When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction, sildenafil, a PDE5 inhibitor taken on-demand to improve blood flow to the penis. Also known as Viagra, it's been the go-to option for decades. tadalafil, another PDE5 inhibitor sold as Cialis, works the same way but lasts much longer. Also known as Cialis, it's the only one approved for daily use at low doses. Both help you get and keep an erection, but they’re not the same drug — and choosing the wrong one can mean wasted money, frustration, or unnecessary side effects.
The biggest difference? Time. Sildenafil kicks in about 30 to 60 minutes after you take it and lasts 4 to 5 hours. Tadalafil starts in about the same window but sticks around for up to 36 hours — that’s why some people call it the "weekend pill." If you want flexibility and spontaneity, tadalafil gives you a wider window. If you prefer taking something only when you need it and want to avoid lingering effects, sildenafil is cleaner. Side effects are similar — headaches, flushing, upset stomach — but tadalafil is more likely to cause back pain or muscle aches in some users. Also, tadalafil works fine with food, while sildenafil can be slowed down by a heavy meal. And if you’re on blood pressure meds, both need caution, but tadalafil’s long half-life means interactions can last longer.
There’s also the daily option. Low-dose tadalafil (2.5mg or 5mg) taken every day can keep you ready without planning ahead — no timing, no pills before sex. Sildenafil doesn’t have a daily version approved for ED in most countries. That makes tadalafil the only real choice if you want consistent, low-maintenance results. But if you’re cost-sensitive, generic sildenafil is usually cheaper per pill than generic tadalafil, especially if you’re only using it a few times a month. Neither fixes the root cause of ED — they just help you respond to stimulation. But they do it reliably for millions of men.
Below, you’ll find real comparisons between these two drugs and their generic versions — from Suhagra and Tadarise to how they stack up against Levitra and Stendra. You’ll see what users actually experience, how insurance handles them, and which one fits your lifestyle, budget, and health profile best.
Compare Viagra Professional (sildenafil) with top alternatives like Cialis, Levitra, and Stendra. Learn which ED pill works best for your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
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