Cialis and Viagra are two of the most commonly prescribed medications to treat erectile dysfunction. Both drugs are PDE5 inhibitors and, therefore, they act to increase blood flow to the penis, which translates into better erections. Both drugs act in a similar way in treating the same condition; however, there are some distinct differences in Cialis and Viagra. This paper highlights five key factors that make Cialis and Viagra different.
1. Active Ingredient and Duration of Action:
The active ingredient in Cialis is Tadalafil, while Viagra’s active ingredient is Sildenafil. Both are PDE5 inhibitors, but Tadalafil has a longer duration of action compared to Sildenafil. Cialis can last for up to 36 hours, earning it the nickname ‘the weekend pill,’ while Viagra’s effects last for about 4-6 hours. This longer duration of action makes Cialis a more popular choice for those who want a more spontaneous and natural sexual experience without having to plan for taking medication.
2. Onset of Action:
While Cialis has a longer duration of action, it takes longer to start working compared to Viagra. Cialis can take up to 2 hours to reach its peak effectiveness, while Viagra usually takes about 30-60 minutes. This means that if a man wants to have spontaneous sexual activity, Viagra may be a better option as it works faster.
3. Dosage and Frequency:
Cialis and Viagra also differ in their recommended dosages and frequency of use. Cialis is available in different dosages, including 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg, with the recommended starting dose being 10mg. It is usually taken once a day, regardless of when sexual activity is planned. On the other hand, Viagra comes in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg dosages, with the recommended starting dose being 50mg. It is taken as needed, about 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. The frequency of use for Cialis is once a day, while Viagra can be taken as often as once a day but should not be taken more than once in 24 hours.
4. Effectiveness for Different Populations:
Both Cialis and Viagra have been proven to be effective in treating ED in men of all ages. However, Cialis has an added advantage in that it has been approved for use in treating both ED and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that affects the prostate gland in men. It can also be used to treat both ED and BPH simultaneously. Viagra, on the other hand, has not been approved for use in treating BPH.
5. Adverse Effects:
Like any medication, both Cialis and Viagra have potential side effects. The most common side effects of both drugs include headaches, facial flushing, upset stomach, and nasal congestion. However, Cialis has a lower risk of causing visual disturbances compared to Viagra. In rare cases, both drugs can cause a sudden loss of vision or hearing, which requires immediate medical attention.
In summary, in general, Cialis and Viagra are both effective in managing ED, but there are notable differences that make them unique. From their active agents, dosages, and duration of action to their effectiveness for different populations and potential side effects, discussion with healthcare providers is essential to determine which medication best suits an individual’s needs. While they may both have similar goals, those differences make Cialis and Viagra unique in their own right.
