Levitra vs. Stendra
See how Levitra and Stendra compare on approved uses, dosing, side effects, and cost.
Key Takeaways
Levitra and Stendra are both PDE5 inhibitors that treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow, but they differ in onset time and generic availability.
Levitra is now sold only as generic vardenafil, which can make it more affordable than brand-only Stendra.
Stendra's avanafil formulation can start working in as little as 15 minutes, faster than Levitra's typical 25 to 60 minute window.
Levitra vs. Stendra Drug Summary
Levitra
Levitra (vardenafil) is a PDE5 inhibitor prescribed for erectile dysfunction in adult men. It comes as an oral tablet taken as needed before sexual activity, usually 25 to 60 minutes ahead, at doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg once daily at most. Only generic vardenafil is currently sold in the US, since the brand-name product was discontinued.
Stendra
Stendra (avanafil) is also a PDE5 inhibitor, approved for erectile dysfunction in adult men. It is an oral tablet taken as needed, with doses of 50 mg, 100 mg, or 200 mg, and it can work in as little as 15 minutes for some men. No generic version is currently available in the US.
Levitra vs. Stendra Side Effects
Levitra
Stendra
Levitra vs. Stendra Dosage
Levitra
Stendra
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 5 mg | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 20 mg | If needed |
| Dose changes | 2 increases | As tolerated |
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 50 mg | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 200 mg | If needed |
| Dose changes | 2 increases | As tolerated |
Levitra
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 5 mg | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 20 mg | If needed |
| Dose changes | 2 increases | As tolerated |
Stendra
| STAGE | DOSE | WHEN |
| Starting dose | 50 mg | At the start |
| Maximum dose | 200 mg | If needed |
| Dose changes | 2 increases | As tolerated |
Levitra vs. Stendra Indications
Levitra
Levitra is FDA-approved to treat erectile dysfunction by helping increase blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. It works across many underlying causes of ED, including those linked to diabetes, prostate surgery, or vascular disease. It is not approved for use in women or children.
Treats erectile dysfunction in adult men
Works across multiple underlying causes of ED
Not approved for women or pediatric patients
Stendra
Stendra is FDA-approved to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men by supporting the blood flow needed for an erection. Its fast onset makes it an option for men who want more flexibility in timing before sexual activity. It is not approved for use in women or children.
Treats erectile dysfunction in adult men
Designed for rapid onset before sexual activity
Not approved for women or pediatric patients
Levitra vs. Stendra Pros and Cons
Levitra
Levitra has been available since 2003 and is now sold only as generic vardenafil, which can make it more affordable for some patients. Like other PDE5 inhibitors, it carries cardiovascular precautions and cannot be combined with nitrates. Coverage varies widely by insurance plan.
Pros
Available only as lower-cost generic vardenafil
Long track record since FDA approval in 2003
Multiple dose strengths for flexible titration
Cons
No branded version currently sold in the US
Typically needs 25 to 60 minutes before it works
Not recommended for patients on dialysis
Stendra
Stendra is the newest PDE5 inhibitor and was designed for faster onset than older options in its class. It remains available only as a brand-name product, and most insurance plans, including Medicare, often do not cover it. It carries similar cardiovascular precautions as other PDE5 inhibitors.
Pros
Can start working in as little as 15 minutes
Newer formulation approved in 2012
Three dose strengths allow tailored dosing
Cons
No generic version currently available
Often excluded from insurance coverage, including Medicare
Not recommended within 6 months of a heart attack or stroke
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