Table of Contents
III. How Cialis and Viagra Work
IV. Differences Between Cialis and Viagra
V. Can Cialis and Viagra Be Taken Together?
When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction (ED), Viagra has long been the go-to medication for many men. However, it's important to know that other options are available, and one of the most popular alternatives is Cialis.
Both medications are designed to help men struggling with erectile dysfunction, but they have their own unique characteristics that may better suit different individuals.
In this article, we will explore Viagra and Cialis in more detail, comparing how they work, their dosing, durations of action, side effects, and other factors so you can determine which treatment option may be right for you.
Understanding Viagra
Viagra, commonly referred to as the "little blue pill," is an oral medication that was approved by the FDA in 1998 to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). The active ingredient in Viagra is sildenafil, which is available in three dosages: [1]
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg [1]
The 50 mg dose of Viagra is the most common starting point. If a higher dosage is needed for erectile dysfunction, doctors may increase the prescription to 100 mg. On the other hand, if you experience side effects, the dose may be decreased to 25 mg. [1]
Viagra is meant to be taken as needed about 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. It dissolves quickly in the bloodstream and reaches peak effects within one to two hours after taking the pill. The effects of Viagra tend to last around 4 hours. [1]
Understanding Cialis
Cialis is often referred to as "the weekend pill" because of its long-lasting effects. A single dose can work for up to 36 hours, allowing more spontaneity and flexibility with sexual activity. [2]
Cialis was first approved by the FDA in 2003 for treating:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) [2]
Cialis comes in two formulations:
- Cialis Daily
- Cialis as-needed [2]
Cialis Daily
Cialis Daily is taken every day, ensuring that the medication is always in your system. [2] If you are having regular sexual activity, Cialis Daily is a convenient option as you do not have to plan intimate moments around an ED medication.
In addition, the constant presence of Cialis Daily in your system means the dosage is lower than that of on-demand Cialis. This lower dose helps prevent side effects that some men may experience when taking higher doses of Cialis. [2]
When starting Cialis Daily, your doctor will likely prescribe a dosage of 2.5 mg daily. If, after some time, you find you need more support for erectile dysfunction, your doctor may increase the dosage to 5 mg daily. [2]
Cialis As-Needed
Cialis as-needed is taken for occasional intimate moments. This version of Cialis is taken 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity and can last for up to 36 hours. [2]
Because Cialis as-needed is only taken occasionally, the medication comes in higher doses than the daily version. When starting Cialis as-needed, your doctor will likely prescribe a dosage of 10 mg. This dosage can be adjusted based on your response: [2]
- If you need more support for your ED, the dosage can be increased to 20 mg.
- If you experience side effects, the dosage can be decreased to 5 mg. [2]
Mechanisms of Action: How Cialis and Viagra Work
While the active ingredients in Cialis (tadalafil) and Viagra (sildenafil) differ, both drugs are phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors that work in similar ways. [1] [2]
When you become aroused, a series of chemical reactions in the body triggers an increase in blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection. Eventually, the body produces an enzyme called PDE5, which reverses the process and causes the erection to subside. [1]
PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra and Cialis work by blocking PDE5, allowing the chemical reactions that enable an erection to continue. [1]
It's important to understand that Viagra and Cialis are only effective once you have already achieved an erection. They support the chemical reactions that enable erections but don't cause them directly. By inhibiting PDE5, these ED drugs simply help maintain erections for longer. [1]
Differences Between Cialis and Viagra
Though Cialis and Viagra both work in the same way to treat ED, there are some important differences between the two medications that are useful to know when deciding which one is right for you.
Viagra vs. Cialis: Which One Works Faster?
Both Viagra and Cialis take around 30 to 60 minutes to begin working after taking a dose. [3] However, the peak effect for Viagra occurs faster than Cialis.
- Cialis: Peak effects are seen two hours after taking a dose.
- Viagra: Peak effects are seen one hour after taking a dose. [3]
It's worth keeping in mind that the exact time it takes for ED medications to start working and reach peak effects can vary depending on factors such as age, metabolism, and medical history. Therefore, following your doctor's instructions and taking the medication as directed is important. [3]
An important factor to consider when taking Viagra is the timing of your meals. Eating a large, fatty meal before taking the medication can delay its absorption and the speed at which it starts working. While it's not necessary to take Viagra on an empty stomach, it's a good idea to avoid taking it immediately after a heavy meal. This isn't a concern with Cialis, which can be taken regardless of food intake. [3]
Viagra vs. Cialis: Which One Lasts Longer?
Cialis is often called “the weekend pill” due to its long-lasting effects compared to other ED medications. While Viagra is only effective for around 4 hours after taking it, [1] a single dose of Cialis can work for up to 36 hours. [2]
If you are only planning on occasional intimacy, Viagra's duration may be sufficient for your needs. However, if you're planning on more frequent intimacy, Cialis' long-lasting effects will be more beneficial for you.
It's important to understand that neither Viagra nor Cialis will give you an erection for their entire duration of action. These medications work with your body's natural system to help maintain an erection until orgasm is achieved. They don't cause an erection to happen on their own.
If you experience an erection lasting for more than four hours while taking Viagra or Cialis, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. This condition is known as priapism and can cause permanent damage if left untreated. [4]
Viagra vs. Cialis: Dosage Differences
When choosing between Viagra and Cialis, an important consideration is how often you plan to be intimate. This can help determine which medication may better fit your lifestyle.
- For frequent or spontaneous intimacy, a daily medication like Cialis Daily may be preferable so you do not have to plan or schedule when to take a dose.
- For occasional intimate moments, an as-needed medication like Viagra or Cialis as-needed can be more financially practical since you only take it when necessary.
The right medication for you depends on your specific needs and situation. Discuss your options with your doctor to determine what will work best for your lifestyle. The goal is to find an option that effectively and affordably supports your intimate life.
Can Cialis and Viagra Be Taken Together?
While some studies have suggested that combining Cialis and Viagra can boost effectiveness for some men, [5] it's important to know that taking these ED medications together without your doctor's guidance is not recommended. Combining these drugs in an uncontrolled manner can significantly increase your risk of side effects and serious complications.
Both Cialis and Viagra work by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow, which can also lower blood pressure. Taking multiple ED medications together can amplify this effect and result in a dangerous drop in blood pressure. [1]
If you're currently taking Viagra or Cialis as prescribed but are still having issues with ED, have an open conversation with your doctor. They can properly assess your situation, monitor for any risks, and determine the best approach to improving your condition. This may involve adjusting your current dosage or exploring alternative ED treatment options.
Conclusion
When it comes to ED treatment, there are many options available today. Cialis and Viagra are two of the most well-known options, and each has its own benefits depending on your needs and lifestyle.
When deciding on an ED medication, take some time to reflect on your lifestyle and relationship. This can help determine whether Cialis or Viagra is the better fit for your needs.
The content provided in this article is based on thorough research and in some cases, reviewed by a medical professional. Our goal for the information is to provide helpful, general health informational. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.