Sildenafil vs Vardenafil - Which is Best?

Table of Contents

• What is the difference between Sildenafil and Vardenafil?
• Does the dosage differ?
• Do Sildenafil and Vardenafil have the same side effects?
• Which one is more expensive?
• Is Vardenafil better than Sildenafil?
• Should I take Sildenafil or Vardenafil?

What is The Difference Between Sildenafil and Vardenafil?

Sildenafil, also known by the brand name ‘Viagra’, is a type of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor and contains an active ingredient called Sildenafil citrate. It inhibits the action of the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) enzyme, increasing the levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the body. This chemical is responsible for relaxing the smooth muscle and blood vessels in the penis, leading to improved blood flow upon sexual stimulation and causing an erection. A prescription from a doctor is needed to get Sildenafil or it can be purchased through an online pharmacy after consulting with a pharmacist. It comes in different strengths including 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg tablets. [2]

Vardenafil, commonly known by the brand name ‘Levitra’, is another type of PDE5 inhibitor. Instead of Sildenafil citrate, it contains an active ingredient called Vardenafil hydrochloride (HCI). Vardenafil also works by blocking the PDE5 enzyme. It relaxes the blood vessels and improves blood flow to the penis, resulting in a long-lasting erection. It can be obtained through a private prescription or following a discussion with a pharmacist. Vardenafil comes in 5mg, 10mg or 20mg strength tablets. [3]

Does The Dosage Differ?

The dosage of Sildenafil and Vardenafil can slightly differ from person to person. 

The usual dosage of Sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction is one 50mg tablet taken as needed, around 1 hour before sexual activity. Dosages can be decreased to 25 mg or increased to 100 mg depending on its effect on the user. Only one Sildenafil tablet can be taken a day. The effects take between 30 and 60 minutes to kick in. It is advised to take Sildenafil with water on an empty stomach as it may take longer to work if taken with food. 

The typical starting dosage of Vardenafil for erectile dysfunction is one 10 mg tablet taken as needed, approximately 25 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. Depending on the user’s response and tolerability, the dosage can be switched to 5 mg or 20 mg. Similar to Sildenafil, only one Vardenafil tablet can be taken per day. Vardenafil can be swallowed with water on an empty stomach or after a light meal, although taking it with food may slow down the time it takes to kick in.

Whether you are taking Sildenafil or Vardenafil, always follow the dosage and instructions according to the product information leaflet or the instructions given by your doctor. 

Do Sildenafil and Vardenafil Have the Same Side Effects?

Both Sildenafil and Vardenafil are types of PDE5 inhibitors, meaning they work in the same way and have similar side effects. 

Side Effects of Sildenafil:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Facial flushing
• Indigestion
• Nasal congestion
• Dizziness 
• Visual disturbances
• Eye irritation 
• Heart palpitations
• High or low blood pressure
• Muscle aches
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Numbness or tingling of the hands, legs or feet

Side Effects of Vardenafil:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Flushing
• Indigestion
• Nasal congestion
• Dizziness
• Vision changes such as blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Back pain
• Muscle aches
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Sildenafil and Vardenafil have similar side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some side effects can vary on the brand and strength. For instance, Vardenafil may cause back pain, while Sildenafil may cause visual disturbances. For a full list of side effects, please read the product information leaflet.

If a user experiences chest pain, painful erections, prolonged erections that last more than 4 hours, difficulty breathing, swelling or other serious side effects, stop the medication and seek medical attention immediately. The user may have an allergic reaction to Sildenafil or Vardenafil.

Which is More Expensive?

The cost of Sildenafil and Vardenafil can vary depending on the brand, strength, quantity and pharmacy. As of September 2024, online leading UK pharmacies charge from £5 to £16 for a 4-tablet box of non-branded Sildenafil 25 mg. At Chemist Click, a 4-tablet box of non-branded Sildenafil 25 mg is £5.89. For the standard dose, the average cost is £13 to £28 for an 8-tablet box of non-branded Sildenafil 50 mg. At Chemist Click, an 8-tablet box of non-branded Sildenafil 50 mg is £13.89.

As of September 2024, online leading UK pharmacies charge between £11 and £30 for a 4-tablet box of non-branded Vardenafil 5 mg. At Chemist Click, a 4-tablet box of non-branded Vanderafil 5 mg is £11.99. For the typical dosage, the average cost is between £25 and £55 for an 8-tablet box of non-branded Vardenafil 10 mg. At Chemist Click, an 8-tablet box of non-branded Vanderafil 10 mg is £25.99.

As you can see, Sildenafil tends to be cheaper than Vardenafil. 

Is Vardenafil Better Than Sildenafil?

The all-important question is which is better for treating erectile dysfunction, Sildenafil or Vardenafil? The effects of Sildenafil can last for an average of 4 hours. On the other hand, the effects of Vardenafil can last up to 5 hours. This does not mean users will experience an erection for 4 or 5 hours, a male user may achieve an erection between the time the medication was taken and the time effects start to wear off. For Sildenafil or Vardenafil to work effectively, sexual arousal or stimulation is required. 

Some studies have compared the efficacy of Sildenafil and Vardenafil. One study claims that Vardenafil is similarly effective to Sildenafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. However, Vardenafil is more potent and selective than Sildenafil at blocking the PDE5 enzyme. [4]

Another study conducted a clinical trial and compared the efficacy and safety of Sildenafil and Vardenafil in men with erectile dysfunction and diabetes, hypertension, and/or hyperlipidemia. 931 men with an average age of 58 years were randomised to take Sildenafil 100 mg or Vardenafil 20 mg tablets for 4 weeks. After a 1-week washout, participants switched treatments for a further 4 weeks. 

The study found that Vardenafil had a slightly better impact on erectile dysfunction compared to Sildenafil. Vardenafil was found to be preferred by 38.9% of male participants compared to 34.5% who preferred Sildenafil. Both medications were well tolerated by participants. [5]

Should I Take Sildenafil or Vardenafil?

Sildenafil and Vardenafil are just as effective in treating erectile dysfunction. The decision as to whether you should take Sildenafil or Vardenafil is a complex one as it depends on the user’s preference, tolerability, response and what is available to them. 

Some users prefer the medication that kicks in quicker or has a longer-lasting effect. In this case, Vardenafil works slightly faster and has a longer-lasting effect than Sildenafil. Availability can also affect a user’s choice. Sildenafil is available through the NHS, but Vardenafil is only available on the NHS in certain circumstances. In terms of efficacy, Vardenafil is said to be more potent than Sildenafil. If cost is an important factor to you, Sildenafil is usually cheaper than Vardenafil. 

It’s important to note that users may respond differently to both medications. The best ED medication is the one that works for your tolerability and individual needs.
 

Sources

1. The British Association of Urological Surgeons. (n.d). Erectile dysfunction (impotence). Retrieved 26th September 2024, from: https://www.baus.org.uk/patients/conditions/3/erectile_dysfunction_impotence/#What_are_the_facts_about_impotence_
2. NHS (2022). Sildenafil (Viagra). Retrieved 26th September 2024, from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/sildenafil-viagra/
3. Drugs.com. (2023). Vardenafil. Retrieved 26th September 2024, from: https://www.drugs.com/mtm/vardenafil.html
4. Doggrell SA. (2005). Comparison of clinical trials with sildenafil, vardenafil and tadalafil in erectile dysfunction. Retrieved 26th September 2024, from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15709885/
5. Rubio-Aurioles E, Porst H, Eardley I, Goldstein I. (2006). Comparing vardenafil and sildenafil in the treatment of men with erectile dysfunction and risk factors for cardiovascular disease: a randomised, double-blind, pooled crossover study. Retrieved 26th September 2024, from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17100937/

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.