Are Cialis & Levitra Really Any Different To Viagra?
 
Viagra (sildenafil), Levitra (vardenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil) medications are all PDE5 inhibitors that work in approximately the same way to cure erectile dysfunction (ED). However, there are a few subtle differences between them. It comes down to how quickly they are absorbed into the body and also how long they remain effective once they are. Viagra was the first oral medication for erectile dysfunction and has been available since 1998. It has the majority of the US $1.7 billion market. Levitra and Cialis came next in that order and have been gaining popularity since they were introduced.
 
All three of these drugs are much alike due to the fact that their use is to block the PDE5 enzyme Phosphodiesterase-5 which in turn improves sexual function. Laboratory tests suggest that Levitra and Cialis are both more effective than Viagra at inhibiting PDE5. What this really means is that lower dosages of the two newer drugs will equal the effectiveness of the older Viagra. Viagra is produced in strengths of 25, 50 and 100 mgs; Levitra in 2.5, 5, 10 and 20 mgs and Cialis in 5, 10 and 20 mgs. The higher doses of each are more effective but have the downside of higher side effects.
 
How they should be taken: The differences
 
Viagra should be taken on an empty stomach due to the fact that fats impair its ability to be absorbed. Levitra and Cialis, on the other hand, can be taken whether the stomach is empty or full. All three should never be taken with alcohol. Men who are taking alpha blockers for BHP (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or hypertension, should not take Levitra or Cialis at all, but can use lower dosages of Viagra cautiously under doctor’s care and advice. The other main differences between the three lie in the time it takes for each medication to produce the maximum effect. Viagra normally requires between 1 and 4 hours to work but there are some cases where it has taken far less. The benefits of Viagra can remain visible for up to 12 hours but sexual stimulation is required in order for it to work. Levitra generally becomes effective much faster, sometimes in as little as 15 minutes and it may last somewhat longer than Viagra too.
 
It is not really possible to determine just which of the three drugs in the best choice for any given individual. Not without head-to-head trials and these have not yet been performed. There is much more results-oriented data available for Viagra, because it has been in use so much longer.
 
Nevertheless, the above differences that we have explained in regards to the amount of time it takes each one to work and whether or not you need to have an empty stomach will help you to decide which drug is the best choice for you and your circumstances. Of course the best decision will come with the help of your doctor and he/she will also be able to advice you on the correct dosage. The correct dosage and advice should always be sought before taking any of these medications and if you develop priapism which is a long sustained erection that is often painful you should seek medical advice if it lasts more than 4 hours. This is not a very common occurrence but it can happen.
                                                                                                                        
As of this time there are only 3 recognised drugs to treat impotence, Viagra, Cialis and Levitra, although alternatives to these drugs cannot be ruled out in the future.