Anyone with erectile dysfunction has come across medications such as Viagra and Cialis. These are similar drugs prescribed to anyone struggling to have sex. They are by far the most commonly prescribed medications for the conditions. 

These drugs come from the same class of chemicals. They are categorized into a class of medications called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, whose role is to increase blood flow to the penis. Using any of these drugs helps you get and maintain an erection for some time.

However, these two drugs are not the same. Viagra contains sildenafil, while Cialis contains tadalafil. If you want to differentiate between Viagra and Cialis, this article will help you make an informed choice.

What is Viagra?

Viagra is one of the popular drugs for individuals with erectile dysfunction. It is a brand name for the drug sildenafil from Pfizer. The FDA approved Viagra in 1998 as a medication for erectile dysfunction. 

You need to take Viagra 30 minutes or 1 hour before sexual activity. Its effect can last up to 5 hours. People only choose Viagra when they need it for faster use. For example, anyone having infrequent sex uses Viagra for quick arousal before sexual activity. 

However, you cannot take Viagra while eating a high-fat meal as it reduces its absorption. 

What is Cialis?

Cialis is the brand name for tadalafil. It is an FDA-approved drug prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). You can take Cialis before sexual activity or once every day to maintain your sexual desire.

Compared to Viagra, Cialis can last up to 36 hours. Also, tadalafil works faster than Viagra. It reaches the maximum level in the body within 30 minutes after taking it.

Therefore, you use Cialis if you want a long-lasting drug for frequent sexual experiences. It doesn’t affect your sexual desire. You can take Cialis on an empty stomach or with food without side effects.

Cialis vs. Viagra Comparison

The difference between Viagra and Cialis is in how long they stay in the body. Cialis provides a penile hardness over a longer period than Viagra. For example, it can last up to 18 hours, compared to the 6 hours of Viagra. It also works faster than Viagra in getting and maintaining an erection.

The drugs also differ in terms of the standard dosage. For example, Viagra is available as a 50 mg oral tablet to take before sexual activity. Conversely, Cialis comes as a 10 mg oral tablet to take daily. You can use smaller doses for long-term use.

Viagra and Cialis also have different side effects and uses. Since these drugs work in similar ways, you cannot take them together. Taking both Viagra and Cialis at the same time can increase the risk of adverse side effects.

Choosing Between Viagra and Cialis 

Both Viagra and Cialis work similarly. They are effective for treating erectile dysfunction and safe to use. As a result, the difference between these two drugs is insignificant. Each medication helps relax your muscles while increasing blood flow to the body. They help more blood move into the penis. This allows people with ED to experience a lasting erection during sexual activity. 

The ultimate choice depends on what drug fits your lifestyle better. People choose Cialis over Viagra if they don’t want to coordinate sex with the timing of drugs. The longer-acting characteristics of the tadalafil 10 mg tablet make it perfect for frequent sex. You can use a lower daily dose to get and maintain an erection for a long time. 

Viagra is a suitable choice if you have infrequent sex. Instead of taking a daily sex tablet, you only use it when having sex.

Bottom Line

Both Viagra and Cialis are well-documented drugs for erectile dysfunction. They are oral drugs crucial to treating the inability to maintain or attain an erection. While they are safe to use, you must be an adult man 18 years and older to use any of these medications. Choose a drug that will meet your lifestyle and personal needs.

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