Cialis is indicated for ED treatment and is classified as a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It relaxes penile muscles and vessels, increasing blood flow and leading to an erection. Sildenafil is also among PDE5 inhibitors.
What is the difference between Cialis vs Sildenafil?
Sildenafil has been used to treat ED since 1998. It is an active ingredient of Viagra developed by Pfizer. In 2013, Pfizer’s patent expired, thus making it possible for other companies to produce medications which contain this substance.
Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis. Its main advantage over Sildenafil is the more extended effectiveness period and that it is faster acting. At the same time, these benefits result in some disadvantages: adverse reactions may be more intense and long-lasting. Also, food does not affect the activity of Cialis, whereas food may decrease the effectiveness of Sildenafil.
Unlike Sildenafil, you may take Cialis as needed or once a day. In the second case, the drug’s full effect may be observed after five days of administration. This treatment option is appropriate for men who anticipate more frequent sexual activity, more than twice a week.
| Cialis | Sildenafil | |
| Active ingredient | Tadalafil | Sildenafil |
| Speed of action | 30 minutes | 30-60 minutes |
| Duration of action | Up to 36 hours | 4-5 hours |
| Interaction with food | No | Yes |
| Minimum dose | 2,5 mg for everyday usage or 10 mg as needed | 25 mg |
| Regimen | Daily or as needed | As needed |
| Side effects | Severe | Mild |
Many men prefer Cialis because it allows more freedom and spontaneity in intimate life if taken daily. Moreover, you don’t need to be careful what you eat for the drug to work effectively, as you should do when taking Sildenafil.
Others choose Sildenafil because it has milder adverse reactions, although the medication effect depends on individual characteristics in every case. The best way to find the most appropriate drug for you is to consult a specialist who will prescribe the treatment taking into account such factors as comorbidities, frequency of intimate life, habits, etc.
Conclusion
Cialis and Sildenafil are popular drugs used for ED treatment. They are both classified as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. At the same time, Cialis provides faster and longer effects, while Sildenafil has a lower risk of adverse reactions if you follow the prescribed dose. In general, both drugs have proven themselves well and have been helping millions of men in treating ED.
