The Great ED Debate: Cialis vs Viagra

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Written By Julie Ingram
Cialis Vs Viagra: Who wins?

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Cialis and Viagra are among the most successful ED pills. 

They are brand-name medications used to reverse the symptoms of impotence. 

Erectile Dysfunction (ED), or impotence, is the inability to get or maintain a firm erection. 

ED may lead to psychological trauma, low self-esteem, and frustration if left untreated.  

Also, ED may indicate underlying health disorders such as heart issues, diabetes, depression, etc. 

So, it is essential to get the appropriate treatment for Erectile Dysfunction. 

Fortunately, there are various ED treatments available, including prescription-based ED pills. 

Viagra reigned supremacy for 5 years until Cialis entered the game. 

According to research, there was an increase in the sales of ED pills in 2020. This increase was driven by an 85% rise in the sale of Tadalafil. 

Both medicines are equally effective in treating Erectile Dysfunction. 

However, they have some key differences that make them unique in their way.

In this article on Cialis vs Viagra, we have elaborated on all the differences that can affect your decision.

Cialis vs Viagra: Key differences

 there is no clear winner in Cialis vs Viagra Check with your doctor before self-medicating.
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Cialis and Viagra both belong to a category of Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. 

Since they belong to the same category, their mechanisms of action for treating ED are identical. 

Viagra and Cialis both inhibit the activity of PDE5 enzymes.

PDE5 enzymes are responsible for breaking down the cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) levels. 

cGMP is a chemical that is synthesized by Nitric oxide during sexual stimulation. It is important for the dilation of penile blood vessels. 

Inhibition of PDE5 enzymes by ED pills restores cGMP levels. This leads to the dilation of penile blood vessels. 

Thus, boosting blood flow to the penis, resulting in a long-lasting erection.

Although they have the same working, there are some notable differences between Viagra and Cialis. 

Cialis vs Viagra: Composition 

Cialis and Viagra work similarly but differ on the grounds of their composition. 

The main active ingredient in Cialis is Tadalafil, while the main salt in Viagra is Sildenafil. 

Tadalafil got its FDA approval on November 21, 2003. 

It was the third PDE5 inhibitor that entered the market. 

Eli Lilly produced and marketed Tadalafil under the brand name Cialis. 

On the other hand, Sildenafil got its FDA approval in 1998. 

It was the first PDE 5 inhibitor that was approved to treat Erectile Dysfunction. 

Pfizer produced and marketed Sildenafil under the brand name Viagra. 

Generic forms of Sildenafil and Tadalafil are now available in the market. They are legally sold and used to treat ED. 

Cenforce and Tadarise are examples of generic tablets containing Sildenafil and Tadalafil, respectively.

Which of the two starts working faster: Cialis or Viagra

As per Healthline, Cialis containing Tadalafil starts showing effects within 30 minutes of consumption. In many cases, it may take up to 2 hours to start working.

Viagra, on the other hand, starts working 30 minutes after consumption. 

Therefore, it can be concluded that Viagra starts working faster than Cialis. 

However, it’s important to note that Cialis and Viagra may not work at the same time for everyone. 

The onset of action depends on many factors like age, the problem’s severity, etc. 

Whose effects last for longer: Viagra or Cialis

Cialis is a clear winner as it has a longer duration of effects than Viagra. 

Cialis remains effective in the body for up to 36 hours. Some cases have even shown 72 hours of effects in the body.

It is also known as the “Weekend pill” due to its long lasting effects.

In contrast, Viagra is a short-acting ED pill. It remains effective in the body for up to 4 hours. 

Due to the long-lasting effects of Cialis, it allows individuals to have spontaneous sex without planning for doses in advance.

However, it’s essential to keep in mind that factors such as metabolism, age, and overall health can affect the duration of the effects. 

Viagra and Cialis dosage

Viagra containing Sildenafil is available in three doses, i.e., 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. 

Generic tablets containing Sildenafil are available in 20mg, 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 120mg, 150mg, and 200mg doses. 

On the other hand, Cialis (Tadalafil) comes in 4 doses, i.e., 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. 

Generic versions of Tadalafil is also available in 60mg dose. 

The maximum Tadalafil and Sildenafil you can consume daily depend on your doctor.

They will decide the maximum amount you can take in a day. It depends on the severity of your condition and your response to the treatment. 

Cialis vs Viagra price

The price of Cialis and Viagra vary depending on the strength of the tablets.

As per drugs .com, the retail price of 100mg of Viagra is around $87.

In contrast, according to drugs.com, Cialis 20mg is available at around $73, and Cialis 5mg is available at $12. 

Therefore, it can be concluded that Viagra is costlier than Cialis. 

The maximum strength of Viagra is available at 100mg. On the other hand, Tadalafil’s maximum strength is 20mg.

However, prices may also vary depending on location, pharmacy, insurance coverage, etc.

In general, generic versions of both medications are less expensive than the brand-name versions.

Generic medicines work the same as brand-name medicines but at lower costs. 

Thus, generic versions are the economic alternatives to brand-name medicines.

For instance, Cenforce is an economical alternative to Viagra. Likewise, Tadarise is an alternative to Cialis. 

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  • Cenforce
  • Tadarise
  • When it comes to Cialis side effects vs Viagra side effects, there is no clear winner.
    Rido

    Cialis vs Viagra side effects

    Due to the exact mechanisms of action, Cialis and Viagra have similar side effects profiles.

    The common side effects of both medicines are 

    • Dizziness
    • Stomach upset
    • Headache
    • Nausea
    • Runny nose

    These side effects require minimal to no medical attention. 

    They are temporary and will wear off once you adjust the dosage. 

    However, some adverse effects are not mutual. For example, 

    • According to a study, back pain and Myalgia rates were higher in Tadalafil (Cialis) than in Sildenafil (Viagra). 
    • In contrast, flushing was lower in Tadalafil (Cialis) than in Sildenafil (Viagra). 

    It is not necessary that you will face any or all side effects. 

    The doctor prescribes these medications only if it benefits you more than the risk of potential side effects.

    Viagra and Cialis dosage

    Viagra containing Sildenafil is available in three doses, i.e., 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. 

    Generic tablets containing Sildenafil are available in 20mg, 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 120mg, 150mg, and 200mg doses. 

    On the other hand, Cialis (Tadalafil) comes in 4 doses, i.e., 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. 

    Generic versions of Tadalafil is also available in 60mg dose. 

    The maximum Tadalafil and Sildenafil you can consume daily depend on your doctor.

    They will decide the maximum amount you can take in a day. It depends on the severity of your condition and your response to the treatment.

    Cialis vs Viagra price

    The price of Cialis and Viagra vary depending on the strength of the tablets.

    As per drugs .com, the retail price of 100mg of Viagra is around $87.

    In contrast, according to drugs.com, Cialis 20mg is available at around $73, and Cialis 5mg is available at $12. 

    Therefore, it can be concluded that Viagra is costlier than Cialis. 

    The maximum strength of Viagra is available at 100mg. On the other hand, Tadalafil’s maximum strength is 20mg.

    However, prices may also vary depending on location, pharmacy, insurance coverage, etc.

    In general, generic versions of both medications are less expensive than the brand-name versions.

    Generic medicines work the same as brand-name medicines but at lower costs. 

    Thus, generic versions are the economic alternatives to brand-name medicines.

    For instance, Cenforce is an economical alternative to Viagra. Likewise, Tadarise is an alternative to Cialis.

    Note
    It is advisable to shop for medicines from authentic online pharmacies like Fordaily Medicine.

    Cialis vs Viagra side effects

    Due to the exact mechanisms of action, Cialis and Viagra have similar side effects profiles.

    The common side effects of both medicines are 

    • Dizziness
    • Stomach upset
    • Headache
    • Nausea
    • Runny nose

    These side effects require minimal to no medical attention. 

    They are temporary and will wear off once you adjust the dosage. 

    However, some adverse effects are not mutual. For example, 

    • According to a study, back pain and Myalgia rates were higher in Tadalafil (Cialis) than in Sildenafil (Viagra). 
    • In contrast, flushing was lower in Tadalafil (Cialis) than in Sildenafil (Viagra). 

    It is not necessary that you will face any or all side effects. 

    The doctor prescribes these medications only if it benefits you more than the risk of potential side effects.

    Warning
    Do not take any ED pills if you are consuming medicines containing Nitrates.
    Erectile Dysfunction pills interact negatively with Nitrates and cause a sharp drop in blood pressure.

    Overview: Cialis vs Viagra

    Although both medicines have the same mode of action, they have many comparable differences.

    BasisCialis Viagra 
    Active ingredientTadalafilSildenafil
    Onset of action30 minutes to 1 hour30 minutes to 2 hours
    Duration of effectUp to 36 hoursUp to 4 hours
    Generic availableYes, Tadalafil is available in generic formsYes, Sildenafil is available in generic forms
    Recommended frequency of useAs needed or daily doseAs needed
    PriceAround $70 for a 20mg tabletRoom temperature (20–25°C)
    The temperature Room temperature (20–25°C)Room temperature (25°C)It may also cause Abnormal Visio
    Common side effectsHeadache, indigestion, back pain, muscle achesHeadache, indigestion, facial flushing

    Cialis vs Viagra, Which is better

    It is incorrect to say that one medicine is better than the other as the effectiveness of Viagra and Cialis is similar. 

    The choice between them depends on your individual needs and preferences.

    For example, if you want a shorter-acting medication, then Viagra is an excellent choice.

    However, if you want a longer-acting medication that allows you to have spontaneous sex, then Cialis may be a better option.

    Therefore, the choice among ED medications is a personal decision.

    The best way to determine the effective medicine for you is by consulting a doctor.

    They will recommend the medicine based on your medical history and other factors.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Is there a pill stronger than Cialis?

      No Erectile Dysfunction medicine is stronger than the other. All ED medicines are equally effective. 
      Adults may prefer Cialis. In contrast, older individuals with health issues tolerate Viagra better.
      This is because Cialis stays in the bloodstream for up to 36 hours, placing older individuals at higher risk of interactions.

    2. Does Cialis make you harder than Viagra?

      Contrary to popular belief, neither Erectile Dysfunction medicine can make you harder than other medicines. 
      All ED pills are equally effective. Therefore, Cialis does not make you harder than Viagra. 
      The only advantage Cialis has over Viagra is that it stays up to 36 hours compared to Viagra’s 4 hours.

    3. How many mg of Cialis is equal to Viagra?

      It’s not appropriate to directly compare the dosages of Cialis and Viagra.
      This is because they have different chemical structures, exposures, and durations of action.
      Therefore, it cannot be said that a certain mg of Cialis is “equal” to Viagra. 
      Your doctor should determine the appropriate dosage for each medication.

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