ED Drug Comparison Tool
Select two medications and click "Compare" to view their attributes side-by-side.
Attribute | Malegra FXT | Viagra | Cialis | Levitra | Stendra |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Active Ingredients | Sildenafil 50mg + Fluoxetine 20mg | Sildenafil 25-100mg | Tadalafil 2.5-20mg | Vardenafil 10-20mg | Avanafil 50-200mg |
Primary Use | ED + mild-moderate depression | ED only | ED, BPH | ED only | ED only |
Typical Dose | One tablet before sex | One tablet before sex | 10mg daily or 20mg as needed | One tablet before sex | One tablet before sex |
Onset Time | 30-60 min (sildenafil) | 30-60 min | 30-120 min | 25-60 min | 15-30 min |
Duration | 4-5 hrs (sildenafil); fluoxetine builds over weeks | 4-5 hrs | Up to 36 hrs | 4-5 hrs | 4-6 hrs |
Common Side Effects | Headache, flushing, nausea, insomnia | Headache, dyspepsia, visual changes | Back pain, muscle aches, flushing | Headache, dizziness, rash | Headache, nasal congestion, back pain |
US Price (per pill) | $2-$4 | $1-$3 | $1.5-$4 | $1-$3.5 | $2-$5 |
Quick Take
- Malegra FXT pairs sildenafil (ED) with fluoxetine (antidepressant) in one pill.
- It works fast (30‑60min) and lasts about 4‑5hours, but fluoxetine can delay onset.
- Common alternatives are single‑ingredient PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, Stendra) or separate prescriptions.
- Choose Malegra FXT if you need both ED relief and mood support in a single dose.
- Consider cost, side‑effect profile, and any existing depression treatment before deciding.
What is Malegra FXT?
Malegra FXT is a fixed‑dose combo that contains 50mg of sildenafil and 20mg of fluoxetine. The tablet is marketed for men who experience erectile dysfunction (ED) alongside mild to moderate depression or anxiety. By bundling a phosphodiesterase‑5 (PDE5) inhibitor with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), the drug aims to tackle two problems with one prescription.
How does the sildenafil‑fluoxetine combo work?
Sildenafil, the active ingredient in many ED pills, blocks the enzyme PDE5, allowing more blood to flow into the penis during sexual arousal. Fluoxetine, a classic SSRI, increases the level of serotonin in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety that often interferes with sexual performance.
When taken together, the two compounds act on different pathways: one on the vasculature, the other on the central nervous system. In practice, many users notice the erection‑boosting effect of sildenafil within an hour, while the mood‑lifting benefits of fluoxetine may take a few days to become noticeable. Because fluoxetine has a long half‑life, steady‑state levels build up over 1‑2weeks, so the combo is usually prescribed for ongoing use rather than occasional “as‑needed” dosing.
Who might need Malegra FXT?
If you’ve been diagnosed with depression or chronic anxiety and also struggle with getting or keeping an erection, your doctor might suggest a single‑pill solution. Men who prefer fewer prescriptions, want to avoid syncing two separate dosing schedules, or have trouble remembering to take an antidepressant daily can benefit from the combo.
It’s not a fit for everyone. People who are on other SSRIs, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or who have severe heart conditions should discuss alternatives, because drug interactions can raise the risk of side effects.
Main alternatives to Malegra FXT
Below are the most common options you’ll see on the market.
- Viagra - the original sildenafil brand, taken alone for ED.
- Cialis - contains tadalafil, offers a longer window (up to 36hours).
- Levitra - uses vardenafil, similar onset to Viagra but slightly stronger.
- Stendra - avanafil, fastest onset (as quick as 15minutes).
- Separate fluoxetine prescription - taken daily, usually 20‑40mg, targets depression independently of ED meds.
- Non‑pharma approaches - counseling, lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises.

Side‑by‑side comparison
Product | Active ingredient(s) | Primary use | Typical dose | Onset | Duration | Common side effects | US price (per pill) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Malegra FXT | Sildenafil 50mg + Fluoxetine 20mg | ED + mild‑moderate depression | One tablet before sex | 30‑60min (sildenafil) | 4‑5hrs (sildenafil); fluoxetine builds over weeks | Headache, flushing, nausea, insomnia | $2‑$4 |
Viagra | Sildenafil 25‑100mg | ED only | One tablet before sex | 30‑60min | 4‑5hrs | Headache, dyspepsia, visual changes | $1‑$3 |
Cialis | Tadalafil 2.5‑20mg | ED, BPH | 10mg daily or 20mg as needed | 30‑120min | Up to 36hrs | Back pain, muscle aches, flushing | $1.5‑$4 |
Levitra | Vardenafil 10‑20mg | ED only | One tablet before sex | 25‑60min | 4‑5hrs | Headache, dizziness, rash | $1‑$3.5 |
Stendra | Avanafil 50‑200mg | ED only | One tablet before sex | 15‑30min | 4‑6hrs | Headache, nasal congestion, back pain | $2‑$5 |
Fluoxetine alone | Fluoxetine 20‑40mg | Depression, OCD, anxiety | One capsule daily | 1‑2weeks for mood effect | Several weeks steady state | Insomnia, sexual dysfunction, GI upset | $0.10‑$0.30 |
Decision criteria: what matters most?
- Speed of action - If you need a quick response, Stendra or a higher dose of sildenafil may win.
- Duration of effect - Cialis shines for spontaneous plans; Malegra FXT offers the typical 4‑5‑hour window.
- Mood impact - Only Malegra FXT and separate fluoxetine address depression directly.
- Side‑effect tolerance - Some men find fluoxetine’s sexual side effects (reduced libido) clash with ED treatment, while others appreciate the mood lift.
- Cost & insurance - Single‑pill combos can be pricier than buying generic sildenafil plus a cheap fluoxetine.
- Drug interactions - All PDE5 inhibitors share a warning with nitrates; fluoxetine adds cautions with certain antipsychotics and blood thinners.
Best pick for different scenarios
- Quick, once‑off sex with no depression - Stendra or high‑dose Viagra.
- Long window for weekend plans - Cialis (daily low dose) or Viagra taken early.
- Both ED and mild depression, prefer one tablet - Malegra FXT.
- Already on a different SSRI - Separate sildenafil prescription; discuss switching antidepressants with your psychiatrist.
- Budget‑conscious - Generic sildenafil + low‑cost fluoxetine (two pills) usually cheaper than the combo.
Potential pitfalls & safety tips
Even though combining a PDE5 inhibitor with an SSRI sounds convenient, there are a few things to watch:
- Fluoxetine can increase the half‑life of sildenafil, potentially lengthening side effects like headache.
- Both drugs can lower blood pressure slightly; avoid if you’re on nitrates or certain antihypertensives.
- Sexual side effects (decreased libido, delayed ejaculation) are a known SSRI issue; some men feel the combo counters that, others feel it worsens it.
- Start with the lowest dose and monitor how you feel for a week before adjusting.
- Never share the medication; it’s prescribed for your specific health profile.
Next steps
If you think Malegra FXT might fit your needs, schedule a telehealth visit or an in‑person appointment. Bring a list of any current meds, especially heart drugs or other antidepressants. Ask your provider about a trial period and what to do if side effects pop up.
For those leaning toward a single‑ingredient option, ask whether a generic sildenafil prescription plus your existing fluoxetine can be timed together safely. Finally, remember lifestyle factors - regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management - amplify any medication’s effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Malegra FXT with alcohol?
A small amount of alcohol (one drink) usually doesn’t cause problems, but heavy drinking can increase the risk of dizziness and low blood pressure. It’s safest to limit alcohol on the night you plan to use the medication.
How long does it take for fluoxetine’s mood benefits to appear?
Fluoxetine typically needs 1‑2weeks to reach therapeutic levels, with full mood improvement often seen after 4‑6weeks of daily use.
Is Malegra FXT safe for men over 65?
Older men can use it, but dosage may need adjustment because of potential heart or kidney issues. A doctor should evaluate blood pressure and any concurrent nitrate therapy before prescribing.
Can I substitute the fluoxetine part with another antidepressant?
The combo is specifically formulated with fluoxetine. Switching to another SSRI or a different class (like bupropion) would require a separate prescription and a new safety review.
What should I do if I experience a painful erection?
A painful, prolonged erection lasting more than 4hours is a medical emergency (priapism). Seek immediate care - the condition can cause permanent damage if untreated.