Cialis Vs Viagra: Similarities, Differences, & Which Is Best for You

What Is Cialis (Tadalafil)?

Cialis (tadalafil) is a medication FDA-approved as a medication for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Having an FDA approval indicates that the drug has been reviewed by regulatory bodies and determined that it provides benefits that outweigh its known and potential risks for the population it is intended for. Cialis belongs to the phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor family of medications, also known as PDE-5 inhibitors.

Cialis may also have off-label uses, which is defined as a use that is not FDA-approved, where a physician, using their professional judgment, decides that there is a clinical benefit to using the drug for a different purpose. An off-label use for Cialis is as a medication for premature ejaculation associated with erectile dysfunction. ^{1, 2} It is important to note that Cialis is not a cure for erectile dysfunction, and it does not increase sexual desire, protect them from STIs, or serve as the male form of birth control.

What Is Viagra?

Viagra (sildenafil) is a medication FDA-approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Viagra is one of the oldest erectile dysfunction medications in use, and it also belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor class of medications. Like Cialis, this medication has similar off-label uses with the difference being that the active ingredient, sildenafil, is FDA-approved in the use of pulmonary hypertension.

Viagra, like Cialis, is taken as needed before sex and does not need to be taken regularly each day.^{3, 4} Off-label, this medication can be used to treat premature ejaculation associated with erectile dysfunction.

What Are the Differences Between Cialis & Viagra?

Cialis and Viagra have similarities because they belong to the same class of medications. However, there are differences that may help patients choose which one is right for them. The notable differences between the two medications involve their duration of action as well as how to take them to ensure maximum effectiveness. There are also common side effects that are associated with Cialis and not Viagra, and vice versa.

Here are the key differences between Cialis versus Viagra:^{1, 2, 3, 4}

How Do Cialis & Viagra Work?

Cialis and Viagra both belong to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, also known as PDE5 inhibitors. This class of medications works by relaxing the blood vessels and increasing blood flow, which may help lead to an erection. It should be noted that while these medications may help with erectile dysfunction, you still need sexual stimulation for these medications to have effect.^{2, 4}

What Are Cialis & Viagra Used to Treat?

Cialis and Viagra are approved by the FDA to treat multiple conditions. Both of them are intended to treat erectile dysfunction. They may also be used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, although they are marketed under different brand names for this purpose.

The table below compares the medical and mental health conditions Cialis and Viagra are used to treat:^{1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6}

Is Cialis Better Than Than Viagra?

The effectiveness of all medications within the PDE5 family is similar. This effectiveness can be affected by whether the medication is taken correctly and if other substances or medications have been taken, that may result in a drug interaction. All erectile dysfunction medications are equally safe and effective, having gone through testing to ensure their usage for patients.

Does Cialis or Viagra Last Longer?

There is a noticeable difference in how long each drug’s effects last. During clinical trials, Cialis lasted up to 36 hours, while Viagra’s duration was about 4 to 6 hours.^{1, 2, 3, 4} It is important to note that while these medications can remain in the body for several hours, erections should not last longer than 4 hours. If this occurs, immediate medical care is necessary. Also, sexual stimulation is still needed in order for an erection to occur, and taking either Cialis or Viagra will not cause one to occur otherwise.

Does Cialis or Viagra Work Faster?

Cialis and Viagra are both medications meant to be used as needed for erectile dysfunction.^{2, 4} They are both fast-acting drugs, with Cialis and Viagra taking approximately 30 minutes to work. However, absorption of Viagra is affected by high-fat meals. For best results, Viagra should be taken 1 hour before sexual activity.

Cialis Vs. Viagra Dosages

Cialis and Viagra are provided as oral tablets that are meant to be swallowed whole. For erectile dysfunction, Cialis dosage is typically 10 mg as needed for sexual encounters, while Viagra dosage is started at 50 mg. Dosages can be lower or higher depending on your response to the medications, and your dosage can look different from others as dosages vary from person to person. It is important to take medication as prescribed to ensure that your therapy works efficiently and safely.

Cialis is available in the following forms and strengths:^{1, 2}

• 2.5 milligrams (mg) oral tablet
• 5 mg oral tablet
• 10 mg oral tablet
• 20 mg oral tablet

Viagra is available in the following forms and strengths:^{3, 4}

• 25 milligrams (mg) oral tablet
• 50 mg oral tablet
• 100 mg oral tablet

Side Effects of Cialis & Viagra

Both medications belong to the same drug class, meaning that they typically produce similar side effects in patients should they experience them. Cialis and Viagra have side effects that are often mild, though serious side effects that require immediate medical care may occur. In Cialis, back pain and muscle aches are a unique side effect that usually goes away within 2 days.

Common side effects from taking Cialis may include:^{1, 2}

• Headache
• Indigestion
• Back pain
• Muscle ache
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Flushing
• Pain in the limbs

Serious side effects from taking Cialis may include:^{1, 2}

• Priapism (a prolonged, painful erection)
• Sudden hearing loss
• Serious vision changes, including vision loss
• Low blood pressure
• Allergic reaction
• Cardiovascular problems, including heart attack

Common side effects from taking Viagra may include:^{3, 4}

• Headache
• Flushing
• Dizziness
• Nasal congestion
• Indigestion
• Abnormal vision
• Rash
• Muscle pain

Serious side effects from taking Viagra may include:^{3, 4}

• Priapism (a prolonged, painful erection)
• Sudden hearing loss
• Serious vision changes, including vision loss
• Low blood pressure
• Allergic reaction
• Cardiovascular problems, including heart attack

*All medications, including Cialis and Viagra, have a risk of side effects, including serious side effects. This is not a complete list of side effects. You should talk with your healthcare professional about the benefits and risks of any medication before starting treatment.

Warnings & Precautions for Cialis & Viagra

The warnings for Cialis and Viagra are similar due to the fact that they belong to the same drug class. The warnings and precautions with these medications are associated with their effects on blood pressure. In combination with conditions or other substances, there may be unintended side effects that may be serious. If you experience any symptoms of these warnings, seek immediate medical care.

Risks to consider when taking Cialis and Viagra include:^{1, 2, 3, 4}

• Allergic reactions: Sensitivity to the medication or its components may result in allergic reactions. Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction include slow heart rate, hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the lips, face, or throat.
• Severe drop in blood pressure: Cialis and Viagra can lower blood pressure in patients, which is typically of little consequence in most patients, but those with underlying cardiovascular disease could be affected adversely. Some combinations of medications or substances, such as antihypertensives, with Cialis and Viagra, may also worsen these effects.
• Those with cardiovascular problems: There is a certain degree of cardiac risk associated with sexual activity. Those with underlying cardiac statuses should avoid taking Levitra and Viagra.
• People who take alpha-blockers: Patients on alpha-blockers should be cautioned with their use of Cialis and Viagra. Blood pressure may be lowered significantly and lead to problems like fainting.
• Effects on the eyes: There is a risk of developing an eye condition called NAOIN, a rare condition that can result in decreased vision and even permanent vision loss. Patients on Cialis or Viagra should seek immediate medical care should they experience a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• Risk of Priapism: Cialis and Viagra carry a risk of a prolonged erection. In the event that an erection lasts for more than 4 hours, patients should seek immediate medical care.
• Sudden hearing loss: Sudden hearing loss, sometimes accompanied by tinnitus and dizziness, may occur. Patients should seek immediate medical care and stop taking Viagra or Cialis.
• Sexually transmitted infections: Cialis and Viagra do not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Patients should be counseled on using protective measures to guard against STIs.
• Alcohol: Combined usage of these medications with alcohol may cause blood vessels to dilate, resulting in blood-lowering effects. Substantial consumption of alcohol in combination with these medications may increase the risk of symptoms such as increased heart rate, decrease in standing blood pressure, dizziness, and headache.

Potential Drug Interactions With Cialis & Viagra

Cialis and Viagra may affect your blood pressure, especially in combination with other substances. Your blood pressure can become too low, resulting in symptoms such as becoming dizzy or fainting. Certain substances, when combined with Cialis or Viagra, may trigger a drop in blood pressure, including nitrates, alpha-blockers, amlodipine, and other medications meant to control high blood pressure.

Do not take either medication with nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, and other recreational drugs, as doing so can lead to a dangerous and sudden drop in blood pressure that may require emergency medical care. While taking Cialis or Viagra, you should let your physician know what medications and substances you take to avoid potential interactions.^{1, 2, 3, 4}

Disclaimer: Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Cialis and Viagra can change how these medications work in your body or increase the risk of serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Cialis Vs Viagra Price

As a general rule, the generics of these medications will be a more affordable option compared to the brand-name medications. The price without insurance or coupons can be hundreds of dollars if you are filling the brand name medications.⁷ If your insurance may not cover these medications, there may be other options available to help cover the cost, such as discounts and coupons.

A Viagra manufacturer coupon is available where that can help save up to $4200 per year if you are eligible.⁸ There is no patient copay assistance available for Cialis. Discount cards found online may also save you money. The price of the drug will vary depending on the strength prescribed, the quantity filled, and which pharmacy you are filling the medication with. With a coupon, the price can range from around $20 to under $100 for generic medications.

Which Is Right for You: Cialis or Viagra?

Which medication is right for you depends on several factors. No two people are the same, and what might be a good option for one person, may not be a good fit for another. For example, Cialis does not have meal considerations like Viagra, and it has a longer duration of effect, but it has the unique side effect of muscle and back pain to consider.

A doctor will consider the benefits and risks of each medication, drug interactions, and preexisting conditions you may have that could influence your therapy. If seeing a doctor in person is a barrier for you, then you may need to consider online psychiatry services.

Lifestyle Considerations

There are lifestyle factors to consider when deciding between Cialis and Viagra. For example, both medications should be taken about 30 minutes before sexual activity, but Viagra may be taken as early as 4 hours prior to the event. Your diet may also be another consideration in your choice, with Viagra being affected by high-fat meals while Cialis has no special meal considerations.

The duration of action for these medications may also be a deciding factor, with the time between taking the drug and the sexual activity having a gap of up to 36 hours after taking Cialis or up to 6 hours after taking Viagra. While it is important to note that while they may help with sexual activity, erections are not supposed to last more than 4 hours.

Personal Tolerance & Side Effects

How well a person tolerates a medication varies from individual to individual. Side effects may influence which medication is chosen for erectile dysfunction as well as other conditions. The side effects of Cialis and Viagra are similar since they share the same class of medications, such as indigestion, headaches, muscle pain, and flushing. Cialis also has a common reaction unique to it where some patients may experience pain in the limb, while Viagra can cause abnormal vision. Discussing with a doctor about potential side effects can help you determine which medication may be right for you.

How to Get a Prescription for Cialis & Viagra

Cialis and Viagra are only available via a prescription written by an authorized prescriber. Doctors such as general practitioners and endocrinologists can write you these prescriptions as well as providers such as nurse practitioners. Your doctor will assess if these medications are right for you, asking questions pertaining to your erectile dysfunction, and then they will send a prescription over to your pharmacy for it to be filled.

Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Cialis & Viagra

When starting Cialis or Viagra, have a list of questions to ask your provider so that you and your doctor can make an informed decision on whether this medication is right for you. Personal factors, such as your current medical conditions and medications, may influence which medication is right for you.

Questions to ask your prescriber about Cialis and Viagra include:

• Is it safe to take Cialis or Viagra with my other medications?
• Will Cialis or Viagra be covered by my insurance?
• Which one has the best results as a treatment for erectile dysfunction?
• Does my medical history increase my risk of side effects for either?
• How long can I expect side effects to last?
• How often should I see you for checkups while taking Cialis or Viagra?
• What should I do if I am unsure whether erectile dysfunction medications are right for me?
• Which medication will work best with my lifestyle?