ED Medication Selection Guide
Find Your Best ED Medication
Answer a few questions to determine which ED medication might work best for your situation.
When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction (ED), Levitra Super Active is a popular choice. Its active ingredient, Vardenafil, promises a faster onset and a slightly longer window than some older pills. But how does it really stack up against the big names-Viagra, Cialis and the newer Stendra? This guide walks you through the science, the practical differences, and the situations where each drug might be the better fit.
How Levitra Super Active Works
Levitra Super Active belongs to the phosphodiesterase‑5 (PDE5) inhibitor class. By blocking the PDE5 enzyme, it helps keep cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels high, which relaxes the smooth muscle in the penis and allows blood to fill the corpora cavernosa. The ‘Super Active’ label means the tablet is formulated for a quicker absorption rate, usually kicking in within 15‑30 minutes when taken on an empty stomach.
Key Comparison Factors
Before diving into numbers, it helps to line up the criteria most men care about when picking an ED pill:
- Onset of action - how fast the drug starts working.
- Peak effectiveness - the window when erection quality is highest.
- Duration - how long the effect lasts.
- Dosage flexibility - whether you can adjust the dose.
- Food interactions - if meals slow down absorption.
- Side‑effect profile - common and serious adverse events.
- Cost in Australia - typical price range for a pack of 4‑8 tablets.
All the drugs we’ll compare share the PDE5 mechanism, but slight chemical differences create the variation you see in the table below.
Side‑by‑Side Comparison Table
| Drug | Active ingredient | Typical dose (mg) | Onset | Peak window | Duration | Food impact | Common side‑effects | Price (AU$ per 4 tablets) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levitra Super Active | Vardenafil | 10‑20 | 15‑30 min (fast‑acting) | 1‑2 h | 4‑6 h | High‑fat meals can delay onset by ~30 min | Headache, flushing, nasal congestion | 120‑150 |
| Viagra | Sildenafil | 25‑100 | 30‑60 min | 1‑2 h | 4‑5 h | Heavy meals can push onset >60 min | Headache, dyspepsia, visual changes | 90‑120 |
| Cialis | Tadalafil | 5‑20 | 30‑45 min | 2‑3 h | Up to 36 h ("the weekend pill") | Minimal food effect | Back pain, muscle aches, indigestion | 130‑170 |
| Stendra | Avanafil | 50‑200 | 15 min (fastest) | 1‑1.5 h | 6‑12 h | High‑fat meals have minor effect | Headache, flushing, nasal stuffiness | 150‑190 |
Who Might Prefer Levitra Super Active?
If you’ve tried other pills and found the wait too long, the quick‑onset profile of Levitra Super Active can be a game‑changer. Men who:
- Need a reliable effect within half an hour.
- Prefer a dosing window that’s not as long as Cialis but longer than Viagra.
- Don’t have severe cardiovascular issues (all PDE5 inhibitors share contraindications).
- Are comfortable adjusting the dose between 10 mg and 20 mg.
Because the tablet dissolves faster, it can be taken with a light snack-just avoid a greasy steak right before you plan to be intimate.
Overview of the Alternatives
Viagra (sildenafil) was the pioneer PDE5 blocker, launched in 1998. Its reputation for reliability is solid, but the 30‑minute to 1‑hour onset can feel sluggish for spontaneous plans. It’s also the most price‑sensitive option in Australia, especially with generic versions.
Cialis (tadalafil) shines with its 36‑hour window, letting couples skip the clock entirely. However, that same longevity means a higher chance of lingering side‑effects like back pain. Its slower onset (30‑45 minutes) is still quicker than Viagra for many users.
Stendra (avanafil) entered the market in 2012 and touts the fastest onset-about 15 minutes for many men. The trade‑off is a higher price tag and limited availability in some pharmacies. Its duration sits between Levitra and Viagra, making it a solid “quick‑and‑lasting” hybrid.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Drug | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Levitra Super Active | Fast onset (15‑30 min), moderate duration (4‑6 h), flexible dosing. | Food can delay effect; price higher than generic Viagra. |
| Viagra | Well‑studied, widely available, cheaper generic options. | Slower onset, shorter window, visual disturbances in some users. |
| Cialis | Longest duration (up to 36 h), minimal food impact. | Potential back‑pain, less “instant” feel, higher cost for daily low‑dose version. |
| Stendra | Fastest onset, good for spontaneous activity, fewer food restrictions. | Highest price, limited insurance coverage, newer with less long‑term data. |
Choosing the Right Option for You
Think of the decision as a simple decision tree:
- If you need speed above all, Stendra or Levitra Super Active are the top picks. Stendra wins on pure speed, while Levitra offers a bit more flexibility in dosing.
- If you value long‑lasting coverage for weekend plans, Cialis is unmatched.
- If you want a tried‑and‑true, budget‑friendly option, Viagra (especially generic) does the job.
- Consider health factors: men on nitrates, severe heart disease, or low blood pressure should avoid all PDE5 inhibitors and consult a doctor first.
Ultimately, a short trial under medical supervision-starting with the lowest recommended dose-helps you gauge comfort, side‑effects, and timing. Many doctors in Canberra and across Australia will prescribe a starter pack of 4 tablets to let you test the waters.
FAQs
How quickly does Levitra Super Active work?
Most men feel an effect within 15‑30 minutes if taken on an empty stomach. A light snack won’t ruin the response, but a heavy, fatty meal can add 20‑30 minutes.
Can I take Levitra Super Active with alcohol?
Occasional moderate drinking (1-2 drinks) is generally safe, but excessive alcohol can blunt the drug’s effectiveness and increase the risk of low blood pressure.
Is Levitra Super Active safer than Viagra?
Both share the same safety profile because they belong to the same drug class. Individual tolerance varies, so what feels “safer” often depends on personal side‑effect experience.
What should I do if I miss my dose?
These medications are taken only as needed, not on a strict schedule. If you don’t feel the effect, wait at least 24 hours before taking another dose to avoid accumulation.
Do the alternatives work for men with diabetes?
Yes, PDE5 inhibitors-including Levitra, Viagra, Cialis, and Stendra-are effective for many men with diabetes, though response rates can be slightly lower. A doctor may start with a lower dose and adjust as needed.
Choosing an ED medication is personal, but armed with the facts above you can have a clear conversation with your GP and decide whether Levitra Super Active or one of its rivals fits your lifestyle best.
