A side‑by‑side look at Viagra (sildenafil) capsules versus other ED drugs, covering onset, duration, cost, food effects and safety to help you pick the right pill.
When it comes to treating Sildenafil, a PDE5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis. Also known as Viagra, it has been the go-to option for millions since the late 1990s. But Sildenafil isn’t the only choice. Many men wonder how it stacks up against similar drugs like Tadalafil, a longer-acting ED medication often sold as Cialis or Vardenafil, a fast-acting alternative known as Levitra. Each works the same basic way—by relaxing blood vessels—but their timing, duration, and side effects can make one far better suited to your life than another.
Here’s the real difference: Sildenafil kicks in about 30 to 60 minutes after you take it and lasts around 4 to 5 hours. If you’re planning a spontaneous evening, that’s fine. But if you want flexibility—say, taking a pill in the morning and still being ready hours later—Tadalafil might be your better pick. It works for up to 36 hours. Vardenafil is faster than Sildenafil for some people, with effects starting in as little as 25 minutes. Cost-wise, generic Sildenafil is usually the cheapest, but prices vary by pharmacy and dosage. Side effects are similar across all three: headaches, flushing, stuffy nose. But Tadalafil has a lower chance of causing visual changes, while Sildenafil is more likely to cause mild blue-tinted vision. If you’re on nitrates for heart issues, none of these are safe. Always check with your doctor first.
Some men switch between them based on what works best that day. Others stick to one because it fits their routine. The Sildenafil comparison isn’t about which is "best"—it’s about which matches your body, schedule, and goals. Below, you’ll find real-world comparisons between Sildenafil and other ED treatments, including combo packs, cost breakdowns, and what users actually report after months of use. No fluff. Just clear, practical info to help you decide what works.
A side‑by‑side look at Viagra (sildenafil) capsules versus other ED drugs, covering onset, duration, cost, food effects and safety to help you pick the right pill.