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Erectile Dysfunction
Cialis, Viagra and Levitra to Treat ED
Currently
there are only three oral drugs approved by the FDA to treat
erectile dysfunction: Cialis, Levitra, and Viagra. All work
by increasing the flow of blood into the penis, so that when
a man is sexually stimulated, he can get an erection.
What's
the Difference Between Cialis, Levitra and Viagra?
Cialis,
Levitra and Viagra work by a similar mechanism to cause erection.
There are subtle differences in how long the drug works and
how quickly it works. Levitra works a little longer than Viagra.
They both take effect in about 30 minutes. With Levitra, the
effects last for about 5 hours. With Viagra, the effects last
4 hours.
According
to some experts, Cialis takes a bit longer to work, but the
effects last for much longer - two-to-three days.
Follow
the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask
your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part that you do
not understand. Take these drugs exactly as directed. Do not
take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed
by your doctor. Do not take these drugs more than once a day.
If
One of these Drugs Isn't Effective for Erectile Dysfunction,
Can I Try Another?
Because
these drugs work the same way, it's unlikely that you'll have
success with one if you've failed to achieve an adequate erection
with the other.
What
Precautions Should I Take Before Taking One of These Drugs?
There
are certain situations in which these drugs may not be safe
to take. Before taking them, tell your doctor:
If you
are allergic to Viagra or any other drugs
About any prescription or nonprescription medications you
are currently taking, including herbal and dietary supplements
If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery
If you take nitroglycerin or a long-acting nitrate to treat
chest pain. The combination of Levitra or Viagra with these
drugs can cause dangerously low blood pressure.
In addition, always follow the directions on your prescription
label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain
any part that you do not understand. Take these drugs exactly
as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more
often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not take these drugs
more than once a day.
What
Are the Side Effects of Cialis, Levitra and Viagra?
Side effects
are not common but they can occur. Side effects can include:
Headache
Upset stomach
Flushing (feeling warm)
Nasal congestion
Changes in vision (Viagra only)
Back pain (with Cialis)
Call your doctor if you experience severe forms of these symptoms
or if they do not go away after 4-8 hours.
Warning
Call your
doctor immediately if you experience any of the following
symptoms:
Rash
Painful erection
Prolonged erection (longer than 4 hours)
Fainting
Chest pain
Itching or burning during urination
How Should These Drugs Be Stored?
These
drugs should be kept in its original container and out of
reach of children. Store them away from excess heat and moisture
(not in the bathroom). Discard any medication that has expired
or is no longer needed.
Reviewed
by the doctors at the Glickman Urological Institute at The
Cleveland Clinic.
Edited
by Charlotte Grayson, MD, WebMD, May 2004
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2004
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