Both Viagra and Levitra medicines are used for managing erection difficulties. These are branded ED medicines that are recommended by healthcare professionals.  

The ingredient list of both these medicines differ, but their action mechanism is the same. They both have some key ingredients that belong under the class of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.   

PDE5 inhibitors are the compounds that suppress some enzymes from affecting the penile blood vessels. The health and function of blood vessels is essential for optimal erection function. ED medicines prevent any damage from the enzymes and revive the erection function.  

They boost the flow of blood to the penile by causing vasodilation. They also differ in costs. The healthcare provider may suggest either of these two by considering several factors including severity, health conditions, suitability, etc.   

Difference between Viagra and Levitra

While both Viagra and Levitra contain different key ingredients, they have similar functions. The active ingredients of these two come under the class of PDE5 inhibitors.    

Here are some basic differences between Viagra and Levitra:

Active ingredients

Viagra’s active ingredient is sildenafil citrate, while Levitra’s active ingredient is vardenafil hydrochloride. Although these ingredients serve the same purpose, they differ in their effective time.

Both these active ingredients are classified under phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. They negate the action of PDE5 enzymes and prevent the narrowing of the penile blood vessels.

Onset of action

Viagra medicines typically begin their action within 30 to 60 minutes after intake, although it can vary depending on factors such as dosage and individual response.

Vardenafil generally has a faster onset of action compared to sildenafil, with effects being felt within about 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion.

Duration of action

The effectiveness of Viagra medicines typically lasts for around 4 to 6 hours. Levitra's effectiveness may last slightly longer, with a duration of action of approximately 4 to 5 hours.

The action time of these medicines changes depending on the dose. High-dose medicines will remain active for longer compared to small ones.

Dosage

Levitra medicine comes in three doses, including 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg. Whereas, Viagra pills are available in three doses, that are, 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.

The healthcare provider will recommend an appropriate dose based on the severity of your impotence issues and several other factors like age, interactions, medicine, etc.

Bioavailability

Viagra medicine has lower bioavailability in comparison to Levitra medicines when taken with food. Since medicinal absorption might be affected after its interaction with food. Levitra’s absorption is less affected by food, so it can be taken with or without meals.

Interactions

Viagra and Levitra, both can interact with certain medications, especially those composed using nitrates used to treat chest pain (angina) or recreational drugs called poppers (amyl nitrate).

Their interactions with certain medicines can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Make sure you inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Viagra or Levitra.

Side effects

Common side effects of Viagra medicines are headaches, flushing, stuffy nose, upset stomach, nose bleeds, low blood pressure, prolonged erections, and vision changes.

Levitra can trigger side effects such as headache, flushing, runny nose or stuffy nose, dizziness, blurry vision, etc.

Cost

The cost of both these medicines may differ, depending on several factors like brand name, dosage strength, and pharmacy location. Their prices may vary according to pharmacy locations, also the availability of discounts and offers can be different.

Such branded ED medicines are too expensive. They are affordable for everyone. Individuals can prefer generic versions of these medicines, which are available at cheaper costs. One such generic version of Viagra is Fildena 25, which delivers the action as Viagra.   

How do Viagra and Levitra deliver their action?

These medicines work effectively by relaxing the muscles of the vascular walls and dilating the blood vessels of the penile. They increase the flow of blood through the penile arteries to promote firmer erections. 

Key ingredients of both these medicines are pharmacologically categorized under PDE5 inhibitor drugs. Their function is to suppress the action of PDE5 enzymes in the penile blood vessels. 

Through vasodilation, these medicines boost the blood flow to the penile. These medicines will trigger the desired effects only during sexual stimulation.

It is necessary to attain sexual arousal through some sort of stimulation. Once the state of arousal is attained, the medicines kick into action.

The lowdown

Viagra and Levitra medicines are powerful erection stimulants, that are made of active and non-active ingredients. These medicines relieve erection difficulties. The key ingredients in both these medicines overcome erectile difficulties.       

Both these medicines deliver the same action but they have various differences. They differ in their action time, composition, effectiveness, bioavailability, side effects, interactions, cost, etc.