Cialis vs. Viagra
Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra, the best-known treatment for erectile dysfunction and has been licensed for use for over 15 years. Millions of men across the world have found it to be a very effective treatment. Since 2013, Viagra has been available as a generic medicine called Sildenafil. As a consequence, the price for Sildenafil has fallen substantially.
Tadalafil vs. Sildenafil: Which is Better?
An estimated 30 million men in the United States are routinely affected by erectile dysfunction. When something is this common, there are often tons of potential treatment options . Some of the most popular and effective treatments for erectile dysfunction are prescription medications, including sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra®, and tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis®.
While they’re both highly effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, they have quite a few differences – and each has valid claims regarding superiority .
What Are Tadalafil and Sildenafil?
Both tadalafil (Cialis®) and sildenafil (Viagra®) are oral medications that are used for treating erectile dysfunction . They are in a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors that also include vardenafil (Levitra) and avanafil (Stendra).
Erections are caused by the engorgement of the penis with blood. Under regular conditions, sexual stimulation and arousal leads to the production and release of nitric oxide in the penis. Nitric oxide is responsible for the activation of the enzyme guanylate cyclase, which causes the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
It is this cGMP that is primarily responsible for the erection as it affects the amount of blood that the blood vessels will deliver and remove from the penis.
PDE5 is an enzyme that breaks down cGMP. Tadalafil and sildenafil inhibit PDE5. By preventing the destruction of the cGMP and allowing it to accumulate and persist for longer in the penis, the penis can remain engorged, firm, and long for longer.
Think of PDE5 inhibitors like the brakes on the car. Removing the brakes allows the car to go faster and further more easily.
Which One Came First, Viagra or Cialis?
Viagra (sildenafil) is a few years older than Cialis (tadalafil) and was the first oral treatment for erectile dysfunction approved by the FDA.
On March 27th, 1998, Viagra (sildenafil) became the first oral pill, and first PDE5 inhibitor, to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat erectile dysfunction in the U.S. Viagra (sildenafil) was developed and sold exclusively by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer for 15 years until their patents expired in 2017 and the first generic versions were introduced.
After this, other companies were legally allowed to produce, market, and sell their own version of sildenafil. The first generic sildenafil was approved in March of 2016 and released on the market in December of 2017.
Cialis was first approved for treating erectile dysfunction on November 21st, 2003 and was the third PDE5 inhibitor to hit the market (after vardenafil [Levitra]).
The pharmaceutical company named Eli Lilly was the developer and patent-holder for tadalafil until November of 2017. After key patents expired, several other companies were permitted to make their own versions of tadalafil and sell these cheaper options on the market.
Which One Lasts Longer?
Cialis (tadalafil) will stay in your body for four to six times longer than Viagra (sildenafil).
Both Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil) can reach their maximum effectiveness in as little as an hour, but for some patients they may work more quickly.
One of the largest differences between the two medications is how long they stay in your body. Viagra (sildenafil) will stay in your body for six to eight hours but Cialis (tadalafil) can work for an incredible 24 to 36 hours. For this reason, Cialis is often known as “the weekend pill.” While this means that the benefits of the drug will last longer, it also means that any side effects can as well.
If you experience any side effects while taking erectile dysfunction medications, it may be a better choice to go for the one with the shorter duration
Is There A Difference In Dosage?
Yes, Viagra (sildenafil) is only taken “as needed” with doses of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. Cialis (tadalafil) can be prescribed for daily use with doses of 2.5 mg or 5 mg, but also “as needed” like Viagra at 10 mg or 20 mg.
Since Cialis (tadalafil) will stay in your body longer, it changes the options for the prescription a little when compared to Viagra (sildenafil). For example, Cialis can either be taken as a daily dose or only when needed.
For individuals that are not sure when sexual activity may occur and want to be prepared for all situations, daily usage is probably the best choice. This tadalafil dose is between 2.5 mg and 5 mg and should only be taken once a day. You should not exceed 10 mg in 72 hours. Cialis can be prescribed to be only taken when needed as well. These doses will typically start at 10 mg and increase to 20 mg or decrease to 5 mg depending on results. Viagra, on the other hand, is only available on an “as needed” basis. The dose options are 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg.
Does Food Affect Them?
It’s possible for Viagra (sildenafil) to be negatively impacted by food, while Cialis (tadalafil) is not affected by food at all.
Viagra will generally work within 30 minutes of ingestion, but its effects can be delayed or diminished depending on food. If you are to eat a large, heavy, or high-fat meal, sildenafil’s effects could be negatively impacted. It’s recommended to take Viagra on an empty stomach if possible, but having a light meal beforehand shouldn’t cause much harm.
Cialis, on the other hand will typically work within 45 minutes of ingestion, but its activity is not affected by food.
Alcohol can potentially create issues for both options, so it’s best to limit it to one or two drinks at most. Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption while using them could lead to dampening the effects of the medications or blood pressure related health issues.
Which One is Cheaper?
The cost will depend on several factors, but Viagra (sildenafil) is often cheaper.
Depending on where you’re looking and what your specific insurance plan covers, the prices you pay may be different than the following costs.
That being said, in most cases the brand name Cialis is not typically covered by Medicare or most insurance plans. Some plans may cover the generic version of tadalafil. The average retail cost of generic tadalafil is roughly $275 for 30 tablets at a 2.5 mg dose.
The brand name of Viagra is also not usually covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. Some insurance plans may offer to cover the generic sildenafil. The average retail cost of generic sildenafil can range from $140 to $400 for 30 tablets of a 25 mg dose.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Since Cialis will stay in your system longer than Viagra, it’s important to know what the side effects can be as it may alter your decision. The longer it’s in your system, the longer you may feel the side effects. The most common side effects of Cialis are headache, indigestion, and flushing of the face or body, but even these are fairly uncommon.
Other possible side effects may include:
- Headaches
- Indigestion
- Flushing
- Nosebleeds
- Trouble sleeping
- Fever
- An erection lasting longer than normal
- Respiratory infection
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision or a blue tint
- Bronchitis
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
Other more serious symptoms are possible and could potentially be life threatening.
While these are rare, it’s important to keep in mind that they are possible:
- Low blood pressure, which can cause blurry vision, dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting, sleepiness, and weakness
- Increased shortness of breath or issues breathing
- Priapism or an erection that lasts more than four hours
- Vision problems, such as losing vision in one or both eyes
- Hearing problems, such as sudden hearing loss or tinnitus
- Heart problems, such as heart attack, stroke, or irregular heart beat
While the side effects listed above do happen, they are fairly rare. However, there are a few other situations that are important to avoid in order to stay as safe as possible while taking either medication.
You should not be taking Viagra or Cialis if you are:
- Over 65 years old
- Take nitrates or alpha blockers
- Take Riociguat for pulmonary arterial hypertension
- Are not healthy enough for sexual activity
Do More People Like Tadalafil or Sildenafil?
It can be hard to compare drugs directly, but the research seems to indicate that more men and their partners prefer tadalafil to sildenafil when give the choice. A 2017 meta-analysis of sildenafil and tadalafil research concluded: “Tadalafil shares a similar efficacy and safety with sildenafil and significantly improves patients’ sexual confidence. Furthermore, patients and their partners prefer tadalafil to sildenafil. Hence, tadalafil may be a better choice for ED treatment. ”
The Takeaway:
It can depend on a few factors, but tadalafil is often preferred by both men and their partners, despite Viagra’s long-time popularity.
The benefits of Cialis (tadalafil) make it, objectively, a superior option when compared to Viagra (sildenafil). Although sildenafil has been around longer and is often a cheaper alternative, tadalafil will not only last longer, but has a daily dose option and is not affected by food. This makes it the more versatile option of the two and easier to manage.
While preference often comes down to personal experience, if you’re dealing with ED, getting any assistance is the best first step.
Rex MD is here for that, with generic ED meds ordered online and delivered to your door, if approved. It’s fast and easy, and it’s all at rock-bottom prices.
Cialis vs. Viagra
Cialis (tadalafil) and Viagra (sildenafil) are phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors used for treating impotence (erectile dysfunction, or ED).
What Are Possible Side Effects of Cialis?
- flushing (redness or warmth of the face, neck, or chest),
- headaches,
- stomach upset,
- diarrhea,
- flu-like symptoms (such as stuffy nose, sneezing, or sore throat),
- memory problems,
- muscle or back pain,
- nausea,
- low blood pressure,
- dizziness,
- blurred vision and changes in color vision,
- abnormalejaculation, and
- prolonged erections (priapism).
What Are Possible Side Effects of Viagra?
- warmth or redness in the face, neck, or chest,
- stuffy nose,
- headaches,
- stomach pain,
- upset stomach,
- nausea,
- diarrhea,
- memory problems,
- back pain,
- an inability to differentiate between the colors green and blue,
- loss of hearing,
- ringing in the ears,
- and dizziness.
What is Cialis?
Cialis is a prescription medicine taken by mouth for the treatment of:
What is Viagra?
Viagra is a prescription medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). You will not get an erection just by taking this medicine. Viagra helps a man with erectile dysfunction get and keep an erection only when he is sexually excited (stimulated).
Viagra is not for use in women or children.
It is not known if Viagra is safe and effective in women or children under 18 years of age.
QUESTION
What Drugs Interact With Cialis?
- take any medicines called “nitrates”.
- use recreational drugs called “poppers” like amyl nitrite and butyl nitrite.
- take any medicines called guanylate cyclase stimulators, such as riociguat.
- are allergic to Cialis or Adcirca, or any of its ingredients.
Call your healthcare provider or get help right away if you have any of the symptoms of an allergic reaction listed above.
What Drugs Interact With Viagra?
- take medicines called nitrates (such as nitroglycerin)
- use street drugs called “poppers” such as amyl nitrate or amyl nitrite, and butyl nitrate
- take any medicines called guanylate cyclase stimulators such as riociguat (Adempas)
- are allergic to sildenafil, as contained in Viagra and REVATIO, or any of the ingredients in Viagra. See the end of this leaflet for a complete list of ingredients in Viagra.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take1, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Viagra may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect the way Viagra works causing side effects. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take any of the following:
- medicines called nitrates (see “What is the most important information I should know about Viagra?”)
- medicines called guanylate cyclase stimulators, such as riociguat (Adempas)
- medicines called alpha blockers such as Hytrin (terazosin HCl), Flomax (tamsulosin HCl), Cardura (doxazosin mesylate), Minipress (prazosin HCl), Uroxatral (alfuzosin HCl), Jalyn (dutasteride and tamsulosin HCl), or Rapaflo (silodosin). Alpha-blockers are sometimes prescribed for prostate problems or high blood pressure. In some patients, the use of Viagra with alpha-blockers can lead to a drop in blood pressure or to fainting.
- medicines called HIVprotease inhibitors, such as ritonavir (Norvir), indinavir sulfate (Crixivan), saquinavir (Fortovase or Invirase) or atazanavir sulfate (Reyataz)
- some types of oralantifungal medicines, such as ketoconazole (Nizoral), and itraconazole (Sporanox)
- some types of antibiotics, such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), telithromycin (Ketek), or erythromycin
- other medicines that treat high blood pressure
- other medicines or treatments for ED
Viagra contains sildenafil, which is the same medicine found in another drug called REVATIO. REVATIO is used to treat a rare disease called pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Viagra should not be used with REVATIO or with other PAH treatments containing sildenafil or any other PDE5 inhibitors (such as Adcirca [tadalafil]).
Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of these medicines, if you are not sure.
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How Should Cialis Be Taken?
Take Cialis exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes it. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the dose that is right for you.
Some men can only take a low dose of Cialis or may have to take it less often, because of medical conditions or medicines they take.
Do not change your dose or the way you take Cialis without talking to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may lower or raise your dose, depending on how your body reacts to Cialis and your health condition.
Cialis may be taken with or without meals.
If you take too much Cialis, call your healthcare provider or emergency room right away.
How Should Viagra Be Taken?
Take Viagra exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.
Your healthcare provider will tell you how much Viagra to take and when to take it.
Your healthcare provider may change your dose if needed.
Take Viagra about 1 hour before sexual activity. You may take Viagra between 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity if needed.
Viagra can be taken with or without food. If you take Viagra after a high fat meal (such as a cheeseburger and french fries), Viagra may take a little longer to start working
Do not take Viagra more than 1 time a day.
If you accidentally take too much Viagra, call your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.
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All drug information provided on RxList.com is sourced directly from drug monographs published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Any drug information published on RxList.com regarding general drug information, drug side effects, drug usage, dosage, and more are sourced from the original drug documentation found in its FDA drug monograph.
Drug information found in the drug comparisons published on RxList.com is primarily sourced from the FDA drug information. The drug comparison information found in this article does not contain any data from clinical trials with human participants or animals performed by any of the drug manufacturers comparing the drugs.
The drug comparisons information provided does not cover every potential use, warning, drug interaction, side effect, or adverse or allergic reaction. RxList.com assumes no responsibility for any healthcare administered to a person based on the information found on this site.
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Any missing drug warnings or information does not in any way guarantee the safety, effectiveness, or the lack of adverse effects of any drug. The drug information provided is intended for reference only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice.
If you have specific questions regarding a drug’s safety, side effects, usage, warnings, etc., you should contact your doctor or pharmacist, or refer to the individual drug monograph details found on the FDA.gov or RxList.com websites for more information.
You may also report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA by visiting the FDA MedWatch website or calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Cialis Prescribing Information.
http://uspl.lilly.com/cialis/cialis.html#ppi
Viagra Prescribing Information.
https://www.viagra.com/
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Tadalafil vs Sildenafil: Which is better?
Tadalafil and Sildenafil are two popular generic erectile dysfunction treatments. Sildenafil is the generic version of the original erectile dysfunction drug Viagra and Tadalafil is the generic version of Cialis. We compare several factors including how fast they work, cost, duration, effectiveness and more. Find out which treatment is more effective for you!
Tadalafil
Sildenafil
What is Tadalafil?
Tadalafil is the generic name of the drug Cialis. Tadalafil Daily is a low dosage tablet which is taken once a day and allows you to achieve an erection at any time of the day or night. Tadalafil 36-hour is taken 15-20 minutes before sex and works for as long as 36 hours.
What is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra, the best-known treatment for erectile dysfunction and has been licensed for use for over 15 years. Millions of men across the world have found it to be a very effective treatment. Since 2013, Viagra has been available as a generic medicine called Sildenafil. As a consequence, the price for Sildenafil has fallen substantially.
How do Tadalafil and Viagra work?
Tadalafil, like Sildenafil is what is known as a PDE-5 inhibitor. When sexually stimulated, the PDE-5 class of drugs maintains a relaxed muscle state and increases the flow of blood to the penis to facilitate an erection. PDE-5 inhibitors do not increase interest or sexual desire and are only used to treat the physical problems associated with erectile dysfunction.
Does Tadalafil work more quickly than Sildenafil?
Although both have a fast onset of action, Tadalafil works slightly faster than Sildenafil. While Sildenafil usually takes about 20-30 minutes, Tadalafil can work in 15-20 minutes. Tadalafil is also available as Tadalafil Daily, which is taken once a day, and will enable you to achieve an erection anytime throughout the day.
Does Tadalafil last longer than Sildenafil?
Tadalafil has a longer duration of action than Sildenafil, and can remain in the body for up to 36 hours. This has earned it the reputation of “The Weekend Pill”. This benefits you because you don’t need to pre-plan your dosage close to any expected sexual activity, but instead can utilise its effects up to 12, and sometimes 36 hours after taking it.
Is Sildenafil more effective than Tadalafil?
Both medications have a high success rate, helping the majority of men to regain control over their erection. In clinical trials for Sildenafil, Sildenafil 100mg was effective at treating 82 percent of patients; while in clinical trial data for Cialis, 81 percent of patients found that Tadalafil improved their erections. The clinical trial data indicates that both are effective and there is no significant difference between the two drugs.
Does Tadalafil have fewer side effects than Sildenafil?
As both drugs work in the same way, they share many of the same side effects. These include face flushing, headaches and indigestion. However, Sildenafil also has a few other effects that don’t seem to affect users of Tadalafil to the same extent, such as rashes, visual disturbances and diarrhoea. Headaches also occur more commonly with Sildenafil, but may last longer with Tadalafil. If any of these affect you after taking a dose of Sildenafil, Tadalafil may be a better option.
Conclusion: Which is Better – Tadalafil vs Sildenafil?
Tadalafil is a more modern, effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. Tadalafil appears to offer advantages over Sildenafil when it comes to the most desirable attributes for an erectile dysfunction medication, including duration of action, onset of action, and side effects.
The ED drug smackdown is on!
In one corner Cialis ( aka Tadalafil ) and in the other Viagra ( aka Sildenafil ). Who packs the right punch for you and your needs? Let’s find out!
While both of these popular ED medications, Tadalafil and Sildenafil, have been around since 2017 and treat erectile dysfunction, each medication has its ups and downs, along with different outcomes for different people. Before we jump in, it’s important to note that there is no chemical difference between the generic drugs and their brand name versions; however, there are differences between the two different medications.
What Are The Key Differences?
The number one difference between the two drugs is how long they last. Tadalafil can last up to 36-hours, which means it will treat erectile dysfunction anytime within the 36-hour timeframe. While contender Sildenafil typically only lasts around 4 to 6 hours. For this reason, many often prefer Tadalafil as it allows users to have spontaneous sex. Another big plus for Tadalafil is that it can be taken on an empty stomach or with a meal, with no effect on the strength of the drug or how quickly it kicks in. It’s not necessary to take Viagra (sildenafil) with food. In fact, taking Viagra soon after eating a heavy meal especially if the meal contains lots of fat can delay absorption of the drug, which could make it less effective.
What About Side Effects?
It’s important to note that if you are taking either medication and begin to feel symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, nausea, or have an erection lasting more than four, it’s best to stop taking the medication and contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Common side effects of Sildenafil include: headaches, nasal congestion, nausea, dizziness, rash, urinary tract infections, diarrhea, an inability to differentiate between green and blue, facial flushing, and stomach pain. About 15% of people who take Sildenafil have reported experiencing one or more side effects. Common side effects of Tadalafil include: headaches, upset stomach, diarrhea, facial flushing, flu-like symptoms, nausea, low blood pressure, blurred vision, changes in visual colors, and abnormal ejaculation. Some of these side effects can be managed by changing the dosage prescribed, so be sure to reach out to your doctor or pharmacist.
