Key takeaways
Tadalafil (Cialis) and vardenafil (Levitra) are both medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), but they have some key differences. Tadalafil can also treat symptoms of an enlarged prostate (BPH), while vardenafil is only for ED. Tadalafil (Cialis) can be taken either as needed or daily, offering more flexibility, whereas vardenafil is taken about an hour before sexual activity. Tadalafil lasts up to 36 hours, providing a longer window for effectiveness compared to vardenafil, which lasts about 5 to 7 hours. Additionally, vardenafil is available as orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) for those who have trouble swallowing, while tadalafil is only available as a tablet. Both medications have common side effects like headaches and can interact with other medications that lower blood pressure.
