What’s the difference between sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis)?

Tadalafil is used to treat men who have erectile dysfunction (also called sexual impotence). Tadalafil belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These medicines prevent an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type-5 from working too quickly. The penis is one of the areas where this enzyme works.

Erectile dysfunction is a condition where the penis does not harden and expand when a man is sexually excited, or when he cannot keep an erection. When a man is sexually stimulated, his body’s normal response is to increase blood flow to his penis to produce an erection. By controlling the enzyme, tadalafil helps to maintain an erection after the penis is stroked by increasing blood flow to the penis. Without physical action to the penis, such as that occurring during sexual intercourse, tadalafil will not work to cause an erection.

Tadalafil is also used to treat men who have signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is caused by an enlarged prostate. Men with BPH usually have difficulty urinating, a decreased flow of urination, hesitation at the beginning of urination, and a need to get up at night to urinate. Tadalafil will make these symptoms less severe and reduce the chance that prostate surgery will be needed. This medicine is also used to treat erectile dysfunction and signs and symptoms of BPH.

Both sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis) can be used for erectile dysfunction (ED), but there are some differences between them.

  • One difference is that tadalafil (Cialis) is approved to treat both ED and BPH whereas sildenafil (Viagra) can only be used for ED.
  •  Another difference is that sildenafil (Viagra) seems to reach its peak effect more quickly, but tadalafil (Cialis) lasts longer.
  • A third difference is that sildenafil (Viagra) can only be used as needed for ED. But you have the option of taking tadalafil (Cialis) every day. Taking a daily dose of tadalafil (Cialis) might be a better option for people who prefer more spontaneity.

For more about the differences between sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis), talk with your provider.

Leave a Comment