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Home > Select a Medical Service > Center for Sexual Function

More on Levitra and Cialis


LEVITRA

Levitra is an FDA-approved oral prescription medication for the treatment of Erectile dysfunction in men. It is available in 2.5-mg, 5-mg, 10-mg and 20-mg tablets, and is taken only when needed. Take Levitra no more than once daily. Levitra helps increase blood flow to the penis, and therefore, may help men with ED achieve and maintain an erection.

DO NOT TAKE LEVITRA IF you are taking nitrates (a type of medication for relief of chest pain) or alpha-blockers. The most common side effects of Levitra include headache, redness and warmth around the face (flushing), stuffy nose or heartburn. Levitra should be taken one hour before eating, and users should avoid high-fat meals to insure maximum absorption. It has the same half-life (four hours) and window of opportunity (six hours) as Viagra.

CIALIS

Cialis has been shown to improve erectile function in most men, including those with mild, moderate and severe ED. You can take Cialis in advance, so you and your partner can take your time and let an intimate moment develop naturally. As opposed to Levitra and Viagra-both of which work for up to six hours–Cialis works for up to 36 hours in most men. In addition, you don't need to plan around meals or avoid high-fat foods. You should not, however, drink alcohol in excess while taking Cialis.

The most common side effects of Cialis are headache, upset stomach, back pain and muscle aches. Flushing, or redness and warmth around the face, is rare. The side effects may last longer than those of Viagra and Levitra due to Cialis's longer half-life of 17.5 hours. Cialis should not be taken if you are on nitrates or alpha-blockers, except Flomax 0.4 mg (must be taken four to six hours before or after Cialis).

   

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