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by Robert MacKay, Monday, 04 October 2010 | Categories: Erectile Dysfunction

One of the most frequent questions that we get asked is, which erectile dysfunction medication is the best? Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil) and Levitra (vardenafil ) are the three oral treatments for erectile dysfunction. Sometimes men are confused by which one to choose.  Each one has a similar rate of effectiveness but some work better than others on an individual basis.

Each of these PDE-5 inhibitors relaxes the arteries of the penis allowing the blood flow to create an erection. The function of these drugs is to keep high levels of cGMP in the penis. This is a substance that is produced naturally in the tissue and aids vascular muscular relaxation. PDE-5 inhibitors block PDE-5 which neutralizes the cGMP so that an erection cannot occur. These treatments block or inhibit the PDE-5 in order that the cGMP stays in the penis, allowing for a maintained erection. All three of the approved drugs carry out the same function but have different effects.

Viagra can be purchased in 25mg, 50mg or 100mg dosages. The usual starting dose is 50mg. It should be taken 1 hour before sexual activity and can take anything from 30 minutes to 1 hour to kick in. The effects usually last for approximately 4 hours. Viagra was the first drug approved for erectile dysfunction and it is one of the best known brands in the world so it is a popular choice for many men.

Cialis is available in 10mg and 20mg dosages and the recommended starting dose is 10mg. Cialis is also available in a one a day format but this is quite an expensive way of taking the medication for most people. The half-life of Cialis is much longer than the other two medications. The effects can last from 17 to 36 hours. This does not mean that an erection will last this long but the drug will still be effective upon being stimulated sexually. If one is to experience side effects, then these side effects may last for a long period as well however so this needs to be borne in mind.

Side effects from all three PDE5 inhibitors are similar and can include headaches, facial flushing, back pain and indigestion. Some people have noticed a bluish tinge to their vision while Viagra is in their system but these side effects are not experienced by all men.

Levitra is prescribed in 5mg, 10mg and 20mg doses. Men usually start off on the 10mg dose. Levitra is usually taken between 25 minutes and 1 hour before sexual intercourse takes place and the effects last for roughly 5 hours. A new version of Levitra will be available in November, which melts in the mouth and has an even faster absorption rate.

The drug that will suit an individual best cannot be predicted so trial and error is often the only way to find out which one is going to work best for you. If you have any specific questions about these medications then one of our medical staff will be happy to answer any question that you may have.





 
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