Differences between Levitra and Viagra
Contents
Levitra vs. Viagra
Vardenafil (formerly sold under the brand name Levitra) and sildenafil (Viagra) are oral medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).[1][2] Both belong to a class of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors.[3][4] These drugs work by increasing blood flow to the penis following sexual stimulation.[5] While they function in a similar manner, there are differences in their chemical structure, potency, and how they are affected by food. The brand-name drug Levitra has been discontinued, but its generic version, vardenafil, is available.[2]
Comparison Table
| Feature | Levitra (Vardenafil) | Viagra (Sildenafil) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Vardenafil | Sildenafil |
| Time to Take Effect | Approximately 30-60 minutes | Approximately 30-60 minutes[5] |
| Duration of Effect | 4 to 6 hours | Approximately 4 hours |
| Interaction with Food | Less affected by food, though high-fat meals may slightly delay absorption. | Effectiveness can be delayed by about an hour if taken with a high-fat meal. |
| Standard Starting Dose | 10 mg | 50 mg |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, flushing, stuffy nose, indigestion.[1][3] | Headache, flushing, stuffy nose, indigestion, and occasional changes in color vision.[3] |
Mechanism of Action
Both vardenafil and sildenafil are selective inhibitors of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). By blocking this enzyme, the medications allow for increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a substance that relaxes smooth muscle and increases blood flow to the corpus cavernosum of the penis, facilitating an erection upon sexual stimulation.[5] Studies have indicated that vardenafil is more potent and selective at inhibiting PDE5 than sildenafil.[5] This higher selectivity means vardenafil does not significantly inhibit PDE6, an enzyme found in the retina, which is why vision changes are a rare side effect of sildenafil but not typically associated with vardenafil.
Pharmacokinetics
The onset of action for both drugs is similar, typically taking effect within 30 to 60 minutes. The effects of Levitra may last slightly longer than Viagra, for about 4 to 6 hours, while Viagra's effects last for about 4 hours.
A key difference is their interaction with food. Viagra's absorption can be significantly delayed if taken with a high-fat meal, potentially postponing its effects by about an hour. Levitra is less affected by food, though a very heavy or high-fat meal might cause a minor delay in its absorption.
Side Effects and Contraindications
The side effects for both medications are comparable and commonly include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion.[3] Sildenafil has a higher reported incidence of these side effects.[1] Due to its effect on the PDE6 enzyme, Viagra can occasionally cause temporary vision changes, such as a blue tinge to vision or light sensitivity, which is not a typical side effect of Levitra.[4]
Both drugs are contraindicated in patients taking nitrates for chest pain, as the combination can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure.[3] They should also be used with caution in individuals with cardiovascular disease.[2] A rare but serious side effect for both medications is priapism, a prolonged and painful erection lasting more than four hours, which requires immediate medical attention.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "goodrx.com". Retrieved January 18, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "healthline.com". Retrieved January 18, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 "singlecare.com". Retrieved January 18, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 "cheapmedicineshop.com". Retrieved January 18, 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "tryeden.com". Retrieved January 18, 2026.
