Cialis and Viagra: A Comparison for Treating Erectile Dysfunction
- Both Cialis and Viagra are PDE5 inhibitors used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).
- Both medications work when a man is sexually aroused.
- Cialis has a longer duration of action, lasting around 36 hours compared to Viagra’s 4-5 hours.
- Food does not affect the effectiveness of Cialis, while it may decrease the effectiveness of Viagra.
- Cialis can be taken once daily at a lower dosage and is also effective in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Dosage of Cialis may need to be reduced in men with liver or kidney problems, and there may be a higher risk of interactions compared to Viagra.
Ingredients and Mechanism of Action
Cialis contains tadalafil, while Viagra contains sildenafil. Both belong to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These medications work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide (NO), a chemical released during sexual arousal. NO stimulates the relaxation of smooth muscles in the penis, allowing for increased blood flow and an erection to occur.
The onset of action for Cialis is typically within 16 to 45 minutes and is not affected by food. Viagra usually takes effect within 30 minutes, but its effectiveness may be reduced if taken after a high-fat meal.
The reported efficacy of Viagra is slightly higher at 84% compared to Cialis at 81%. However, many men prefer Cialis due to its longer duration of action.
Recommended Dosages
Cialis can be taken as needed or on a daily basis. The usual starting dose is 10mg before sexual activity, with effects lasting up to 36 hours. The dose may be increased to 20mg or decreased to 5mg based on effectiveness and side effects. For daily use, the recommended starting dose is 2.5mg once daily or 5mg for individuals with BPH.
Viagra is taken as needed, with a typical dose of 50mg taken approximately 1 hour before sexual activity. The dose may be increased to 100mg or decreased to 25mg based on effectiveness and side effects. Viagra should not be taken more than once a day, and its effects last for about 4-5 hours.
Common side effects of Cialis include headache and indigestion, while Viagra may cause headache, flushing, and acid reflux. Changes in color vision are rare and do not occur with Cialis.
