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Tadalafil vs. Sildenafil: Comparing Generic Cialis and Viagra

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Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a frustrating and challenging condition, but medications like Tadalafil (generic Cialis) and Sildenafil (generic Viagra) offer effective solutions. Both drugs belong to the PDE5 inhibitor class, working by enhancing blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal, thereby facilitating an erection.

When was each drug approved to treat ED?

On March 27th, 1998, Viagra became the first oral pill, and the first PDE5 inhibitor, to be approved by the FDA to treat ED. Generic sildenafil was approved in March 2016, and released in December 2017.

Cialis was first approved to treat ED on November 21st, 2003.  It was the third PDE5 inhibitor to come onto the market (after Levitra (vardenafil)). Generic tadalafil was approved in May 2018 and released in September 2018. 

How do Tadalafil and Sildenafil work?

Cialis is the brand name for tadalafil, and Viagra is the brand name for sildenafil. They belong to a class of medicines known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. PDE5 inhibitors work only when a man taking them is sexually aroused, as they rely on the natural release of nitric oxide (NO), a chemical only released during sexual arousal. NO in turn activates other substances to relax the smooth muscle inside the penis to allow the inflow of blood and an erection to occur.  PDE5 inhibitors are similar in structure to cGMP; they competitively bind to PDE5 and inhibit cGMP hydrolysis, thus enhancing the effects of NO. This increase in cyclic GMP in the smooth muscle cells is responsible for prolonging an erection. PDE5 inhibitors lack a direct effect on corpus cavernosum smooth-muscle relaxation.

Duration of Effectiveness:

One of the primary differences between the two lies in their duration of effectiveness. Tadalafil is known for its long-lasting effects, remaining active in the body for up to 36 hours, earning it the nickname “the weekend pill.” This extended window provides greater flexibility and spontaneity for users. On the other hand, Sildenafil typically lasts between 4 to 5 hours, making it more suited for short-term planning.

While the effectiveness of all PDE5 inhibitors is similar; reported effectiveness of sildenafil at 84% is slightly higher than that of tadalafil at 81%. However, more men prefer tadalafil because of its longer duration of effect. We believe Peaks Curative gummies will make even more men prefer tadalafil due to the great taste of our gummies and the fact that they begin to work even faster than tablets or capsules.

How Quickly Do They Work:

When it comes to how quickly these medications begin to work, both are relatively fast-acting, but there are slight differences. Tadalafil usually takes effect within 15 to 45 minutes and can be taken with or without food without affecting its efficacy. Sildenafil, while it begins to work in about 30 minutes, can have its effectiveness reduced if taken with a heavy or high-fat meal. For optimal results, it’s recommended to take Sildenafil on an empty stomach or after a light meal.

Additional Benefits and Uses:

Apart from treating ED, Tadalafil is also approved for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), making it a versatile medication. It can be taken daily in lower doses, which is a convenient option for men who prefer a more spontaneous approach to their sexual activity. Sildenafil, however, is typically taken on an as-needed basis.

Side Effects and Precautions:

Both medications share common side effects such as headache, flushing, and indigestion. However, Sildenafil has a unique side effect where it can cause changes in color perception, which although is quite rare, is not observed with Tadalafil. Moreover, due to its longer duration, Tadalafil poses a higher risk of drug interactions and is not recommended for men with certain cardiovascular conditions or those who have had a heart attack or stroke in the past six months.

Choosing the Right Option for You:

The choice between Tadalafil and Sildenafil depends largely on individual preferences and lifestyle. Tadalafil’s extended duration might be preferable for those seeking flexibility, while Sildenafil’s shorter duration is ideal for those who prefer to time their medication closer to sexual activity. Let’s review some of the main differences between them:

    • Both drugs only work (allow for a man to achieve an erection) when a man is sexually aroused.
    • The effects of tadalafil lasts for approximately 36 hours compared to only 4 to 5 hours for sildenafil.
    • Food does not affect the efficacy of tadalafil, but food may decrease the effectiveness of sildenafil if it is taken shortly after a meal.
    • Tadalafil can be used once daily, at a smaller dosage, and is also effective at treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
    • Dosage of tadalafil may need to be reduced in men with liver or kidney problems and the risk of interactions with other mediations may be higher than with sildenafil.

Our recommendation:

Whether you value the long-lasting effects of Tadalafil or the rapid onset of Sildenafil, Peaks Curative offers both options to meet your needs. If you need more information or a free medical consultation to see if you’re fit for a prescription, visit our ED Treatments site.

Disclaimer: The information provided regarding Peaks Curative compound offerings are for compounded formulations and are NOT an FDA-approved drug label. The suggested formulations are provided for reference only and are based on formulations that have historically been ordered by duly licensed professionals. Compounded products are exempt from FDA approval and no claims are made to the safety and efficacy of any compounded product for any indication or specific use. Learn More Disclaimer: The information provided regarding Peaks Curative compound offerings are for compounded formulations and are NOT an FDA-approved drug label. The suggested formulations are provided for reference only and are based on formulations that have historically been ordered by duly licensed professionals. Compounded products are exempt from FDA approval and no claims are made to the safety and efficacy of any compounded product for any indication or specific use.

Prescribing of the compounds must be based upon the professional judgment of the licensed health care provider after considering the patient's unique medical condition and factors including body weight, size and overall health status. No liability attaches in any way to any actual or alleged injury to any person or any damage to any tangible property if the compounded product is used beyond the scope as prescribed by your physician.

The licensed pharmacist and/or licensed physician maintains the responsibility to ensure compliance with Section 503A of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, including the requirement that a compound be dispensed pursuant to a valid prescription, from a licensed prescriber, for an identified individual patient. The licensed pharmacist and/or licensed physician is also responsible for ensuring that none of the ingredients appear on an exclusion list maintained by the FDA, and that all the ingredients may be lawfully used in pharmacy compounding. Show Less