Best Erectile Dysfunction Pills: Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra?

Struggling to perform the way you used to in the bedroom? If you’re having a hard time getting or maintaining an erection, there are proven treatments that can help. Oral medications like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are some of the best erectile dysfunction pills available today. But with multiple options on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.

Let’s break down what each ED medication does, how long it lasts, and what makes them different—so you can feel confident choosing the one that fits your body, lifestyle, and goals.

How to Choose the Best Erectile Dysfunction Pills for You

All three of these medications—Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), and Levitra (vardenafil)—belong to a class of drugs called PDE-5 inhibitors. They work by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused.

They’re all effective, but the best choice depends on things like:

  • How quickly you want it to work
  • How long you want the effects to last
  • Whether you want to plan ahead or keep things spontaneous
  • How your body responds to different medications

Viagra (Sildenafil)

Viagra, also known as sildenafil, is probably the most recognized ED pill thanks to years of TV commercials and that famous “little blue pill” nickname. Approved by the FDA in 1998, it’s used by more than 20 million men every year.

How Long Does Viagra Take to Work?

Viagra starts working in about 30 to 60 minutes, but it works best if taken on an empty stomach. Eating a heavy or fatty meal before taking it can slow absorption and reduce its effectiveness.

How Long Does Viagra Last?

Viagra stays active in the body for about 4 to 6 hours, though this can vary slightly depending on your age, metabolism, and liver or kidney health.

Levitra (Vardenafil)

Levitra, or vardenafil, was approved in 2003 and works very similarly to Viagra. It’s fast-acting and effective, and some men report fewer side effects than with sildenafil.

How Long Does Levitra Take to Work?

Levitra typically kicks in within 15 to 30 minutes, so it’s slightly faster than Viagra. One benefit to know about: it can be taken with food or alcohol in moderation without compromising its effectiveness.

How Long Does Levitra Last?

Like Viagra, Levitra has a 4 to 6-hour window of effectiveness.

Cialis (Tadalafil)

If you’re looking for a longer-lasting option, Cialis (tadalafil) might be your best bet. It’s often called the “weekend pill” because of how long it stays active. Cialis is also FDA-approved to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), so you may get some added urinary benefits if that’s something you deal with.

How Long Does Cialis Take to Work?

Cialis usually starts working in 30 to 60 minutes, but unlike the others, it can be taken with or without food. There’s also a daily low-dose option (5mg) that keeps the medication consistently in your system—perfect for guys who want to skip the planning and just be ready whenever.

How Long Does Cialis Last?

Here’s where Cialis really stands out: its effects can last up to 36 hours. That doesn’t mean you’ll have an erection for 36 hours (don’t worry)—but it does mean the drug is active in your body for that long, allowing for more spontaneity and multiple sexual encounters without needing to re-dose.

Rapid Dissolve ED Pills: Are They Better?

Most traditional ED medications come in a standard tablet with a film coating that’s broken down in the digestive system. But newer rapid dissolve tablets, which Victory Men’s Health offers through our compounding pharmacy, are absorbed through the mucous membranes in your mouth.

This delivery method has some major benefits:

  • Faster onset of action
  • Better absorption (bioavailability)
  • Can be taken with food or drinks
  • Discreet and easy to take, no swallowing required

Studies show many men prefer dissolvable tablets over traditional pills because they’re faster and often more effective. And let’s be honest—who’s really planning sex around an empty stomach?

What If ED Pills Don’t Work?

PDE-5 inhibitors work for roughly 80% of men, but if you’re in the 20% who don’t see the results you’re hoping for, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. We offer several alternative ED treatments designed to target the root of the issue for long-lasting results. Here’s a look at some of our options.

  • Shockwave Therapy (Acoustic Wave Therapy): This non-invasive treatment improves blood flow and helps regenerate penile tissue over time. It’s ideal for men with vascular-related ED or those looking for long-term improvement without medication.
  • Trimix Injections: A powerful combination of three medications, Trimix is injected directly into the penis for near-instant results—even when oral medications haven’t worked. It’s a reliable option for more severe cases of ED.
  • Priapus Shot (P-Shot): This regenerative therapy uses your own blood platelets to stimulate healing and enhance natural erectile function. It’s a cutting-edge option that can help repair and restore damaged tissue.
  • Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): Low testosterone is often overlooked as a cause of ED. If your levels are low, TRT can restore your sex drive, improve erections, and boost energy, mood, and performance overall.

Best Erectile Dysfunction Pills: FAQs

Which ED Pill Works the Fastest?

Levitra tends to have the fastest onset, sometimes working in just 15 minutes. Rapid dissolve versions of sildenafil may also kick in more quickly than standard tablets.

Can I Take ED Medication Daily?

Yes, but this should only be done under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Cialis is available in a daily low-dose form (5mg), which keeps the medication in your system continuously. It allows for spontaneous sex and helps with urinary symptoms from BPH.

What are the Most Common Side Effects of ED Pills?

Mild headaches, flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion are the most common side effects. Back pain may occur with Cialis. These side effects are usually temporary and manageable for most men.

Can I Take ED Pills with Alcohol or Food?

Cialis and Levitra are generally safe to take with food or a moderate amount of alcohol. However, Viagra is most effective on an empty stomach.

What’s the Best Erectile Dysfunction Pill for Long-Lasting Results?

When talking about PDE-5 inhibitors, Cialis wins for the most long-lasting ED medication. It can last up to 36 hours, giving you the flexibility to be intimate when the mood strikes without the pressure to time it perfectly.

Don’t Let ED Hold You Back

Choosing the right erectile dysfunction medication can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it on your own. At Victory Men’s Health, we take the time to get to know you, your health history, and your lifestyle so we can find the solution that works best for your body.

Whether that’s a fast-acting pill, a longer-lasting option, or something more advanced, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to take control of your sexual health? Schedule your consultation today to get personalized support and a plan that works for you.

The Most Effective ED Medication

Dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a tough pill to swallow. It can take a toll on your confidence and put a strain on your relationships. If you’re experiencing symptoms like trouble getting an erection, reduced sexual desire, or noticing your erections aren’t as firm as they used to be, you don’t have to settle for living with it.

There are a handful of effective solutions out there that can help you get back in the game, no matter what’s causing your ED. From tried-and-true medications to cutting-edge therapies, there’s something that can work for you. 

In this guide, our men’s health experts are breaking down the most effective ED medications available today—because every man deserves to feel confident in the bedroom. Let’s find out which option might be the best fit for you.

man holding pill bottle | most effective ED medication | Victory Mens Health

Choosing the Right ED Medication

When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. What worked wonders for your friend might not do the trick for you, and that’s completely normal. Everyone’s body is different, and the underlying causes of ED can vary from one man to another. 

That’s why it’s crucial to work with a healthcare provider who understands the complexities of ED and can help you navigate your options. A specialist can assess factors like your overall health, lifestyle, and the severity of your symptoms. 

The bottom line is that treating ED isn’t just about popping a pill and hoping for the best. It’s about finding the right approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a long-term solution, there’s something for you. Now, let’s break down the most effective ED medications and treatments:

  1. PDE-5 Inhibitors
  2. Trimix Injections
  3. The Priapus Shot (P-shot)
  4. Wave Therapy
  5. Vacuum Pump Devices
  6. Penile Implants

PDE-5 Inhibitors: The First Line of Defense

PDE-5 inhibitors are the most commonly prescribed oral medications for ED. This class of drugs includes well-known names like Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), and Levitra (vardenafil). These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection during sexual activity. We prescribe dissolve tablets in our clinics, as they tend to have better and quicker results for many men due to the bypass of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Who’s it For?

PDE-5 inhibitors are effective for men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. They’re typically the first line of treatment for those who have just started experiencing symptoms. However, they can also be beneficial for men with more severe cases, depending on their overall health and the underlying cause of their ED.

What’s the Process?

Taking a PDE-5 inhibitor is straightforward: you take the pill as needed before sexual activity. Most men will notice the effects within 30 minutes to an hour, although the timing varies depending on the medication. For example: medications like Cialis can be effective for up to 36 hours, so there’s less of a rush. Sexual stimulation is required for these medications to work effectively. 

Trimix Injections: A Potent Solution for Severe Cases

Trimix is an injectable medication that combines three drugs—alprostadil, papaverine, and phentolamine—specifically formulated to treat ED. Unlike oral medications, Trimix is injected directly into the penis, providing a powerful and immediate response.

Who’s it For?

Trimix is great for men who do not respond to oral medications or who experience severe side effects that prevent them from taking them. It’s also an excellent option for individuals with severe ED who need a more reliable, long-term solution.

What’s the Process?

Trimix injections are administered using a small insulin gauge needle, injecting the medication into the side of the shaft near the base of the penis. It’s typically used on an as-needed basis—like oral medications, but with a much higher success rate. Trimix works quickly, usually within 10-15 minutes, so it’s convenient for men who need immediate results.

The Priapus Shot: Regenerating Your Sexual Health

The Priapus Shot, commonly known as the P-shot, is a regenerative therapy that uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) derived from your own blood. The PRP is injected into specific areas of the penis to stimulate tissue growth, improve blood flow, and enhance sexual function.

Who’s it For?

The P-shot is most effective for men with mild to moderate ED and men without ED who want to optimize their sexual performance. If you’re looking for a non-medicinal way to improve your natural erectile function, this is a great choice to consider. The Priapus Shot can also benefit men with severe ED who want to enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.

What’s the Process?

The P-shot procedure involves drawing a small amount of your blood, processing it to isolate the platelet-rich plasma, and then injecting it into the penis. It’s a quick and minimally invasive process with little to no downtime. 

It typically takes a few weeks to start noticing improvements from the P-shot, with full benefits developing over a few months as your body undergoes the repair and healing process.

Wave Therapy: Treating the Root Cause

Wave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis. It targets the root cause of ED by stimulating the growth of new blood vessels and enhancing existing ones.

Who’s it For?

Wave therapy is most effective for men with mild to moderate ED, but it can also help those with moderate or severe ED who are looking to reduce their reliance on medications. It’s especially helpful for men who previously responded well to PDE-5 inhibitors but have seen a decrease in effectiveness over time. However, men without ED can also use wave therapy preventatively to optimize their performance.

What’s the Process?

During wave therapy, a device is used to deliver sound waves to the penis. The procedure is painless, and sessions typically last about 20-30 minutes. We generally recommend multiple sessions for optimal results.

Results from wave therapy can take several weeks to become noticeable, with continued improvement over a few months. The benefits are long-lasting, so it’s a good option for men searching for a more sustainable and effective ED medication.

Vacuum Pump Devices: A Non-Medication Approach

Vacuum pump devices are mechanical tools that help improve blood flow to the penis so you can achieve and maintain an erection. The device consists of a cylinder placed over the penis and a pump that creates a vacuum, drawing blood into the penis.

Who’s it For?

Vacuum pump devices are a great option for men who prefer non-medication treatments or want to supplement other therapies for a higher probability of success. They’re suitable for all levels of ED severity, so it just depends on your preference and the recommendation of your healthcare provider. 

What’s the Process?

To use a vacuum pump device, you start by placing the cylinder over your penis and using the pump to create a vacuum, which increases blood flow to the area. Many of our patients use the vacuum pump as a regular exercise outside of sexual activity to improve blood flow and penile health. 

If you’re using the pump to achieve an erection for intercourse, you would place a constriction ring at the base of the penis after achieving an erection to help maintain it during sexual activity. The results are immediate, with an erection typically occurring within minutes, but it can only be sustained while the constriction ring is in place.

Penile Implants: A Last Resort Option

Penile implants are a surgical solution for men with ED when all other treatment options have failed. This option involves placing a device inside the penis to allow for an erection at your discretion. It’s considered a last resort due to the invasiveness of the procedure and the irreversible nature of the treatment.

Who’s it For?

Penile implants are typically recommended for men with severe ED who have not had success with other treatments. It’s usually reserved for men who have exhausted all non-surgical options and still have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

What’s the Process?

The implant procedure is performed by a urologist under anesthesia. There are two main types of penile implants: inflatable and malleable. Inflatable implants provide the most natural look and feel, while malleable implants are always firm but can be adjusted manually for intercourse.

While we do not provide penile implants in our clinics, if none of our other ED treatments work for you, we can refer you to a qualified urologist who specializes in this surgical solution.

What Our Patients Ask Us About the Most Effective ED Medications… 

What’s the Most Effective Erectile Dysfunction Drug?

The “most effective” ED drug really depends on the individual. For many men, PDE-5 inhibitors like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are go-to options because they’re easy to use and work well for a lot of people. 

However, one of our most popular options is our “combo pill,” a dissolvable tablet that combines sildenafil and tadalafil. This gives you the best of both worlds—the extended effectiveness of tadalafil along with the more immediate action of sildenafil, offering a versatile solution for a range of situations.

But if oral meds don’t cut it for you, options like Trimix injections or the P-shot might be a better fit. The trick is to find what works best for you, and that’s where a consultation with one of our healthcare providers comes in handy.

How Do You Make ED Medications Work Better?

If you’re looking to get the most out of your ED meds, there are a few things you can do. First off, make sure you’re following your doctor’s advice on how and when to take them—timing can be everything. 

Tackling underlying health concerns like high blood pressure or diabetes can also be a huge help, as those issues can interfere with how well the medication works. Keep in mind that eating a large meal and/or drinking alcohol beforehand can make it harder to get good results from ED medications.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of lifestyle tweaks! Losing weight, staying active, and managing stress can make a big difference. Sometimes, pairing ED medication with other treatments like wave therapy can also give you that extra boost you’re looking for.

How Do You Treat ED Without Medication?

There are several ways to tackle ED without medication, like wave therapy or a vacuum pump device. You can also try natural methods of improving erectile dysfunction, like maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, keeping stress in check, and quitting smoking

Can Wave Therapy Replace ED Medications? 

For some men, wave therapy may reduce or eliminate the need for ED medications, particularly if they have mild to moderate ED. However, it may not be as effective for severe cases on its own. During your consultation, we’ll assess a variety of factors to determine the best course of action for your unique needs. 

Is It Safe to Combine Different ED Treatments? 

Combining treatments, such as using PDE-5 inhibitors in conjunction with wave therapy or the P-shot, can be effective, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe based on your specific situation.

One protocol we’ve seen great success with involves 6-12 sessions of wave therapy (depending on the severity of your ED), followed by 1-2 P-Shot procedures, and finishing with a regular vacuum pump exercise regimen for 6 weeks. 

Each of these treatments has proven efficacy on its own, but when used together in this order, the outcomes are even more effective. 

Let’s Kick ED to the Curb—For Good.

Erectile dysfunction doesn’t have to control your life. We offer the most effective ED medications available in our clinics, from oral medications to innovative therapies like the P-shot and wave therapy. At Victory Men’s Health, we’re committed to helping you find the best treatment option tailored to your needs. 

Whether you’re dealing with ED, low libido, weight loss challenges, or hormone imbalances, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way. 
Contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our clinics in Illinois or Missouri, or take advantage of our telehealth services if you prefer the convenience of care from home. Let’s kick ED to the curb and help you regain confidence in your health!