ED Medication Comparison: Sildenafil, Cialis, Levitra & More

When it comes to ED medication, oral treatments used to improve erectile function by increasing blood flow to the penis. Also known as erectile dysfunction drugs, these medications are among the most commonly prescribed for men seeking reliable, on-demand results. Not all ED pills are the same. Some kick in fast but fade quick. Others last all day but take longer to start. Side effects vary. Costs differ. And what works for your buddy might do nothing for you.

Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra and generic versions like Medexil. Also known as generic Viagra, it’s the original ED pill that started it all. It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to work, lasts about 4 to 5 hours, and works best on an empty stomach. Then there’s Cialis, a longer-acting option with tadalafil as its active ingredient. Also known as the weekend pill, it can stay effective for up to 36 hours—perfect for spontaneity. Levitra, with vardenafil inside, hits faster than sildenafil for some men and is less affected by food. Also known as the food-friendly ED pill, it’s a solid middle-ground choice. And then there’s Stendra, the fastest-acting option with avanafil. Also known as the quick-start ED drug, it can work in as little as 15 minutes. Each has different side effect profiles—headaches, flushing, nasal congestion—but some men report fewer issues with one over another.

Cost matters too. Generic sildenafil is often the cheapest, especially when bought online. Cialis has a daily low-dose version for ongoing use. Levitra and Stendra tend to cost more unless you find a discount. And while all these drugs are safe for most men, they’re not for everyone—especially if you take nitrates, have heart issues, or have low blood pressure.

This collection of posts gives you real, side-by-side comparisons—not marketing fluff. You’ll see how Medexil stacks up against Viagra. How Cialis beats others in duration. Why some men switch from Levitra to Stendra. What the hidden trade-offs are between cost, timing, and comfort. No guesswork. No vague advice. Just clear, practical data from men who’ve tried them all.