Today, there are many drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Viagra is considered the most popular drug, which was the first drug of its kind, approved for use in 1998. But it doesn’t mean that later drugs are less effective. For example, Cialis, which appeared in 2003, gives a longer erection. What are the other differences between Сialis vs Viagra?
Both drugs are phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and act under conditions of sexual stimulation. The effect is due to relaxing the muscles of the penis, stimulating blood flow and promoting erection. However, the action of Cialis versus Viagra begins earlier, in the range from 16 to 45 minutes, while for Viagra, this time is from 30 minutes to 1 hour. At the same time, the effect from Cialis lasts up to 36 hours, and that from Viagra is 4 to 5 hours.
Viagra and Cialis have comparable effectiveness: 84% and 81%, respectively. But most men prefer Cialis for several reasons. First, it is the duration of the effect and the fact that you can take the drug before or after meals. As for Viagra, you should take it on an empty stomach as fatty foods can negatively affect its effectiveness. The choice of Viagra or Cialis also depends on other factors.
Is Cialis better than Viagra: what the data say
The question arises: «What’s better — Viagra or Cialis»? There is no definite answer since it depends on the person and his individual characteristics. Many are willing to pay more for the duration of the effect, choosing Cialis. Others want to save money and have more confidence in the reliable Viagra brand.
Otherwise, the difference between Viagra and Cialis isn’t significant since both drugs are of the same class. They have similar side effects and are almost equally tolerated. The only significant difference is the duration of the penile Viagra vs Cialis hardness.
Is 20 mg Cialis equal to 100 mg Viagra by effectiveness?
Given that Cialis can block the PDE5 enzyme more effectively than Viagra, is 20 mg Cialis equal to 100 mg Viagra? Yes, it is. The effect of these drugs in dosages of 20 mg and 100 mg will be almost the same. However, you cannot say that they are entirely equivalent since the half-life of Cialis differs from that of Viagra. For Cialis, it is 17.5 hours, and for Viagra, it is 4–5 hours.
The longer half-life period allows the longer effect of Cialis, which increases the duration of erection from 20 mg Cialis vs 100 mg Viagra. But not everyone needs such a long effect from the drug.
What are the side effects of Cialis vs Viagra?
Because both drugs belong to the same group, they have similar side effects. People often report headaches, nasal congestion, indigestion and vision problems.
At the same time, a longer action of Cialis can lead to longer side effects of Cialis vs Viagra.
Usually, side effects are mild, but there may be exceptions. If you experience very strong side effects while taking the drug, you should consider changing it.
Cialis vs Viagra in bodybuilding
Some men use ED drugs to improve their sports results. According to studies, a group of mountain climbers reported improved endurance after taking Viagra. You can explain it by the vasodilating effect of the drug, which ensures blood flow to the lungs.
However, comparing the effectiveness of Cialis vs Viagra in bodybuilding is incorrect since they are ED medicines and not intended to improve sports results. So, it is unreasonable and even dangerous to use them for sports purposes.
Conclusion
The ED drugs Cialis and Viagra are similar in their action and side effects but differ in dosage and duration of action. You have the opportunity to choose between these two drugs, focusing on your health and the result.
At the same time, it is not recommended to use drugs for other purposes, for example, to improve sports progress: this can lead to undesirable consequences. In any case, to make the right choice, it is advisable to see a doctor.
