ED Medication Comparison Tool
Find Your Best ED Medication Match
Based on your priorities and health factors, we'll help you compare Levitra Soft with other popular ED medications.
Your Medication Recommendation
When you’re dealing with erectile dysfunction, finding the right medication isn’t just about effectiveness-it’s about how it fits your life. Levitra Soft (vardenafil) is one option, but it’s not the only one. If you’ve been considering it, you’re probably wondering how it stacks up against Cialis, Viagra, or even newer options like Stendra. Let’s cut through the noise and compare what actually matters: how fast they work, how long they last, side effects, and real-world usability.
What is Levitra Soft (Vardenafil)?
Levitra Soft is a tablet form of vardenafil, designed to dissolve under the tongue for faster absorption. It’s used to treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Unlike regular Levitra pills that you swallow, Levitra Soft doesn’t need water and starts working in as little as 15 minutes for some men. The standard dose is 10 mg, but doctors may adjust it to 5 mg or 20 mg based on your response and health.
It’s not a magic pill-you still need sexual arousal for it to work. And while it’s effective for many, it doesn’t work for everyone. About 75% of men with ED see improvement with vardenafil, according to clinical trials published in the Journal of Urology. But how does it compare to the others?
Levitra Soft vs Viagra (Sildenafil)
Viagra is the most well-known ED drug, but it’s not always the best choice. Sildenafil, the active ingredient, takes about 30 to 60 minutes to kick in-slower than Levitra Soft. It also needs to be taken on an empty stomach or with a light meal. A heavy, fatty meal can delay its effect by up to an hour.
Levitra Soft, on the other hand, works just as well with food. That’s a big plus if you’re planning a meal and intimacy together. Both drugs last about 4 to 5 hours, but Levitra Soft often starts faster and may cause fewer visual side effects like blue-tinted vision, which some men report with Viagra.
Side effects are similar: headache, flushing, nasal congestion, upset stomach. But studies show vardenafil causes less facial flushing and dizziness than sildenafil in direct comparisons. If you’ve had trouble with Viagra’s side effects, Levitra Soft could be a smoother alternative.
Levitra Soft vs Cialis (Tadalafil)
Cialis is the long-distance runner of ED medications. Its active ingredient, tadalafil, lasts up to 36 hours-sometimes called the "weekend pill." That’s great if you want flexibility without timing your dose around a date. But that long duration also means side effects can stick around longer.
Levitra Soft is a sprinter. It works fast and fades faster. If you don’t want to feel the drug lingering in your system for days, or if you’re sensitive to side effects like back pain or muscle aches (common with Cialis), Levitra Soft gives you control over timing.
Also, Cialis is available in daily low-dose versions (2.5 mg or 5 mg), which can help men who want ongoing improvement without planning ahead. Levitra Soft doesn’t have a daily version. So if you’re looking for spontaneous, everyday function, Cialis might suit you better. But if you prefer taking something only when you need it-fast and clean-Levitra Soft wins.
Levitra Soft vs Stendra (Avanafil)
Stendra is the new kid on the block. It’s the fastest-acting ED drug on the market, with some men reporting results in under 15 minutes. It also has a lower risk of side effects like dizziness and nasal congestion compared to older drugs.
But here’s the catch: Stendra is more expensive and less widely available. In Australia, it’s not always stocked in local pharmacies without a special order. Levitra Soft, by contrast, is more accessible and often priced lower, especially as a generic.
Stendra might be ideal if speed is your top priority and cost isn’t an issue. But for most men, Levitra Soft delivers nearly the same speed at a better price point and wider availability.
What about generics?
Vardenafil is available as a generic, and so are sildenafil and tadalafil. Generic Levitra Soft (vardenafil) works the same as the brand name-it’s just cheaper. Many pharmacies in Sydney stock generic vardenafil tablets or orally disintegrating forms. The FDA and TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) require generics to meet the same safety and effectiveness standards.
Some men save up to 70% by switching from brand-name Levitra Soft to generic vardenafil. The only difference? The pill’s color, shape, or packaging. The active ingredient is identical. Always check the label for the correct dosage and make sure you’re buying from a licensed pharmacy.
Who should avoid these medications?
No ED drug is safe for everyone. If you take nitrates for heart disease-like nitroglycerin for angina-you must not use any of these medications. Combining them can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Men with severe liver or kidney disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a history of stroke or heart attack in the past six months should talk to their doctor before starting any ED treatment.
Also, avoid mixing these drugs with alcohol. While a small amount might be okay, heavy drinking increases side effects like dizziness, low blood pressure, and drowsiness. It can also make the medication less effective.
Real-world tips: What works best in practice?
Here’s what men in Sydney and around Australia are telling their doctors:
- If you want speed and don’t mind timing it right: Levitra Soft is a solid pick.
- If you want flexibility and don’t mind longer-lasting effects: Cialis gives you more room.
- If you’ve had bad reactions to Viagra: Levitra Soft often causes fewer visual side effects.
- If you’re on a budget: Generic vardenafil is just as effective and costs less.
- If you want the absolute fastest onset and can afford it: Stendra wins-but availability is limited.
One man I spoke with, 58, switched from Viagra to generic Levitra Soft after his doctor suggested it. "I used to have to plan dinner around my pill. With Levitra Soft, I just popped it before bed and had no issues the next day. No blue tint, no stomach upset. It just worked."
How to choose the right one for you
There’s no single "best" ED medication. The right one depends on your body, your lifestyle, and your goals.
Ask yourself:
- Do I need it to work fast, or can I plan ahead?
- Do I want it to last a few hours or up to a day?
- Have I had side effects with other drugs?
- Is cost a factor?
- Do I take other medications, especially for heart conditions?
Don’t guess. Talk to your doctor. Bring up all your options. They can help you weigh the pros and cons based on your medical history.
And remember: ED is often a sign of something else-like high blood pressure, diabetes, or stress. Treating the symptom is important, but so is understanding the root cause. Your doctor might recommend lifestyle changes, blood tests, or even counseling alongside medication.
Can I take Levitra Soft every day?
No, Levitra Soft is not designed for daily use. It’s meant to be taken as needed, usually no more than once per day. If you want daily treatment for ED, ask your doctor about Cialis (tadalafil) in low daily doses, which is approved for that purpose.
Is Levitra Soft stronger than Viagra?
Neither is "stronger"-they work differently. Levitra Soft (vardenafil) tends to work faster and is less affected by food than Viagra (sildenafil). Some men find it more effective for them personally, but clinical studies show similar success rates. Effectiveness depends on your body, not the drug’s label.
Does Levitra Soft cause heart problems?
Levitra Soft itself doesn’t cause heart problems, but it can be dangerous if you have certain heart conditions or take nitrates. It lowers blood pressure slightly, which can be risky if your heart is already compromised. Always tell your doctor about your full medical history before starting any ED medication.
Can I split a Levitra Soft tablet?
Levitra Soft tablets are designed to dissolve under the tongue and are not meant to be split. If you need a lower dose, ask your doctor for a 5 mg tablet instead. Splitting tablets can lead to inaccurate dosing and reduce effectiveness.
How soon can I eat after taking Levitra Soft?
You can eat right after taking Levitra Soft. Unlike Viagra, it’s not affected by food. In fact, you can take it before or after a meal without worrying about delays in how fast it works.
Next steps: What to do now
If you’re considering Levitra Soft or another ED medication, don’t wait. Start by talking to your doctor or a pharmacist. Bring a list of all your current medications, even over-the-counter ones. Ask about generic options-they’re just as safe and often much cheaper.
Also, consider your overall health. Are you sleeping well? Exercising? Managing stress? ED often improves when you improve your lifestyle. Medication helps, but it’s not the whole solution.
And if you’re worried about the cost or availability-ask your pharmacist. Many Australian pharmacies offer price-matching or discount programs for generic ED drugs. You don’t need to pay full price for something that works.