When it comes to erectile dysfunction medications for the treatment of ED, two names stand tall: Cialis® and Viagra®. These two drugs are proven options with an excellent track record for men looking to revitalize intimacy and confidence in getting an erection. Choosing which one is best for you may cause confusion because both drugs have subtle differences. In this article, we will help you navigate between the distinctive qualities of Cialis and Viagra and help you decide which one is best for you.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a male medical condition in which men cannot have or maintain an erection or can't keep it long enough for sex. Reports say ED affects as many as 30 million men in the USA.
Of course, it is not rare for men to sometimes have issues with having an erection, even in intimate situations. However, it can become a problem when it is frequent.
Various factors cause erectile dysfunction, including:
- Physical Factors: These factors can include conditions that affect blood flow to the penis, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Some neurological and hormonal imbalances can also cause it.
- Psychological Factors: They include stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional factors.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol composition, drug abuse, and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the chances of developing erectile dysfunction.
Types of Erectile Dysfunction Medications
Four main drugs are FDA-approved (Food and Drug Administration) for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. These erectile dysfunction drugs are also called PDE5 inhibitors. You need a doctor's prescription in the United States to get these drugs, as they can not be over the counter.
The four main drugs taken for erectile dysfunction are
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Tadalafil (Cialis)
- Avanafil (Stendra)
- Vardenafil (Levitra)
How Do Viagra And Cialis Work?
Viagra is a well-known medication used to treat Erectile dysfuncCialis's). It contains an active ingredient called Sildenafil Citrate. Sildenafil was initially a treatment for angina, a type of chest pain caused by certain heart conditions. However, they found it was more effective for treating erectile dysfunction than angina.
The ingredient in Viagra belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Viagra works by inhibiting the enzyme PDE5, which is responsible for the breakdown of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the penis. When cGMP levels increase, it relaxes the smooth muscle in the blood vessels of the penis, allowing for increased blood flow, which is essential for achieving and maintaining an erection.
Cialis came into existence after Viagra, but that doesn't make it any less effective. Cialis contains an ingredient called Tadalafil, which is also a PDE5 inhibitor. Like Sildenafil, tadalafil helps increase blood flow in the soft tissue of the penis, allowing individuals to achieve and maintain an erection. It is not only used to treat erectile dysfunction but is also used to treat a form of enlarged prostate that's common in middle and older men, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Which One Is More Effective: Cialis Vs. Viagra?
Viagra and Cialis are equally effective in ED treatment since they work the same way, i.e., as primarily PDE5 inhibitors, so their pathways in the body are similar. However, some reports claim that while Viagra is up to 84% effective, Cialis is a bit short at 81%, a negligible difference in reality. So rather than effectiveness, while choosing between Cialis and Viagra, you may want to consider how long they take to kick in or how long they last.
Which Drug Kicks In Faster: Cialis Vs. Viagra?
When it comes to on-set action, Viagra is pretty quick. Typically, viagra starts working in as little as 30 minutes. However, to experience its full effects, it could take up to 45 minutes to an hour. You may also start experiencing Cialis's effects in around 30 minutes. However, the full effects of this drug can take a bit longer than 45 minutes, as in Viagra. Cialis can take up to 2 hours before fully kicking in.
The difference in the time it takes for each drug to kick in fully may also be affected by other factors controlled by or involving the person taking it, for example, the person's diet and metabolism rate.
Viagra Vs. Cialis Vs. Food: Are Viagra And Cialis Affected By Food?
You can take Viagra with or without food, but if you want it to kick in as soon as possible, it's better to take it without food. Taking Viagra on an empty stomach helps you achieve a more long-lasting erection and works quicker. Taking Viagra with a high-fat meal can slow down the drug's absorption, delaying and shortening its effect.
Cialis, on the other hand, is not in any way affected by food. Whether you've had a meal or you're taking it on an empty stomach, Cialis works the same. This perhaps makes it a better option if you're a frequent eater and you don't want to forgo food time for sex.
Which Drug Lasts Longer: Cialis Or Viagra
One of the significant reasons why Cialis is a great competitor for Viagra is how much longer it lasts. Thanks to its impressive performance, it earned the nickname “the weekend pill†among its users. Cialis typically remains effective for a staggering 36 hours. That's one and a half days, which could be too much or just right, depending on your sexual needs! If you're looking for a whole weekend of sex and excitement, then Cialis may work just great.
Saying that Cialis lasts 36 hours does not mean you'll have a walking erection for the whole period. It just means you'll be able to achieve a satisfactory erection over that time.
Viagra, however, offers only up to 5-7 hours. So, compared to Cialis, it's much shorter that it's almost a letdown. However, it's still just as effective, or even more so, if you count the additional 3%! While Cialis is called the weekend pill, Viagra would be great if you want a burst of activity. It's essential also to consider dosage when talking about how long they last, but we'll get to that in a bit.
Can Viagra or Cialis Make You Last Longer In Bed?
Viagra and Cialis primarily treat erectile dysfunction, so they help with erection. However, they don't necessarily help you last longer. Of course, viagra and Cialis help with your mindset and confidence, so you may indeed last longer, but that would be akin to a placebo effect and not a direct effect of the drugs. So unless you already have a problem staying erect during sex, these drugs won't help.
They also don't affect your ejaculation. Meaning they don't help with the treatment of premature ejaculation. However, they'll reduce the refraction time so you can get an erection soon after ejaculating.
It's important to mention, however, that premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction can be concurrent. In this case, professional health consultation may be necessary. However, it could be that the ED causes premature ejaculation, or there are underlying factors such as mental health, diabetes, etc.
It may be possible to treat them using ED treatments like Viagra and Cialis, testosterone therapy, counseling, etc.
Viagra and Cialis Dosage
When it comes to Cialis, there are two main types to consider, each with its unique characteristics:
- Daily Cialis (Generic Daily Cialis): This form of Cialis is a daily medication. It offers smaller dosages than generic Cialis, making it suitable for those seeking continuous support. The typical starting dose for generic daily Cialis is 2.5 to 5 mg, taken once daily. This regimen ensures a consistent level of Tadalafil in your bloodstream after about 5 days, which means you're always ready for action, responding effectively to sexual arousal and stimulation.
- Generic Cialis: This version of Cialis is taken 30-40 minutes before engaging in sexual activity. The standard starting dose is 20 mg, but this can be reduced for those who experience intolerable side effects.
Choosing the right Cialis option depends on your needs and preferences. Daily Cialis provides ongoing support, while generic Cialis is for on-demand use. Select the one that aligns best with your lifestyle and enjoy the benefits of Tadalafil when you need it most.
- Viagra (Generic Viagra). Viagra is an on-demand medication. There's no daily dose prescription for Viagra. It's often started at a 50mg dosage and taken about an hour before sex. Although, you can take it at most 30 minutes or at least 4 hours before. The Viagra dosage may be increased or decreased based on its effects. An increase to 100mg is possible if it seems ineffective or if you're experiencing side effects, then it may be reduced to 25mg.
Side Effects Of Viagra And Cialis
Like many medications, Viagra and Cialis may have side effects that tend to improve over time. These side effects are generally mild, but in rare cases, they may be severe.
The similarity between these two ED medications extends to their side effects, meaning it's possible to experience similar side effects when using Viagra or Cialis. Some side effects common to both ED medications include headaches, muscle pain, back pain, indigestion, and flushing.
The side effects that are specific to Viagra, however, include vision change or color perception, dizziness, and rash. With Cialis, the user may experience limb pain, which isn't a common side effect with Viagra.
These side effects should be mild and typically improve with time. However, If they get very serious or unbearable, it's necessary to seek help and talk to your doctor or health professional. They may advise a dosage reduction or total stoppage.
Do Viagra And Cialis Have Any Drug Interactions?
Before you start using Viagra or Cialis alongside other drugs, you must talk to your healthcare professional and let them know if you are taking medications. This is because these ED medications might not interact well with some drugs. Viagra or Cialis might not work or be dangerous if you already use the following medicines.
- Nitrate medicine: If you're on any nitrate medication like nitroglycerin (Nitro-Dur and Nitrostat), isosorbide mononitrate (Monoket), and isosorbide dinitrate (Bidil), or other drugs used to treat hypertension, it is advisable not to use Viagra and Cialis. If used together, nitrates and PDE5 can cause a drop in your blood pressure, making you dizzy, lightheaded, or even faint. It can also lead to serious health problems like cardiovascular issues.
- Alpha-blockers: These drugs are common for treating enlarged prostate or male pattern baldness. They include dutasteride (Avodart, Jalyn) and finasteride (Propecia, Proscar).
- Alcohol: It is advisable that while you're on these ED medications, you should avoid drinking alcohol. Combining alcohol and PDE5 inhibitors can lead to a condition called orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure).
- Grapefruit and Grapefruit juice: While using Viagra, it is advisable to avoid anything that contains grapefruit, and this can affect the way your body metabolizes Sildenafil and Tadalafil, which are the active ingredients in Viagra and Cialis.
Additionally, you should either consult your healthcare professional or avoid using Viagra and Cialis if you have the following:
- Very low blood pressure (hypotension) or very high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Severe liver disease
- Kidney disease with dialysis.
- Recent heart or blood vessel problems like heart attack and stroke.
Choose the Perfect ED Medication for You.
Cialis and Viagra are great medications for treating ED. Even though Viagra typically does require a higher dosage, they are equally effective. Although Cialis lasts longer, Viagra leaves the body faster than Cialis, and this is great if you're especially concerned about the side effects. Viagra also kicks in more quickly but is most effective on an empty stomach, while Cialis is not dependent on food.
Both medications come with their advantages and disadvantages. If you're uncertain about which option to go for, Male Excel offers a convenient solution to help you decide. They will check your medical history during an online consultation and, if suitable, provide a prescription so you can have your medication delivered to your doorstep.
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