Cialis and Viagra are the most popular treatments for ED. But which one is more suitable for your lifestyle?
As men age, they may need more time between orgasm and subsequent erections, a little more stimulation, and sometimes, some assistance in the form of a little pill. Taken by millions of men worldwide, Viagra (Sildenafil) and Cialis (Tadalafil) are two leading treatments for ED. They are safe and have successfully enhanced the sexual experiences of millions of men.
However, although they help treat the same issues, there is a slight difference between Viagra and Cialis, and they are uniquely suited for different lifestyles. If you’re not sure which medication would work best for your way of life, don’t worry! We’re here to help.
How Does Viagra Work?
Viagra (sildenafil) provides a reliable and strong reaction and can help you have multiple quality erections while it’s in your system.
How Long Does Sildenafil Last?
For most men, the drug starts working after 30-60 minutes and lasts another 4-8 hours after that, although the effects usually begin to diminish at the halfway mark. For best results, take the medication an hour before intercourse and on an empty stomach.
How Does Cialis Work?
Cialis (tadalafil) is in the same drug class as Viagra and works in the same general way but stays in your bloodstream much longer.
How Long Does It Take for Cialis to Peak?
After taking it, Cialis starts working within 30-45 minutes and reaches peak effectiveness after 2 hours.
How Long Does Cialis Last?
If you’re wondering when to take Cialis for best results, keep in mind that, once taken, its effects can last 24 to 36 hours. This makes Cialis perfect for men looking for a long romantic weekend or trying to avoid having to “schedule” sexual activity.
Although Viagra and Cialis are very efficient in treating ED, men respond differently to these two medications. Finding the right one for you may require some experimenting. But until then, here are expert answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Viagra and Cialis.
Viagra vs. Cialis: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cialis Make You Last Longer?
Cialis stays in your system from 24 to 36 hours, while Viagra generally lasts 4-8 hours. Therefore, Cialis provides a greater window of opportunity to achieve multiple and harder erections.
Does Viagra Make You Harder Than Cialis?
Both Cialis and Viagra are very effective at helping men achieve and maintain an erection during sex.
Which Has More Side Effects?
Both medications have similar side effects, and the most common are indigestion, headache, muscle pain, flushing, back pain, and nasal congestion. Most men find that the juice is well worth the squeeze, although the side effects of Cialis (Tadalafil) typically last longer—just like the drug itself.
Is Cialis Safer Than Viagra?
Both Cialis and Viagra have immaculate safety records. Nevertheless, they both can become unsafe if used with certain medications. It is strongly recommended to avoid using either Viagra or Cialis with medicine that can decrease blood pressure, such as alpha-blockers, antihypertensives, nitrates, and riociguat. Combining these medications can cause dangerously low blood pressure.
Further, since Cialis and Viagra are both processed in the liver, they should not be taken together with drugs that alter the function of certain enzymes. CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as certain antibiotics, antifungals, and HIV protease inhibitor drugs, may boost the level of Cialis and Viagra in the body. CYP3A4 inducers, such as phenytoin or carbamazepine and the antibiotic rifampin may decrease the effectiveness of Viagra and Cialis.
You should also avoid grapefruit juice and drinking alcohol to excess when taking Viagra or Cialis, as these may increase side effects and significantly alter absorption rates.
Which Is More Effective?
The reported effectiveness of Viagra is 84%, and it is slightly higher than the reported effectiveness of Cialis at 81%. So yes, it’s safe to say that Viagra is more effective, but many men prefer Cialis due to its longer duration of effect. Others prefer Viagra because its side effects wear off sooner.
Which Is More Affordable?
Sildenafil (generic Viagra) is the most affordable medication for treating ED and has the longest safety record. Tadalafil (generic Cialis) is more expensive but lasts longer.
Lifestyle: Which Is Better, Viagra or Cialis?
Both ED medications are widely available and help men achieve and maintain harder (and more frequent) erections. However, research has shown that people with different lifestyles have different preferences.
If your sex life is somewhat irregular, Cialis (Tadalafil) might be a more suitable option for you. Its longer-lasting effects mean that you can take your eyes off the clock and have sex whenever you want. If you’re dating or sexual spontaneity is important to you, Cialis (Tadalafil) may be the better choice.
If you have a more predictable sex life or don’t like dealing with side effects for as long, Viagra (Sildenafil) may be a better choice for you. Considering the medication lasts for only 4-8 hours, Sildenafil may be the better choice for men with active and busy lifestyles as it can be taken as needed.
The bottom line is, it’s more of a personal choice when it comes to treating ED. Both medications have similar effects, but there is still a difference between Viagra and Cialis.
For instance, if you’re looking for a “weekend” ED treatment that will last longer and help you have more spontaneous sex without having to plan as carefully, you will probably like Cialis better. Research suggests that Cialis is preferred by women, as they aren’t “on the clock,” so they feel more relaxed and able to enjoy more natural and spontaneous sex. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a less expensive ED medicine that doesn’t last as long (and neither do its side effects) but will help you maintain more frequent and harder erections just for the night, Viagra is probably the better choice.