ED Medication Comparison Tool
Analysis Results
Medication Comparison Table
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Dosage | Onset Time | Duration | Price/Tab (USD) | Prescription? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ManForce | Sildenafil citrate | 100 mg | 30-60 min | 4-6 hrs | $1.80 | OTC (in select regions) |
| Viagra | Sildenafil citrate | 25-100 mg | 30-60 min | 4-6 hrs | $2.50 | Prescription |
| Cialis | Tadalafil | 10-20 mg | 30-120 min | Up to 36 hrs | $3.20 | Prescription |
| Levitra | Vardenafil | 10-20 mg | 15-30 min | 4-5 hrs | $2.80 | Prescription |
| Stendra | Avanafil | 100-200 mg | 15-30 min | 6-12 hrs | $3.60 | Prescription |
| L-Arginine (Supplement) | Amino acid | 2-5 g daily | Varies (days-weeks) | Variable | $0.20 per dose | OTC |
| Yohimbine (Herbal) | Alkaloid from bark | 5-10 mg | 30-60 min | 4-6 hrs | $0.25 per dose | OTC |
When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction, ManForce is a branded version of sildenafil citrate, the same active ingredient found in many other ED drugs. If you’ve tried a pill once or twice and wonder whether ManForce is worth the extra cost, you’re not alone. Below you’ll find a side‑by‑side look at the most common alternatives, practical tips for choosing the right product, and a quick cheat‑sheet to keep on hand.
Quick Summary
- ManForce delivers 100mg of sildenafil per tablet - the highest dose available without a prescription in many markets.
- Viagra is the original brand name for sildenafil, usually sold at 25-100mg doses.
- Cialis (tadalafil) works longer (up to 36hours) but costs more per tablet.
- Levitra (vardenafil) offers a slightly faster onset (30minutes) but shares similar side‑effects.
- Stendra (avanafil) is the newest entrant, marketed for a rapid 15‑minute effect.
- Herbal supplements such as L‑arginine and yohimbine may help mild cases but lack robust clinical backing.
Why the Comparison Matters
Choosing an ED medication isn’t just about brand name. You need to balance effectiveness, onset time, duration, side‑effects, and price. A clear comparison helps you avoid costly trial‑and‑error and lets you pick a pill that fits your lifestyle.
Key Comparison Criteria
We measured each drug on six dimensions that matter most to users:
- Active ingredient & dosage - how much of the chemical you actually get.
- Onset of action - minutes after taking the pill before you notice an effect.
- Duration - how long the erectile response can be maintained.
- Typical price per tablet (USD) - based on 2025 market averages.
- Common side‑effects - headache, flushing, visual changes, etc.
- Prescription requirement - over‑the‑counter (OTC) vs prescription‑only.
Comparison Table
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Typical Dose | Onset | Duration | Price/Tablet (USD) | Prescription? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ManForce | Sildenafil citrate | 100mg | 30‑60min | 4‑6hrs | $1.80 | OTC (in select regions) |
| Viagra | Sildenafil citrate | 25‑100mg | 30‑60min | 4‑6hrs | $2.50 | Prescription |
| Cialis | Tadalafil | 10‑20mg | 30‑120min | Up to 36hrs | $3.20 | Prescription |
| Levitra | Vardenafil | 10‑20mg | 15‑30min | 4‑5hrs | $2.80 | Prescription |
| Stendra | Avanafil | 100‑200mg | 15‑30min | 6‑12hrs | $3.60 | Prescription |
| L‑Arginine (supplement) | Amino acid | 2‑5g daily | Varies (days‑weeks) | Variable | $0.20 per dose | OTC |
| Yohimbine (herbal) | Alkaloid from bark | 5‑10mg | 30‑60min | 4‑6hrs | $0.25 per dose | OTC |
Deep Dive Into Each Option
ManForce packs the highest OTC dose of sildenafil at 100mg, which can be handy for men who found lower doses ineffective. Because it’s an OTC brand in some countries, you can buy it without a doctor’s visit, but you still need to screen for contraindications (e.g., nitrate medications).
Viagra is the original brand that made sildenafil famous. Its price is slightly higher due to brand premium, but you can get the same effect in a generic form for less. Prescription is required in the U.S. and many EU nations.
Cialis contains tadalafil, which lives much longer in the body. It’s the go‑to for “weekend‑ready” users who want spontaneity. The downside: a higher cost per tablet and a slightly longer wait for the first effect.
Levitra (vardenafil) works a bit faster than sildenafil and can be taken with a light meal. It’s a solid middle‑ground if you want a quick kick without moving to newer drugs.
Stendra (avanafil) is marketed for a 15‑minute onset, making it attractive for impulsive moments. Its short‑acting profile means less lingering side‑effects, but insurance coverage can be limited.
For men who prefer a natural route, L‑Arginine boosts nitric oxide production, which is the same pathway sildenafil exploits. Clinical data show modest improvements when combined with a healthy diet and exercise, but the effect alone is often insufficient for moderate‑to‑severe ED.
Yohimbine has been used for decades as an herbal aphrodisiac. Some studies report a 10‑15% improvement in erectile rigidity, but the supplement carries risks of anxiety and elevated blood pressure, especially at higher doses.
How to Choose the Right One for You
- Severity of ED: If you need a powerful, fast‑acting solution, start with 100mg ManForce or Stendra.
- Timing flexibility: Want a pill that lasts all day? Cialis is the clear winner.
- Budget constraints: Generic sildenafil (often sold as “sildenafil citrate”) costs the least per dose, making it a cost‑effective alternative to ManForce.
- Medical history: Those on nitrates, uncontrolled hypertension, or with certain heart conditions should avoid any PDE‑5 inhibitor and discuss alternatives with a doctor.
- Preference for OTC: ManForce and L‑arginine are available without a prescription in many markets, giving you immediate access.
Potential Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Even the best drug can backfire if you ignore basic guidelines.
- Take on an empty stomach for sildenafil‑based pills. Heavy meals, especially high‑fat foods, can delay onset by up to 2hours.
- Don’t double‑dose. If the first tablet doesn’t work, wait at least 24hours before trying again.
- Watch for interactions. Nitrates (often prescribed for chest pain) can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure when combined with any PDE‑5 inhibitor.
- Stay hydrated. Dehydration can amplify side‑effects like headache and flushing.
- Consult a physician if you experience prolonged erections (priapism) lasting more than 4hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ManForce really an OTC drug?
In several Asian and Middle‑Eastern markets, ManForce is sold without a prescription at the 100mg dosage. In the U.S. and most of Europe, it still requires a doctor’s approval because of its high dose.
Can I take ManForce with alcohol?
A small amount of alcohol (one‑two drinks) usually won’t affect the pill, but heavy drinking can increase the risk of dizziness and lower blood pressure. It’s safest to keep alcohol moderate.
How does ManForce compare to generic sildenafil?
Chemically they’re identical. The main differences are branding, price, and availability. ManForce often costs a bit more because of packaging and marketing, but the 100mg dose can be convenient for those who need the maximum strength.
Is it safe to combine a supplement like L‑Arginine with ManForce?
Yes, most doctors consider it safe because L‑Arginine works upstream of the nitric‑oxide pathway. However, high doses (above 6g) may cause stomach upset, so start low and see how you feel.
What should I do if I get a painful erection?
Seek medical help immediately. A prolonged erection lasting more than 4hours (priapism) can damage tissue. Prompt treatment usually involves a cold compress and, in some cases, an injection to relax the muscle.
Bottom Line
ManForce offers a powerful, convenient OTC option for men who need the full 100mg dose of sildenafil. If price is a bigger concern, generic sildenafil provides the same chemistry at a lower cost. For those who value a longer window, Cialis is the clear choice, while Stendra shines for rapid action. Herbal supplements can complement but shouldn’t replace prescription‑grade drugs for moderate‑to‑severe erectile dysfunction. Always check with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen, especially if you have cardiovascular issues or take other medications.
While the tabular breakdown is exhaustive, the omission of a side‑effect frequency column diminishes its clinical utility. Moreover, the reliance on price per tablet without regional insurance considerations may mislead readers. A more nuanced discussion of contraindications would elevate the analysis.