Viagra vs Cialis: What’s the Difference?

It's predicted that by 2025, 322 million men across the globe will suffer from erectile dysfunction. This common ailment can be embarrassing and it can also lead to marital problems as well as other mental health issues.

Erectile dysfunction might also be a sign of cardiovascular problems.

Luckily, there are ways to overcome erectile dysfunction by taking medications like Viagra or Cialis.

But what's the difference when it comes to Cialis vs Viagra? And which one is right for you?

Continue reading and we'll walk you through everything that you need to know so that you can medicate properly.

Viagra

Viagra is a PDE5 inhibitor and is to treat erectile dysfunction. Viagra is an oral pill and is only effective when the user is sexually aroused.

A PDE5 inhibitor is a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor that is able to decrease pulmonary vascular pressure and prolong an erection.

It takes about 20 minutes for Viagra to take effect and it can last up to 4.5 hours.

Viagra was the first PDE5 inhibitor approved by the FDA to treat erectile dysfunction.

Sildenafil is the main active ingredient in Viagra and was originally being test by Pfizer to treat angina and hypertension. During the clinical trials, however, researchers noticed that sildenafil was more effective at bringing on erections than it was at treating heart disease.

Pfizer realized that erectile dysfunction was a major yet untreated problem and could be an opportunity for huge financial profit.

Viagra was then approved by the FDA in 1998.

How Viagra Works

The main function of Viagra is to help give a man an erection and sustain it when he is sexually aroused.

When a man is sexually aroused, the muscles in his penis relax. This allows for more blood to flow to his penis.

Viagra is able to raise the levels of the substance that is responsible for the tissues relaxing. This increased relaxation of tissue leads to an increased inflow of blood, thus allowing for an erection.

The Side Effects of Viagra

Viagra and other PDE5 inhibitors generally have short-lived and mild side effects. The most common side effects of Viagra are:

• Flushing
• Vision problems
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Nausea

It's rare but possible for a man to have an erection for longer than four hours after having taken viagra. This is known as priapism and if you experience it then you should seek emergency treatment.

You should also contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any sudden vision or hearing loss.

Cialis

Like Viagra, Cialis is a PDE5 inhibitor that is used to treat erectile dysfunction. Cialis is the brand name for tadalafil while Viagra is the brand name for the drug sildenafil.

One big difference between Cialis and Viagra is that, while Viagra only lasts for around 4 hours, Cialis can last as long as 36 hours.

Also, while food might affect the strength of Viagra, it won't have any effect on Cialis.

Cialis is the third PDE5 inhibitor to hit the market, which it did in 2003.

Cialis takes between 16 and 45 minutes to take effect. The effectiveness of Cialis and Viagra is about equal.

Because Cialis lasts so long, it can mean that you'd be at higher risk for drug interactions. Also, you may have to reduce your dosage if you suffer from liver or kidney disease.

Side Effects of Cialis

Like Viagra, the side effects of Cialis typically don't last long and are rarely severe.

The most common side effects include:

• Flushing
• Stuffy nose
• Headache
• Upset stomach
• Muscle or back pain

If you happen to show signs of an allergic reaction to Cialis - such as trouble breathing, swelling of your lips, throat, tongue or face, hives - then seek emergency help.

Also, if you experience chest pain, nausea, or dizziness while having sex after having taken Cialis, you should stop and seek emergency help immediately.

Dosages of Cialis vs Viagra

You should take Viagra on an as-needed basis, around 1 hour before sexual activity, at a dose of 50mg. You can also take Viagra anywhere from half an hour to 4 hours before sex.

If the dose is ineffective, it can be increased to 100mg or even decreased to 25mg if it's too intense.

Even though the effects of Viagra only last for around 4 hours, you should still only take the pill once a day.

Cialis can be taken daily or on an as-needed basis. As-needed doses are usually bigger than daily ones. Cialis is normally taken at a starting dose of 10mg. The dosage can also be increased to 20mg or decreased to 5mg.

When taken for daily use, it's recommended that you start with a dosage of 2.5mg. The timing of the daily dose doesn't matter. You shouldn't take more than one day per day.

Cost of Cialis vs Viagra

Cialis costs around $48 for the 20mg strength and $8.50 for the 5mg strength, per pill.

Viagra is around $35 for the 100mg strength and $24 for the 50mg strength.

The Importance of Knowing the Difference When it Comes to Cialis Vs Viagra

Although Viagra and Cialis share many similarities, it's clear that there are also several important differences between them. Especially when it comes to how long they last and how much each medication costs.

This is why it's so important that you review all of the information for Cialis vs Viagra before you and decide which medication is best suited for your lifestyle and budget.

Are you interested in purchasing prescription medications like Viagra or Cialis? Contact us today and see how we can help you!