In the United States, an estimated 30 million men experience erectile dysfunction (ED), while the number of cases is increasing with age. Research shows that ED is a common issue, affecting up to 70% of men by age 70 and even 40% by age 40.
For those facing challenges with ED, exploring the right ED treatments between Sildenafil and Tadalafil can be an effective step for finding solutions.
In this blog, we’ll discuss Tadalafil vs Sildenafil dosage, their key differences, side effects and other relevant information so that you can make the right choice for your sexual health.
Tadalafil, the generic name of Cialis, a popular medication for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). As an FDA-approved drug Tadalafil is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
It belongs to a group of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, which works by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.
As Tadalafil used for maintaining erection for a longer time – lasting up to 36 hours, it is often nicknamed the weekend pill.
As an ED medicine, Tadalafil is available in different doses – from daily low doses to long-lasting higher doses, depending on the individual’s health and requirements.
Sildenafil is popularly known as Viagra. As the widely-used ED medication Viagra generic name is Sildenafil, while the brand name Viagra is owned by one of the manufacturers of the drug. Sildenafil is an FDA-approved drug used for treating erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
Both sildenafil & tadalafil belong to a group of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors. So, what does Sildenafil do? It works by temporality increasing blood flow through the penis and relaxing blood vessels. This way, it helps gain and maintain a stronger, long-lasting erection when one is sexually aroused.
While both Sildenafil and Tadalafil are popularly used for erectile dysfunction treatment, many often doubt whether to take Sildenafil or Tadalafil for their ED treatment. Both these medications are similar in kind and action. Both of them are PDE5 inhibitors, which work similarly by relaxing blood muscles and enhancing blood flow to the penis.
However, among so many similarities, there is a key difference between sildenafil and tadalafil in terms of how they work, how long they remain effective and the ideal time for taking them.
Let’s dig deeper into the difference between Sildenafil and Tadalafil –
Tadalafil (Cialis): Typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours to start working, the time may vary depending on the individuals
Sildenafil (Viagra): Approximately takes 30 minutes to 1 hour
NOTE: Both Sildenafil & Tadalafil take almost the same time to start working, but Tadalafil can be more effective and flexible because of its longer effectiveness.
Tadalafil: Effect can last up to 36 hours
Sildenafil: Effect can last for 4-6 hours
NOTE: While talking about Tadalafil vs Sildenafil, Tadalafil’s effect can last much longer than Sildenafil – up to 36 hours. That’s why it is often called “the weekend pill”.
Tadalafil: Available in different dosages, from 10 mg to 60 mg, taken as required
Sildenafil: Available from 10mg to 100 mg dosage, 5mg dosage for daily use
Tadalafil: Users have the flexibility to use Tadalafil for both planned and spontaneous sexual activities.
Sildenafil: One can choose Sildenafil for immediate use.
| Side Effect | Tadalafil | Sildenafil |
| Cough | Yes | No |
| Upper Respiratory Tract Infections | Yes | No |
| Low Blood Pressure (rare) | Yes | No |
| Blurred Vision (rare) | Yes | Possible blue hue in vision (around 3%) |
| Prolonged Erection (rare) | Yes | Yes (Priapism – very rare) |
| Abnormal Ejaculation (rare) | Yes | No |
| Hearing Loss (very rare) | No | Yes (very rare) Export to Sheets |
Just like any medications, both Tadalafil and Sildenafil have side effects. Following are some common side effects shared by both Tadalafil and Sildenafil –
However, these side effects are temporary as they typically resolve within several hours after use.
Along with these shared side effects, there are several tadalafil vs sildenafil side effects.
Tadalafil: Some distinctive side effects of Tadalafil are cough, upper respiratory tract infections and back pain. In some rare cases, patients have experienced low blood pressure, blurred vision, prolonged erection and abnormal ejaculation.
Sildenafil: Patients taking Sildenafil may experience a blue hue in their vision. Around 3% of men report about this visual disruption when talking about ‘what does sildenafil do as side effects. On very rare occasions, patients have experience more serious side effects such as loss of hearing or priapism.
Such severe side effects are very rare. However, if you experience any of these side effects for an unusual duration, you should immediately seek medical advice.
While both Sildenafil & Tadalafil are not free from potential side effects, the lower likelihood of visual disruptions provides a slightly better advantage for Tadalafil. However, most users typically tolerate both these medications well, especially when they take them as per the prescribed dosage.
While considering the use of Tadalafil and Sildenafil, some standard and recommended guidelines should be considered. These recommended factors include age, lifestyle, individual preferences and potential drug interactions.
While taking Tadalafil or Sildenafil as a prescribed ED medication, it’s crucial to understand their potential drug interactions for the safety of your health. That means you need to understand how these medications pose health risks when combined with certain other medications.
Both Tadalafil and Sildenafil should not be taken with nitrate, a medication used for heart disease and blood pressure as they can cause harmful interactions together.
When taking Sildenafil and Tadalafil with Alpha-blocker medications such as tamsulosin and terazosin, one should closely monitor for potential interactions as it may lead to a significant decrease in blood pressure.
Some antifungal medications, antiseizure drugs and protease inhibitors may cause potential interactions with Tadalafil and Viagra.
There can be major drug interaction between Tadalafil (Cialis) and Sildenafil (Viagra). While many may wonder “Can you take tadalafil and sildenafil together?”, they should be aware of the possible sudden drop in blood pressure when these two drugs are combined together.
Age is a significant factor in determining the right medication with the most suitable dosage. Both medications can be prescribed to men between the ages of 18 years and 65 years. Adults above 65 years can start with a lower dosage of Tadalafil or Sildenafil.
Lifestyle factors such as excessive stress, anxiety, tiredness, smoking and alcohol consumption often cause erectile dysfunction. While someone is taking Sildenafil or Tadalafil for ED treatment, lifestyle interventions can also be effective in improving and resolving ED problems.
Both Tadalafil and Sildenafil have different medication effects, the duration of actions and the potential side effects. So, when one is thinking ‘Is tadalafil better than sildenafil’ or vice-versa, it comes to their individual preferences. For example, Tadalafil has a longer effect than Sildenafil, lasting up to 36 hours compared to 4-6 hours for Sildenafil.
NOTE: Before you start taking Tadalafil or Sildenafil with multiple other medications, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to avoid the potential side effects and serious health complications.
While comparing Sildenafil & Tadalafil to find out which one works better, one should have a clear idea about their sexual requirements. If you compare ‘how long for Tadalafil to work’ with Sildenafil’s duration of effectiveness, the clear winner is Tadalafil, which can remain effective for up to 36 hours, while Sildenafil may last for four to six hours.
Considering the side effects, we can find similar ones for both medications. But Sildenafil may additionally have some potential side effects like blue-tinted or blurred vision temporarily.
While many people take Tadalafil for ED or erectile dysfunction, it might also help premature ejaculation. Along with Tadalafil (Cialis), other ED drugs like Sildenafil (Viagra) and Avanafil can also be recommended for premature ejaculation.
Both Tadalafil and Sildenafil belong to PDE5 inhibitors, which work by increasing blood flow in the penis. So, both act similarly and are equally effective for getting you harder erections. Moreover, they are also similar to common side effects.
So, while comparing ‘what is stronger tadalafil or sildenafil’ one should remember that there is nothing stronger. Instead, Tadalafil can work a little faster and last longer than Sildenafil. So, you can say it’s not stronger – Tadalafil works differently to meet one’s individual preference.
When someone wants to know “Can you take Tadalafil and Sildenafil together?”, the healthcare providers often prohibit them from taking Tadalafil and Sildenafil together due to their potential interactions that may cause health complications like decreasing blood pressure and other side effects.
Hence, one should take either Tadalafil or Sildenafil to treat ED.
While dealing with erectile dysfunction, you are not alone. With the right medications like Tadalafil and Sildenafil and under the supervision of an expert healthcare professional, you can take care of your sexual health.
Both Sildenafil and Tadalafil are well-researched treatment options for ED, which are safe and effective as approved by the FDA.
However, instead of choosing any one of these medications, you should seek consultation from a healthcare provider to decide on Tadalafil vs Sildenafil dosage.
If you have been experiencing erectile dysfunction for more than a few weeks or it is impacting your sexual relationship or you are not sure how to deal with it, it’s time to consult a doctor. Moreover, seeking medical consultation for ED is also important for choosing the right dosage for Sildenafil or Tadalafil.
Are you ready to take the first step towards restoring your confidence and improving your sexual life with the right ED treatment?
At Your Pill Buddy, we offer discreet and professional consultation to help you find the right treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Our online platform is secure and easy to access ED consultation and personalized ED treatment. Once you are prescribed ED medication from suitable options such as Sildenafil or Tadalafil by a licensed healthcare provider, your medication will be delivered directly to your doorstep in discreet packaging.
