Frequently Asked Questions about:
New Impotence Treatments

Note:  Information provided below is intended as a source of information and a guide.  For specific details about your own health, speak to  your doctor. 

(Revised 12/15/03)

Answer: Doctors now have three pills –Viagra, Levitra and Cialis-to prescribe for their male patients who suffer from erectile dysfunction.

All pills work to allow men to achieve an erection in response to sexual stimulation and all have essentially the same side effect profile. So what’s different?

Viagra and Levitra are very similar in structure and action. Both are most effective when taken on an empty stomach less effective when taken with alcohol-start to work within 30 minutes to one hour and remain effective for up to 4-5 hours after a single dose.

Cialis is equally effective when taken on a full or empty stomach with or without alcohol -starts to work within 16 minutes and may be effective for up to 36 hours.  This means that for men who take Cialis the window of opportunity to have sex is longer allowing for a more relaxed and natural attitude towards sex. 

Men even in their 70’s describe their sexual function after Cialis as more natural and closer to the sexual function they were accustomed to in their 20’s.

Men who have heart disease and take Nitrates should not take either Viagra, Levitra or Cialis. Some men use alpha blockers doxazosin (Cardura) or terazosin (Hytrin) to prevent frequent trips to the bathroom at night.  These medications also lower blood pressure and should not be used with Viagra, Levitra or Cialis. Another alpha blocker tamsulosin (Flomax) has less of a blood pressure lowering effect and can be use safely in conjunction with Cialis.

Before considering any of these therapies speak with your doctor.  He/she knows you best and can help you decide what treatment will be best for you.