Comparison of Tadalafil (Generic Cialis) with Sildenafil (Generic Viagra).

When patients come to us seeking relief from erectile dysfunction, they must first decide whether tadalafil or sildenafil is better. When these drugs were still on patent and marketed as Cialis and Viagra, they were extremely expensive. These were the days of fighting and frequently losing to insurance companies. Now that generics are available, many more patients can benefit from these wonderful, very powerful medications. We frequently recommend that patients using ED drugs for the first time try both independently to evaluate which works best for them and has the fewest adverse effects. Finally, with prices this cheap, there’s minimal financial risk in determining which is best for our patient’s specific needs.

Comparing the mechanisms of action

This implies they slow or stop the action of the body’s phosphodiesterase type 5 enzyme. When a guy is excited, this mechanism causes more blood to flow to the penis. It’s important to note, however, that these drugs do not improve sexual desire. Instead, they allow the penis to better fill with blood, resulting in a satisfying erection. Patients must understand that both of these medicines do not guarantee 100% success and that the success rate is heavily influenced by the severity of ed. Also, patients must understand that it is common to have to raise one’s dose as the ed problem advances, and that nearly all patients who had initial success with ed tablets will eventually lose that success and may require additional assistance.

Comparing Which Works Faster.

Erectile Dysfunction Banner Both medications take about 30 to 60 minutes to start working and allow patients to have the erection they want. Tadalafil reaches its peak concentration in the blood after two hours, while sildenafil takes around one hour. As a result, we usually recommend taking medications around an hour or two before sexual activity. The time it takes for the drug to work varies by patient, so use previous experience as a guide.

It is worth noting that sildenafil, a generic Viagra, can be slightly inhibited after a large meal containing fatty foods, although tadalafil (generic Cialis) is not affected. We frequently recommend sildenafil for married couples or long-term partners who prefer a more predictable sex life. Cialis may be a better option for those who are dating because the large meals that are commonly associated with early dating can make sildenafil ineffective.

Comparing Which Lasts Longer

Tadalafil is the obvious winner when it comes to extending the duration of an erection. Sildenafil is effective for four to six hours, whereas tadalafil can cause erections up to 36 hours after administration, which is more common in younger people or with milder ED. In both circumstances, the medicine does not enhance desire, but rather improves erections when they do occur.

Comparing Side Effects

Sildenafil and tadalafil, like any other medicine, can cause negative effects. Overall, both medications are well tolerated and have few serious side effects.

Patients taking sildenafil may develop headaches, nausea, flushing, a stuffy nose, and, on sometimes, indigestion or disorientation. Patients may also notice a bluish color in their vision. The majority of these adverse effects are temporary and will go away after you stop taking the medication. Loss of vision is a potentially serious adverse effect of sildenafil in certain extremely uncommon clinical settings, and if this occurs, you should discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately, as it can result in irreversible blindness in very rare cases. Patients with specific visual disorders, cardiovascular and metabolic conditions (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes), and smokers may be at an increased risk.

Patients taking tadalafil have slightly diverse side effect profiles. Tadalafil, like sildenafil, can lead to headaches, indigestion, and nasal congestion. However, tadalafil might produce unusual symptoms such as back pain, coughing, and upper respiratory tract infections.

Interestingly, while both medications have side effects, recent research suggests that they may cut the risk of premature death from heart disease by up to 25%. This does not make them a treatment for heart disease, nor does it substitute any other therapies you may be using for cardiovascular concerns.

Both medications have a relatively low risk profile. Tadalafil side effects often linger longer than sildenafil because the medicine stays in the system for a longer period of time.

Comparing Drug Interactions

If you have previously been prescribed ED medicine or are now seeking a prescription, you will almost certainly be asked if you take nitrates. Nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, can produce an abrupt drop in blood pressure, potentially leading to a heart attack or stroke. Patients on nitroglycerin often have major cardiovascular conditions, which make taking ED medication dangerous in the first place. Patients who use recreational “poppers,” such as amyl nitrate, amyl nitrite, and butyl nitrate, should avoid taking ED medications. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist about any drug interactions to ensure your ED medications are safe to take.

Does either medication reverse erectile dysfunction?

Typically, there is a steady progression to ED. However, once erectile dysfunction interferes with sexual activity, it is typically irreversible. Erectile dysfunction drugs enhance blood flow to the penis, at least temporarily. However, the underlying vascular abnormalities linked with ED tend to deteriorate with age, and there is nothing we can do about it. As a result, these medications will eventually cease to provide fulfilling erections, necessitating the consideration of alternative treatments such as injections or penile prosthesis (implants).

The Bottom Line

As mentioned above, each drug has its unique benefit and risk profile, which should be discussed during your consultation. With prices as they are, most patients can safely order both sildenafil and tadalafil to see which works best for them. Of course, if you experience any side effects with either drug, stop and switch to the other medication. If the side effects are severe or long-lasting, seek prompt medical attention.

Category: Healthcare