Comparing Erectile Dysfunction Medications: Viagra vs Cialis

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It can have various underlying causes, including physical, psychological, or a combination.

According to studies, erectile dysfunction affects approximately 52% of men aged 40 to 70 years old in the United States.

Signs and Symptoms of ED

The primary sign and symptom of erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. Other signs and symptoms may include:

• Difficulty getting an erection, even with sexual stimulation
• Changes in erection quality
• Difficulty maintaining an erection: Even if an erection is achieved, it may not last long enough to complete sexual activity
• Reduced sexual desire: Some may experience a decrease in libido or interest in sexual activity
• Emotional distress: Erectile dysfunction may lead to feelings of frustration, embarrassment, low self-esteem, or anxiety, particularly in intimate situations
• Relationship problems: Difficulty with sexual performance can strain relationships and lead to tension or conflict between partners

It is important to note that occasional difficulty with erections is normal and may not necessarily indicate erectile dysfunction.

Viagra vs Cialis

Cialis and Viagra stand out as leading options for treating erectile dysfunction. These medications are frequently recommended to those experiencing impotence to help restore a healthy sexual experience. While neither medication is superior to the other, they each possess distinct attributes that make them appropriate for diverse factors.

How They Work

Both Viagra and Cialis are part of a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors with different active ingredients. Viagra contains sildenafil and Cialis uses tadalafil. PDE5 inhibitors work by blocking the action of PDE-5, a protein that breaks down molecules essential for initiating an erection. By inhibiting PDE-5, Viagra and Cialis help relax specific muscles in the penis, increasing blood flow and enabling an erection.

• Viagra: Contains sildenafil as the active ingredient
• Cialis: Contains tadalafil as the active ingredient

It's important to note that these medications do not increase sexual desire. Instead, they assist in helping the penis fill with blood more effectively, thereby facilitating an erection when sexual stimulation occurs.

Indications

Viagra and Cialis are approved for treating erectile dysfunction (impotence). Cialis is also approved for treating begin prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlarged prostate.

• Viagra (sildenafil): Used for erectile dysfunction
• Cialis (tadalafil): Used for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

While how Cialis helps alleviate BPH symptoms is not fully understood, researchers believe it may involve the relaxation of muscles in the prostate, a small gland located in the groin.

Dosing and Administration

Viagra

Viagra is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg

The initial dosage is a single 50 mg tablet. If side effects occur, the dosage should be reduced to 25 mg. If the medication is not producing the desired results, the dosage can be increased to 100 mg.

Viagra should be taken on an as-needed basis, typically 1 hour before sexual activity, but it can be taken anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours beforehand. While Viagra can be taken with or without food, food intake can affect its absorption. For faster absorption, it’s recommended to take it on an empty stomach. If eating is necessary, take the pill at least 1 to 2 hours after a meal. A light, low-fat meal is preferable, as fatty meals and alcohol can delay the onset of Viagra's effects by approximately 1 hour.

It is important to remember that taking more than one dose of Viagra in a day can increase the risk of severe side effects, including dangerously low blood pressure and potential vision loss.

Cialis

Cialis is available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg

Cialis can be taken with or without food. It offers more flexibility in dosing, for both as-needed use or daily use:

• As-Needed Use: The initial dose is 10 mg, taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. Depending on effectiveness and toleration, the dose may be adjusted to 20 mg or reduced to 5 mg. It can take 1-2 hours to feel the full effects, with a maximum of one dose per day.
• Daily Use: For those who engage in sexual activity more frequently, a daily dose of 2.5 mg or 5 mg can be prescribed. This regimen allows for more spontaneity as it eliminates the need to time the medication relative to sexual activity.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Cialis is also prescribed for the treatment of BPH at a dose of 5 mg, taken at the same time each day. This helps in managing the urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate

Duration of Effect

The main difference between Viagra and Cialis lies in the duration of their effectiveness:

• Viagra: Typically remains effective for about 4 to 6 hours, though this can extend up to 8 hours in some individuals. Note that this duration does not mean an erection will last this long. An erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism) is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention, as it can cause permanent damage to penile tissue.
• Cialis: Offers two modes of administration. When taken daily, Cialis maintains effectiveness throughout the day, roughly 24 hours, providing the ability to achieve an erection at any point during this period. On-demand Cialis, on the other hand, can last for up to 36 hours per dose, making it a preferred option for more flexibility regarding sexual activity timing.

These differences in duration mean that each medication suits different needs. Viagra and on-demand Cialis are ideal for men who engage in sexual activity less frequently. In contrast, daily Cialis is tailored for those who are more sexually active, engaging in sexual activity at least twice a week. This makes daily Cialis particularly useful for those who prefer not to time their medication closely with sexual activity.

Side effects

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly sensation)
• Indigestion or upset stomach
• Nasal congestion
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Back pain

Serious Side Effects

• Priapism (an erection lasting longer than 4 hours, requiring immediate medical attention)
• Sudden vision loss (requires urgent medical attention)
• Heart-related complications (such as a sudden drop in blood pressure leading to heart attack, stroke, or irregular heartbeat, particularly in those with pre-existing heart conditions)
• Allergic reactions (including rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty breathing, necessitating immediate medical attention)

Medication Specific Side Effects

Viagra:

• Blurred vision
• Changes in color vision
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Hearing loss or tinnitus (requires immediate medical attention)

Cialis:

• Diarrhea
• Symptoms of a common cold

Individuals considering these medications should discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider, particularly if they have underlying health conditions.

Speak With Your Doctor

It is recommended to speak with your doctor before starting Viagra or Cialis for erectile dysfunction because these medications can interact with other drugs or underlying health conditions. Discussing erectile dysfunction with your doctor can also help identify potential underlying causes that may require further evaluation or treatment beyond medication.