ED Medication Comparison Tool
| Medication | Typical Dose | Onset Time | Duration | Food Interaction | Average Cost (US$) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viagra (Sildenafil) | 50 mg | 30–60 min | 4–6 hr | High-fat meals may delay | $1.20 (brand) / $0.30 (generic) |
| Cialis (Tadalafil) | 10 mg | 15–30 min | Up to 36 hr | Minimal | $1.50 (brand) / $0.40 (generic) |
| Levitra (Vardenafil) | 10 mg | 25–60 min | 4–5 hr | Less affected by food | $1.30 (brand) |
| Stendra (Avanafil) | 100 mg | 15–30 min | 4–6 hr | Minimal | $2.00 (brand) |
| Generic Sildenafil | 50 mg | 30–60 min | 4–6 hr | High-fat meals may delay | $0.30 |
| Herbal Supplements | Varies | Varies | Varies | Usually none | $0.10–$0.50 |
Select a medication above to see detailed information
When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction (ED), the market is crowded with pills, capsules, and even natural products. Picking the right one can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve only heard the brand names tossed around. This guide breaks down Viagra capsules is a tablet form of sildenafil, the first FDA‑approved oral ED medication, introduced in 1998 and stacks it side‑by‑side with the most common alternatives. By the end you’ll know how each option works, how fast it kicks in, how long it lasts, and what safety concerns to watch for - so you can choose the product that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Quick Takeaways
- Viagra capsules start working in 30‑60 minutes and last about 4‑6 hours.
- Cialis (tadalafil) offers a 36‑hour window, making it the “weekend pill.”
- Levitra (vardenafil) acts a bit faster than Viagra but has a similar duration.
- Stendra (avanafil) may work in as little as 15 minutes for some men.
- Generic sildenafil provides the same effect as Viagra at a fraction of the price.
What Are Viagra Capsules?
Viagra was the first oral medication designed specifically for ED. The active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, belongs to a class called phosphodiesterase‑5 (PDE‑5) inhibitors. It works by relaxing the smooth muscle in the penis, allowing blood to fill the erectile tissue when sexual stimulation occurs.
Dosage forms include 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets. In many countries the capsule version is marketed for easier swallowing, but the pharmacology is identical to the tablet.
How Sildenafil Works
Sildenafil blocks the enzyme PDE‑5, which normally breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). When PDE‑5 is inhibited, cGMP builds up, causing the blood vessels in the penis to dilate. The result is an erection that can be maintained for a few hours, provided there’s sexual arousal.
This mechanism is shared across all approved oral ED drugs, but each molecule differs in how strongly it binds to PDE‑5, how quickly it’s absorbed, and how long it stays in the bloodstream.
Major Alternatives Overview
Below are the six most frequently mentioned alternatives to Viagra capsules. Each entry includes a quick snapshot of its key attributes.
Cialis is a brand name for tadalafil, a PDE‑5 inhibitor with a longer half‑life than sildenafil
Tadalafil’s main draw is its 36‑hour activity window. Men often call it the “weekend pill” because a single dose can cover spontaneous encounters over two days. It’s available in 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg strengths. The 2.5mg and 5mg doses are sometimes used daily for continuous readiness.
Levitra is a brand name for vardenafil, another PDE‑5 inhibitor that works similarly to sildenafil but with a slightly faster onset
Levitra usually kicks in within 25‑60 minutes and lasts about 4‑5 hours. It comes in 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets. Some men prefer it because it can be taken with a light meal, whereas high‑fat foods can delay sildenafil’s effect.
Stendra is a brand name for avanafil, the newest PDE‑5 inhibitor on the market, known for rapid onset
Clinical data show that avanafil can work in as little as 15 minutes for a subset of users. The duration is roughly 4‑6 hours, comparable to Viagra. It’s offered in 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg tablets.
Generic Sildenafil
Once the patent on Viagra expired, a multitude of manufacturers began selling generic sildenafil. The active ingredient, dosage forms, and efficacy are identical to the branded version, but the price can be 60‑80% lower. Generic pills are widely available in most pharmacies and online platforms that require a prescription.
Herbal Supplements (e.g., Horny Goat Weed)
Herbal options are marketed as “natural” alternatives. Horny goat weed, yohimbine, and L‑arginine are popular ingredients. While some small studies suggest modest benefits, the evidence is far less robust than for prescription PDE‑5 inhibitors, and the purity of over‑the‑counter blends varies widely.
Side‑by‑Side Comparison
| Medication | Typical Dose | Onset | Duration | Food Interaction | Average Cost (US$) per Pill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viagra (Sildenafil) | 50mg | 30‑60min | 4‑6hr | High‑fat meals may delay | ~$1.20 (brand) / $0.30 (generic) |
| Cialis (Tadalafil) | 10mg | 15‑30min | Up to 36hr | Minimal | ~$1.50 (brand) / $0.40 (generic) |
| Levitra (Vardenafil) | 10mg | 25‑60min | 4‑5hr | Less affected by food | ~$1.30 (brand) |
| Stendra (Avanafil) | 100mg | 15‑30min | 4‑6hr | Minimal | ~$2.00 (brand) |
| Generic Sildenafil | 50mg | 30‑60min | 4‑6hr | High‑fat meals may delay | ~$0.30 |
| Herbal Supplements | Varies | Varies | Varies | Usually none | ~$0.10‑$0.50 |
How to Choose the Right Option
Deciding which ED medication suits you isn’t just about price or brand name. Consider these real‑world factors:
- Timing needs: If you want spontaneity on a weekend, Cialis’s 36‑hour window may be a game‑changer. For a quick, on‑the‑spot boost, Stendra or the fast‑acting form of tadalafil is worth a look.
- Food habits: Heavy, greasy meals can slow down sildenafil. Tadalafil and avanafil are less sensitive to food, so they work better if you dine out before intimacy.
- Cost constraints: Generic sildenafil offers the same efficacy as Viagra at a fraction of the cost. If you’re on a tight budget, start there.
- Health profile: Men taking nitrates for chest pain should avoid all PDE‑5 inhibitors. Those with severe liver or kidney disease may need dose adjustments, especially for tadalafil.
- Side‑effect tolerance: Headaches, facial flushing, and dyspepsia are common across the class. However, tadalafil can cause back pain, while avanafil tends to cause fewer visual disturbances.
Talk to a healthcare professional to rule out contraindications and to get a prescription that aligns with your health status.
Potential Side Effects & Safety Tips
All PDE‑5 inhibitors share a core set of possible reactions:
- Headache (10‑15% of users)
- Flushing (5‑10%)
- Indigestion or upset stomach
- Nasality or a runny nose
- Rarely, sudden vision loss (ischemic optic neuropathy)
Here’s how to minimize risk:
- Start with the lowest effective dose (often 25mg for Viagra, 5mg for Cialis).
- Avoid alcohol excess - it can worsen dizziness.
- Do not combine with nitrate medications (e.g., nitroglycerin).
- Store pills at room temperature, away from moisture.
- If you experience a painful erection lasting more than 4hours, seek emergency care - a condition called priapism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Viagra capsules and Cialis together?
No. Both drugs belong to the same PDE‑5 class, so taking them together can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Choose one medication per occasion and follow the dose guidelines.
Is it safe to buy generic sildenafil online?
It’s safe only if you use a reputable, licensed pharmacy that requires a prescription. Look for certifications like the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) or equivalents in your country.
How long does it take for Stendra to work on an empty stomach?
Most men notice an effect within 15‑30 minutes when they’ve not eaten a large meal. The fast onset makes it a good option for spontaneous plans.
Are herbal ED supplements regulated?
In many countries, herbal blends are sold as “nutraceuticals” and are not subject to the same rigorous testing as prescription drugs. Quality can vary, and some products may contain hidden synthetic ingredients. Always check for third‑party testing results.
Can I take a PDE‑5 inhibitor if I have high blood pressure?
Most men with controlled hypertension can safely use these drugs, but you should consult your doctor. Certain blood‑pressure medications (especially alpha‑blockers) may need dose adjustments.
Choosing an ED medication is personal. Whether you go for the trusted brand Viagra, the long‑lasting Cialis, the rapid‑acting Stendra, or a cost‑effective generic, the key is matching the drug’s profile to your lifestyle and health status. Always involve a healthcare professional before starting a new therapy.
Taryn Thompson
October 6, 2025 AT 13:54When you’re deciding between Viagra and its alternatives, start by mapping your activity schedule – do you need spontaneity or a planned night? Sildenafil‑based drugs like Viagra hit within 30‑60 minutes and stay effective for about five hours, which suits most weekend plans. Tadalafil’s 36‑hour window can be a game‑changer for men who want flexibility without timing the dose. Remember that high‑fat meals can delay the onset of sildenafil, so timing your dinner matters. If cost is a concern, the generic version offers identical efficacy at a fraction of the brand price.