When your doctor prescribes a treatment to improve the quality of your erection, he or she often offers you several options available on the market: Viagra , Cialis , Levitra , or Spedra . But how do you choose between these different molecules? What are their differences in terms of effectiveness, duration of action, and adaptation to your health profile? In this article, we will explore in detail the characteristics of these treatments, based on the explanations of Dr. Sébastien Beley , urological surgeon and andrologist, specialist in male sexual disorders . The goal is to help you understand how these medications work, their advantages and disadvantages, and how they can be adapted to your specific needs. Whether you are a newly diagnosed patient or looking to optimize your current treatment, this article will provide you with clear answers, based on medical expertise.
Understanding the mechanism of action of oral treatments for erectile dysfunction
Before comparing the different medications, it is essential to understand their common mode of action. All oral treatments for erectile dysfunction, including Viagra, Cialis , Levitra, and Spedra, work by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) . This enzyme is responsible for the breakdown of a molecule called cyclic GMP , which plays a key role in the physiological process of erection. By inhibiting PDE5, these medications allow for better relaxation of the smooth muscles of the corpora cavernosa of the penis, thus promoting better blood flow and longer-lasting erection maintenance. In other words, these treatments do not cause a spontaneous erection, but facilitate the erectile response in response to sexual stimulation. The main differences between these medications lie in:
- The time it takes for the medicine to start working (onset of effect)
- The strength of the inhibitory effect (intensity of erection)
- The length of time the drug remains effective
Viagra: Fast acting and proven effectiveness
Viagra, or sildenafil , was one of the first treatments available and remains very popular. It is known for its rapid onset of action, especially when taken on an empty stomach, away from alcohol or a high-fat meal. Under these conditions, Viagra can begin to work in about an hour after taking it. Its duration of effectiveness is approximately 6 hours, which allows a sufficient window of time for sexual activity. This duration is generally considered good quality, providing a firm and long-lasting erection. Viagra is often recommended for patients who have difficulty achieving an erection, particularly those with diabetes or heavy smoking , two factors that complicate the response to treatment. Thanks to its potency, it can help overcome these obstacles.
Tips for using Viagra
- Take the medication on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.
- Avoid alcohol and fatty meals before taking.
- Plan to take it about one hour before sexual activity.
- Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor.
Cialis: Long-lasting action and flexible use
Cialis , whose active molecule is tadalafil, is distinguished by its long duration of action. Unlike Viagra, its effectiveness does not depend on taking it on an empty stomach or on the consumption of alcohol or large meals. This provides a certain freedom in its use, without dietary constraints. The duration of effectiveness of Cialis can reach up to 48 hours, or sometimes even longer in some patients. This characteristic has earned it the nickname "the weekend pill", because it allows greater spontaneity in sexual intercourse, without having to precisely plan the intake of the medication. Some patients even report effectiveness that manifests itself the day after taking it, which is a notable advantage for those who want a longer-lasting effect.
Adaptation to health conditions
As with Viagra, the presence of medical conditions such as diabetes or chronic smoking can affect the effectiveness of Cialis. However, overall, its long duration and food tolerance make it a preferred choice for many patients.
Forms of administration of Cialis
- Taken on demand: taken occasionally before sexual activity.
- Daily dose: a low dose (usually 5 mg) taken each day, allowing constant availability of the drug in the body.
This flexibility allows treatment to be adapted to the needs and lifestyle of each patient.
Levitra: Speed and potency comparable to Viagra
Levitra , or vardenafil, is another PDE5 inhibitor, which often has a speed of action similar to or slightly faster than Viagra. Its onset of effectiveness can be less than an hour in some cases, making it an attractive option for those looking for a quick effect. In the laboratory, Levitra has shown equal or slightly higher potency than Viagra, although this difference is not always noticeable in everyday life. Its duration of action is comparable, generally around 6 hours, and sometimes even slightly longer. Levitra can therefore be considered an effective alternative, especially for patients who do not tolerate Viagra well or who wish to try another treatment.
Spedra: A recent arrival with limitations to consider
Spedra , whose active molecule is avanafil, is the newest drug in this category. It is characterized by a very rapid onset of action, sometimes in just a few dozen minutes, which is an advantage for spontaneity. However, despite this speed, its intensity of effect and the duration of its effectiveness are often considered disappointing compared to other treatments. This limitation explains why Spedra is not yet widely prescribed or distributed. It may nevertheless represent an option for certain patients, under medical supervision, particularly those who want a very rapid-acting treatment.
Choosing the right treatment: factors to consider
The choice between Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, or Spedra does not depend solely on the pharmacological characteristics of the drug. It is also crucial to consider:
- Symptoms and severity of erectile dysfunction: Some patients require more potent or longer-acting treatment.
- Lifestyle: frequency of sexual intercourse, desired spontaneity, and eating or drinking habits.
- Comorbidities: diabetes, hypertension, smoking, and other conditions may influence the efficacy and tolerability of the drug.
- Individual tolerance: possible side effects, adverse reactions, or personal preferences.
- Dosage: take once or daily, depending on the prescription and needs.
- Cost and availability: The emergence of generic drugs can make certain treatments more accessible.
On-demand treatment vs. daily treatment
Some patients prefer to take medication only during sexual intercourse (on-demand treatment), while others benefit from taking it daily at a low dose, particularly with Cialis. This choice will depend on the frequency of intercourse and the nature of the erectile dysfunction. Daily treatment may be beneficial for those who want consistent improvement in their erectile function without having to schedule their medication intake.
Importance of medical follow-up and communication with your urologist
Medical monitoring is essential to adjust treatment based on your experience and feelings. It is important to inform your doctor or specialist of any observed effects, whether beneficial or adverse. The doctor will then be able to adapt:
- The dose
- The time of taking
- The choice of medication
Open dialogue helps optimize treatment and improve the quality of sexual life.
Comparative summary of the main drugs for erectile dysfunction
| Medicine | Start of action | Duration of effectiveness | Food influence | Special features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viagra (Sildenafil) | About 1 hour (faster on an empty stomach) | About 6 hours | Yes (slowed down by fatty meals and alcohol) | Effective in difficult patients (diabetes, tobacco) |
| Cialis (Tadalafil) | Variable, not affected by food | Up to 48 hours | No | Long-lasting effect, daily intake possible |
| Levitra (Vardenafil) | Less than an hour | 6 hours or more | Moderate | Potency similar to or greater than Viagra |
| Spedra (Avanafil) | A few dozen minutes | Shorter, moderate effect | Not specified | Fast but limited intensity and duration |
Conclusion: Personalize treatment for a better quality of life
Choosing between Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, or Spedra to treat erectile dysfunction relies on a thorough understanding of pharmacological differences and the patient's individual needs. Each medication has its advantages and limitations, whether in terms of speed of action, duration of effectiveness, or food tolerance. It's important to remember that these treatments are only effective when combined with sexual stimulation and are not suitable for everyone, particularly in cases of certain pathologies or drug interactions. Personalized medical monitoring is essential to adjust the dosage, timing of administration, or even change medication if necessary. Don't hesitate to discuss the effects experienced openly with your urologist or specialist to find the solution best suited to your situation. Finally, the arrival of generic drugs has made these treatments more accessible, facilitating better monitoring and optimal management of erectile dysfunction. For more information and advice on male sexual health, do not hesitate to consult qualified specialists , and follow medical advances in this field.
