After Prostate Cancer Treatment, What Should I Take: Viagra, Levitra, Or Cialis?

NEW YORK, Nov. 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --A variety of medical conditions and treatments can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED). After robotic prostate surgery, it is common for men to experience short-term sexual potency issues. Dr. David Samadi's SMART (Samadi Modified Advanced Robotic Technique) robotic surgery greatly reduces the risk of nerve bundle damage and delivers superior prostate cancer treatment results.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121115/NY13851 )

To facilitate sex after prostate cancer and speed the restoration of natural erections, Dr. Samadi often recommends PDE-5 (phosphodiesterase) inhibitors such as Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis, as a first-line treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Among these three commercially available PDEIs, analysis shows comparable efficacy. Randomized, controlled studies have shown small, but not statistically or clinically significant differences exist among the three drugs.

Q: What are the differences among Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis?

A: These drugs all belong to a class of medication known as phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDEIs) and work by the same mechanism. Choosing one drug over the other depends on their onset of action, duration, contraindications, and other individualized preferences. However, because they are similar, if you are unable to see results with one, it is unlikely that another in the same class would work.

Q: What are the side effects of PEIs?

A: As with all drugs, there are side effects when using PDEIs. Deciding which one is more tolerable is a matter of choice. Examples of reported side effects include back pain with Cialis and light sensitivity with Viagra.

Q. How will my doctor determine which ED medication is right for me?

A: Although PDEIs have similar efficacy, your urologist will consider several factors when recommending ED medication: 1) your preference for or perceptions about a particular PDEI, 2) cost of the treatment, 3) the duration of action or how long the erection is likely to last, 4) your desired frequency for sexual intercourse, and 5) the unique adverse-effect profile.

Following are overviews of these three commonly used ED medications:

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After Prostate Cancer Treatment, What Should I Take: Viagra, Levitra, Or Cialis?