ED Medication Comparison Tool
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Medication Comparison Table
| Drug | Dosage | Onset Time | Duration | Average Cost | Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fildena | 100 mg | 30-60 min | 4-6 hrs | $1.20 | Mild (headache, flushing) |
| Viagra | 50-100 mg | 30-60 min | 4-6 hrs | $30.00 | Mild (headache, flushing) |
| Cialis | 10-20 mg | 15-30 min | Up to 36 hrs | $25.00 | Moderate (back pain, muscle aches) |
| Levitra | 10-20 mg | 15-30 min | 4-5 hrs | $22.00 | Mild (dizziness) |
| Stendra | 100-200 mg | 10-15 min | 6-12 hrs | $35.00 | Low (minimal side effects) |
Looking for an erectile dysfunction (ED) solution that fits your schedule, budget, and health profile? Fildena often shows up in online searches, but there are several other options that might work better for you. This guide breaks down what makes Fildena unique, how it measures up against the most popular alternatives, and which factors you should weigh before deciding.
Key Takeaways
- Fildena contains 100mg of sildenafil, the same active ingredient found in Viagra, but is usually sold at a lower price.
- Onset ranges from 30‑60minutes; duration lasts about 4‑6hours, similar to other sildenafil products.
- Tadalafil (Cialis) works faster for some men and offers up to 36hours of activity.
- Vardenafil (Levitra) and avanafil (Stendra) provide a slightly quicker onset but may cost more per tablet.
- Side‑effect patterns are comparable across PDE5 inhibitors, yet individual tolerance can vary.
What is Fildena?
Fildena is a branded generic version of sildenafil citrate, typically sold in 100mg tablets for oral use. It was introduced to the market in the early 2010s and quickly gained attention for its lower price point compared with the original brand name.
The tablet is taken about an hour before sexual activity and should be used only once per day. Because it contains the same active molecule as Viagra, its efficacy and safety profile are backed by decades of clinical data.
How does it work?
Sildenafil belongs to the class of phosphodiesterase‑5 (PDE5) inhibitors. By blocking the PDE5 enzyme, it helps maintain higher levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the penile tissue, which relaxes smooth muscle and allows blood to fill the corpora cavernosa. The result is a natural erection when sexual stimulation occurs.
Top alternatives to Fildena
Below are the most widely prescribed or purchased ED medicines that share the same mechanism but differ in dosage options, onset speed, and duration.
Viagra is the original brand name for sildenafil citrate, approved by the FDA in 1998. It is commonly available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets.
Cialis contains tadalafil, a PDE5 inhibitor that lasts up to 36hours. Dosage forms include 2.5mg, 5mg (daily use) and 10mg, 20mg as needed.
Levitra is the brand name for vardenafil, offered in 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets. Its onset can be as fast as 15minutes for some users.
Stendra contains avanafil, a newer PDE5 inhibitor. It is marketed for its rapid onset (as quick as 10‑15minutes) and is available in 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg strengths.
Each of these alternatives shares the fundamental PDE5‑inhibition pathway, yet subtle differences in pharmacokinetics lead to distinct user experiences.
Side‑effect profile comparison
All PDE5 inhibitors can cause similar adverse effects, but the frequency and severity may differ among individuals.
- Common across the board: headache, facial flushing, nasal congestion, and mild visual disturbances.
- Sildenafil‑based products (Fildena, Viagra) often report a higher incidence of dyspepsia (upset stomach).
- Tadalafil (Cialis) may lead to back‑pain or muscle aches, especially at the 20mg dose.
- Vardenafil (Levitra) can cause dizziness in a small subset of users.
- Avanafil (Stendra) generally shows the lowest overall rate of side‑effects, likely due to its short half‑life.
People with cardiovascular disease, severe liver impairment, or who take nitrates should avoid all PDE5 inhibitors. Always discuss with a healthcare professional before starting any medication.
Onset, duration, and dosage differences
Understanding how quickly a drug works and how long its effect lasts helps match the medication to your lifestyle.
| Drug | Typical Dose | Onset | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fildena (sildenafil) | 100mg | 30‑60min | 4‑6hrs |
| Viagra (sildenafil) | 50‑100mg | 30‑60min | 4‑6hrs |
| Cialis (tadalafil) | 10‑20mg | 15‑30min | Up to 36hrs |
| Levitra (vardenafil) | 10‑20mg | 15‑30min | 4‑5hrs |
| Stendra (avanafil) | 100‑200mg | 10‑15min | 6‑12hrs |
For spontaneous encounters, a drug with a rapid onset (like Stendra) may be preferred. If you value a longer “window,” Cialis offers the most flexibility.
Cost and availability
Price is a major factor for many men. Below is an approximate per‑tablet cost in US dollars (prices can vary by pharmacy and country).
| Drug | Average Price | Prescription requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Fildena (generic sildenafil) | ≈$1.20 | Prescription or verified online pharmacy |
| Viagra (brand) | ≈$30.00 | Prescription |
| Cialis (brand) | ≈$25.00 | Prescription |
| Levitra (brand) | ≈$22.00 | Prescription |
| Stendra (brand) | ≈$35.00 | Prescription |
Because Fildena is a generic formulation, it typically undercuts the brand‑name options. However, quality and authenticity vary across online sellers, so buying from a reputable pharmacy is essential.
Choosing the right option for you
Use the following checklist to align your priorities with the medication that best fits your needs.
- Budget‑focused: Fildena or other reputable generics.
- Extended activity window: Cialis (daily low‑dose or as‑needed high‑dose).
- Quick spontaneity: Stendra or Levitra.
- Minimal side‑effects: Avanafil (Stendra) often reports the lowest adverse‑event rate.
- Established brand trust: Viagra if you prefer a name‑recognised product.
Regardless of the drug you pick, a medical assessment remains crucial. Conditions such as uncontrolled hypertension, recent heart attack, or severe eye disorders can make PDE5 inhibitors unsafe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fildena the same as Viagra?
Yes. Both contain sildenafil citrate as the active ingredient. The main differences lie in branding, price, and the regulatory pathway used to market the product.
Can I take Fildena with alcohol?
A moderate amount of alcohol is unlikely to cause a problem, but heavy drinking can lower blood pressure and reduce the drug’s effectiveness. It also raises the risk of side‑effects such as dizziness or facial flushing.
How does Cialis differ from Fildena in terms of duration?
Cialis (tadalafil) can remain active for up to 36hours, earning the nickname “the weekend pill.” Fildena’s effect lasts about 4‑6hours, making it better suited for planned, short‑term encounters.
Are there any foods I should avoid when taking Fildena?
A high‑fat meal can slow absorption and delay the onset by up to an hour. For the quickest response, take the tablet on an empty stomach or with a light meal.
What should I do if I miss a dose of a daily Cialis regimen?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s within 12hours of the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed pill and resume your regular schedule to avoid potential side‑effects.
Can I use Fildena if I’m on blood pressure medication?
Some antihypertensives, especially alpha‑blockers, can interact with sildenafil and cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Consult your physician before combining these drugs.
Elijah Mbachu
October 5, 2025 AT 18:40Hey, if budget’s tight, Fildda can be a solid start.
Jessica Davies
October 20, 2025 AT 12:07Honestly, the whole glorification of "generic" options feels like a cheap marketing ploy; while Fildena may appear economical, it lacks the rigorous brand pedigree that guarantees consistency across batches, and one should never overlook the subtle yet crucial pharmacokinetic nuances that differentiate it from its premium counterparts.