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Cialis and Viagra are the most popular medications for erectile dysfunction (ED). Both drugs have been widely prescribed and have helped millions of men improve their sexual performance.
However, despite their similarities, there are some critical differences between these two medications that patients should consider when deciding which one to use. This article aims to comprehensively compare the effectiveness, dosage, and side effects and respond to your question, “Cialis vs Viagra – Which is better?”
Viagra, known by its generic name Sildenafil, was the first PDE5 inhibitor approved by the FDA for treating ED. The medication was launched in 1998 by Pfizer, and approved by the European Medicines Agency and US Food and Drug Administration, as the first oral drug to treat erectile dysfunction. The success of Viagra led to the development of other PDE5 inhibitors, including Cialis. [1]
Cialis, also known as Tadalafil, was approved by the FDA in 2003. Developed by LillyMedical, Cialis has become a popular alternative to Viagra due to its longer-lasting effects. [5] Since their introduction to the market, both medications have helped millions of men worldwide manage their ED and regain their confidence.
Thus, in the presence of sexual stimulation, ED drugs can produce a strong erection, allowing a person to initiate and complete sexual intercourse.
Cialis and Viagra belong to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which relax the blood vessels in the penis to allow for increased blood flow during sexual arousal. [2] Despite their similar mechanism of action, some critical differences between the two medications can influence a patient’s decision on which one to choose.
One of the main differences between Cialis and Viagra is the duration of their effect. Cialis, also known as tadalafil, is known for its longer-lasting effects, with its impact lasting up to 36 hours. This has earned it the nickname “the weekend pill.” Viagra, or sildenafil, on the other hand, has a shorter duration of action, usually lasting around 4-6 hours. [3]
Sildenafil citrate, the active ingredient in Viagra, is also present in a medication called Revatio, which is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension or PAH. Cialis is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) , a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland in men.
Another notable difference between the two medications is the time it takes for them to become effective. Cialis typically works within 30 minutes to 2 hours, while Viagra usually takes effect within 30-60 minutes. These differences can play a significant role in helping individuals decide which medication is best suited to their needs and lifestyle. [4]
For those who prefer to purchase their ED medications online, several reputable telemedicine services offer both Cialis and Viagra. These platforms typically require a consultation with a licensed physician to ensure the medication is appropriate and safe for the patient.
Related: Cialis online
BlueChew, Hims, Rex MD, Roman, and Elan MD are the most popular telemedicine platforms.
BlueChew is an innovative telemedicine platform that provides ED medication across the United States. The company’s vision is to cater to individuals who:
RELATED: BlueChew Review
The subscription begins with a virtual consultation with a licensed medical provider who delves into your symptoms and medical background. BlueChew provides chewable versions of sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil.
Hims is a telemedicine platform that offers a wide range of men’s health services, including erectile dysfunction treatment. They provide both Cialis and Viagra and other ED medications like Levitra and Stendra.
RELATED: Hims ED Review
Hims offers a discreet and convenient online consultation process, allowing patients to obtain a prescription without needing an in-person doctor’s visit.
Rex MD is another popular telemedicine service that specializes in men’s health. They offer both Cialis and Viagra, as well as other ED medications. Rex MD prides itself on its commitment to patient privacy and the quality of its products sourced from licensed pharmacies.
Roman is a well-known telemedicine platform that offers a range of men’s health services, including ED treatments. They provide both Cialis and Viagra, as well as other ED medications. Roman offers a convenient and discreet online consultation process, allowing patients to obtain a prescription without needing an in-person doctor’s visit.
Elan MD is a telemedicine service that specializes in sexual health and wellness. They offer both Cialis and Viagra, as well as other ED medications. Elan MD provides a patient-centric approach to healthcare, offering personalized treatment plans and ongoing support from their team of licensed medical professionals.
In terms of effectiveness, both Cialis and Viagra have been proven to be effective in treating erectile dysfunction. Numerous studies have demonstrated that both medications can improve erectile function in most men, regardless of the cause of their ED.
However, some studies about Cialis vs Viagra have suggested that Cialis may have a slight advantage over Viagra regarding its overall effectiveness. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men taking Cialis reported higher levels of sexual satisfaction and improved erectile function compared to those taking Viagra. [9]
Another study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that Cialis was more effective in treating ED caused by diabetes compared to Viagra. [10] That being said, individual responses to these medications can vary, and what works best for one person may not necessarily work as well for another.
The appropriate dosage for Cialis and Viagra can vary depending on the individual’s needs and response to the medication. The typical starting dose for Cialis is 10 mg, which can be adjusted up to 20 mg or down to 5 mg, depending on the patient’s response. [5]
Cialis is also available in a daily low-dose formulation (2.5 mg or 5 mg), which can be taken daily to maintain a constant level of the medication in the body. [11]
Viagra, on the other hand, is typically prescribed in doses of 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg, with 50 mg being the standard starting dose. The dosage can be increased or decreased based on the patient’s response and tolerance to the medication. [12]
Cialis and Viagra share similar side effects due to their similar mechanism of action. Common side effects of both medications include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, indigestion, and muscle aches. These side effects are generally mild and tend to subside as the body becomes accustomed to the medication. [2]
However, there are some differences in the side effect profiles of Cialis and Viagra. Cialis is more likely to cause back pain and muscle aches, while Viagra is more likely to cause visual disturbances, such as changes in color vision or sensitivity to light.
Patients need to discuss any side effects with their healthcare provider to determine if a change in medication or dosage may be necessary.
Both Cialis and Viagra can interact with certain medications and medical conditions, so patients need to discuss their medical history and any current medications with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Some common medications that can interact with Cialis or Viagra include nitrates (used to treat chest pain), alpha-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure or enlarged prostate), and certain antifungal or antibiotic medications. These potential drug interactions can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the ED medication.
Additionally, Cialis and Viagra should be used cautiously in patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, or a history of heart attack or stroke. Patients with these conditions may require a lower dose or cannot take these medications. [13]
The Cialis vs Viagra price can vary depending on the dosage, the quantity prescribed, and the pharmacy or online retailer where the medication is purchased.
The price of Viagra fluctuates based on the pill’s potency, with the 50mg or 100mg dosage typically costing around $80 per tablet. Meanwhile, Cialis is priced at roughly $12 for the 5mg dosage and $70 for the 20mg dosage per tablet.
However, it is worth noting that the longer duration of action of Cialis may make it a more cost-effective option for some individuals, as fewer doses may be required compared to Viagra. Additionally, generic versions of both medications are available, which can significantly reduce the cost of treatment.
Cialis typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours to become effective, while Viagra usually takes 30-60 minutes.
Cialis can last up to 36 hours, while Viagra usually lasts 4-6 hours.
While moderate alcohol consumption is unlikely to interfere with the effectiveness of Cialis or Viagra, excessive alcohol use can increase the risk of side effects and may reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
Yes, generic versions of both medications, Cialis or Viagra, are available and can be significantly cheaper than the brand-name versions.
RELATED: Generic Viagra Online
In rare cases, Cialis or Viagra can cause a prolonged erection that lasts more than 4 hours. This condition, known as priapism, requires immediate medical attention.
The highest dosage for Cialis is 20mg, while for Viagra, it’s 100mg. If your healthcare professional recommends switching from Cialis to Viagra, they may advise using the 100mg dose. If you wonder whether Cialis 20mg vs Viagra 100mg is better, please notify your healthcare provider, as it differs for everyone.
Both Viagra and Cialis are effective erectile dysfunction medications for treating erectile dysfunction, but they have essential differences in duration, onset of action, dosage, side effects, and cost. Patients should work with their healthcare provider to determine which medication best suits their needs and preferences.
Answering the question of Cialis vs Viagra is difficult, as both medications have advantages and disadvantages. Patients should consider factors such as the duration of action, onset of action, dosage options, side effect profile, and cost when deciding.
Discussing concerns or questions with a healthcare provider is essential, as they can provide personalized advice and guidance based on the patient’s medical history and individual needs. Ultimately, the right choice of medication will depend on the patient’s unique situation and preferences.
For those who prefer to purchase their ED medications online, several reputable telemedicine services, such as Hims, Rex MD, Elan MD, and Roman, offer Cialis and Viagra, and BlueChew offers Sildenafil, Tadalafil, and Vardenafil as chewables. However, discussing any concerns or questions with a licensed healthcare provider before starting treatment with these medications is essential.
Related articles:
1. [1] – Dhaliwal A, Gupta M. PDE5 Inhibitors. [Updated 2022 May 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549843/
2. [2] – Huang SA, Lie JD. Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) Inhibitors In the Management of Erectile Dysfunction. P T. 2013 Jul;38(7):407-19. PMID: 24049429; PMCID: PMC3776492.
3. [3] – Gong B, Ma M, Xie W, Yang X, Huang Y, Sun T, Luo Y, Huang J. Direct comparison of tadalafil with sildenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Urol Nephrol. 2017 Oct;49(10):1731-1740. doi: 10.1007/s11255-017-1644-5. Epub 2017 Jul 24. PMID: 28741090; PMCID: PMC5603624.
4. [4] – Eardley I, Ellis P, Boolell M, Wulff M. Onset and duration of action of sildenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2002;53 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):61S-65S. doi: 10.1046/j.0306-5251.2001.00034.x. PMID: 11879261; PMCID: PMC1874251.
5. [5] – Coward RM, Carson CC. Tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Dec;4(6):1315-30. doi: 10.2147/tcrm.s3336. PMID: 19337438; PMCID: PMC2643112.
6. [6] – Eardley I, Ellis P, Boolell M, Wulff M. Onset and duration of action of sildenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2002;53 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):61S-65S. doi: 10.1046/j.0306-5251.2001.00034.x. PMID: 11879261; PMCID: PMC1874251.
7. [7] – Chamsi-Pasha H. Sildenafil (viagra) and the heart. J Family Community Med. 2001 May;8(2):63-6. PMID: 23008645; PMCID: PMC3437061.
8. [8] – Nichols DJ, Muirhead GJ, Harness JA. Pharmacokinetics of sildenafil after single oral doses in healthy male subjects: absolute bioavailability, food effects and dose proportionality. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2002;53 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):5S-12S. doi: 10.1046/j.0306-5251.2001.00027.x. PMID: 11879254; PMCID: PMC1874258.
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11. [11] – Washington SL 3rd, Shindel AW. A once-daily dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction: compliance and efficacy. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2010 Sep 7;4:159-71. doi: 10.2147/dddt.s9067. PMID: 20856843; PMCID: PMC2939761.
12. [12] – McMurray JG, Feldman RA, Auerbach SM, Deriesthal H, Wilson N; Multicenter Study Group. Long-term safety and effectiveness of sildenafil citrate in men with erectile dysfunction. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2007 Dec;3(6):975-81. PMID: 18516312; PMCID: PMC2387281.
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