They work by increasing the blood flow to the penis. The increased flow of blood to the penis can lead to an erection.

It is crucial to remember that these medications do not cure ED and they also do not prevent STIs (sexually transmitted infections) or pregnancy [2] [3].

How To Take Vardenafil And Sildenafil?

To get effective results, follow all the instructions on your medication’s label for taking it. Generally, Sildenafil and Vardenafil have similar recommendations for how to consume them, which are as follows:

• Vardenafil and Sildenafil should be taken about 60 minutes before sexual intercourse for optimal response. However, Sildenafil can be taken anywhere between half an hour and up to four hours before sex.
• Do not consume more than one tablet in a 24-hour period.

Does Food Affect How These PDE5 Inhibitors Work?

Vardenafil can be affected by high-fat foods. However, changes in food intake are not required based on clinical studies. The prescribing information says that Vardenafil can be administered with or without meals.

On the other hand, Sildenafil can also be consumed with or without food. However, taking this PDE5 inhibitor with a high-fat meal can make the medicine take about an hour longer to show its effects.

Vardenafil And Sildenafil Side Effects

The side effects of Sildenafil and Vardenafil are almost similar and may depend on the dosage of the medication, preexisting medical issues, age, and other factors.

The most common adverse events of Vardenafil and Sildenafil include –

• Nausea
• Stuffy nose
• Indigestion
• Back pain
• Headaches
• Facial flushing [4].

Serious side effects of these medications include –

• Priapism (prolonged erections that are painful)
• Sudden vision loss
• Sudden hearing loss [5].

Note – In the event of any serious side effects after using any one of these PDE5 inhibitors consult your doctor immediately.

Drug Interactions

Vardenafil or Sildenafil interacts with numerous drugs. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs, supplements, and vitamins.

Sildenafil or Vardenafil should never be taken with nitrate drugs such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide mononitrate.

Sildenafil or Vardenafil can also interact with other medications, including:

• Alpha-blockers are used to treat high blood pressure and BPH: examples include Uroxatral (alfuzosin) and Flomax (tamsulosin).
• Other blood pressure medications include Norvasc (amlodipine).
• Norvir (ritonavir)
• Erythromycin
• Certain antifungals, such as itraconazole and ketoconazole.

Sildenafil Vs. Vardenafil – Which is better?

Few research studies have compared Sildenafil and Vardenafil.

One study by Sheila A. Doggrell published in 2005 compared three erectile dysfunction medications: Sildenafil, Vardenafil, and Tadalafil. In the study, it was found that Vardenafil was stronger than Sildenafil. However, both medications were found to be effective similarly in treating erectile dysfunction.

Another study concluded that both Sildenafil and Vardenafil were well-tolerated, with Vardenafil performing better than Sildenafil [6].

Overall, both drugs are generally effective for treating impotence. The American Urological Association does not recommend any one specific option over another as long as it is appropriate for the individual.

Doctors also recommend other treatment options for ED, such as surgery, making lifestyle changes, and mental health professionals. Lifestyle changes that may help treat ED include exercises and dietary changes.

We have a detailed guide on the best exercises for Erectile dysfunction in men when incorporated with vardenafil or sildenafil, it will help you achieve better results.

Conclusion

Vardenafil and Sildenafil are commonly prescribed medications used to treat impotence. They can help with maintaining and achieving an erection in combination with sexual stimulation.

Both of these medications are part of a class of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors. PDE5 inhibitors work by increasing blood flow to the penis. Because they are in the same drug class, they have many similarities but also some differences.

Overall, there is no “best” medication for impotence since all the medications in this class are generally effective options. Consult your primary healthcare provider for more medical advice on what might work for you.