Viagra Comparison: How It Stacks Up Against Other ED Pills

When you're looking for help with Viagra, a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis. Also known as sildenafil, it's one of the most recognized ED medications worldwide. But it’s not the only option—and knowing how it differs from others can save you time, money, and frustration.

Compare it to Levitra, another PDE5 inhibitor with vardenafil as the active ingredient, often faster-acting and less affected by food, and you’ll see small but meaningful differences. Levitra may kick in as fast as 25 minutes for some men, while Viagra usually takes 30 to 60. Cialis, on the other hand, is built for longer-lasting results—up to 36 hours—making it a favorite for those who want flexibility without timing every moment. Then there’s Stendra, a newer option with avanafil, designed to work in as little as 15 minutes and with fewer side effects like facial flushing or headaches. Each of these drugs works the same basic way, but the timing, duration, and side effect profile vary enough to matter.

Cost, availability, and how your body reacts play a big role too. Some men find Viagra causes more stomach upset than Cialis, while others report better results with Levitra after a heavy meal. If you’re on nitrates for heart issues, none of these are safe—so always check with your doctor first. There’s no single "best" ED pill; it’s about matching the drug to your lifestyle, health, and what your body responds to.

Below, you’ll find real side-by-side comparisons of Viagra with its top rivals—Levitra, Cialis, and Stendra—covering onset time, duration, common side effects, cost differences, and even how food or alcohol affects each one. No fluff. Just what you need to decide which one makes the most sense for you.