Viagra and Cialis are two of the more popular treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED). They’re also both proven when it comes to improving men’s sexual performance.

Here, we’ll look at the key differences between the drugs. From their side effects to their effectiveness, from the time it takes for them to take effect to how long they last – there’s no shortage of differences to explore.

Viagra and Cialis work in the same way. Viagra’s active ingredient is Sildenafil, while Cialis’ active ingredient is Tadalafil. Both of these active agents are PDE5 inhibitors, which handle the PDE5 enzyme, which is responsible for controlling the muscle tone that’s supplied by the penis. They enable blood flow to the penis more easily, which allows you to achieve and maintain an erection.

Sildenafil and Tadalafil work on the very same principle. That explains why potential side effects for both are often similar – and why the two drugs are often grouped together.

What are the Differences?

The main difference between the two drugs is how long each one remains in your system. You should take Viagra one hour before you have sex. You can expect the drug to remain effective for around four to six hours.

So it’s suitable for a night of lovemaking. You’ll need to plan it in advance, of course, or at least know some hours before.

Cialis remains in your system for far longer. Its full effects kick in quickly, i.e. often half an hour before you think you’ll need them to. And it remains in your system for 36 hours, at least.

So Cialis allows for more spontaneity than Viagra, as you don’t need a certain window for sex. That’s why Cialis is referred to as the “weekend pill” – as you’ll be ready the whole weekend.

Which is the Most Effective?

So now we’re getting to the crux of the article: Viagra vs Cialis which is better? While the two drugs work on different rhythms, they’re pretty much the same when it comes to their effectiveness. Studies have shown that they’re effective in around 60 to 80 percent of men with ED, dosage-dependent. 

One trial showed that Viagra was effective in 82 per cent of men with ED, while Cialis was effective in 81 per cent of cases. So the difference is negligible. One thing to take into account, however, is that your diet affects Viagra. Taking Viagra on a high-fat meal will slow its effect. This isn’t the case with Cialis.

What are the Side Effects?

As the two drugs are similar, the same is also true of their side effects. These side effects can include nasal congestion, flushing, dizziness, headaches, and limited blurred vision.

While very rare, side effects of both can include priapism, which is a long-lasting and painful erection that can last for hours – as well as temporary negative effects on hearing or sight. If any of these occur, you should get in touch with a doctor right away.

The main difference in side effects is the rate they occur. Changes in vision are a more common side effect of Viagra, whereas muscle pain is a more common side effect of Cialis.

Side effects vary from one person to the next. It’s generally believed that Cialis produces less of the most common side effects, however.

Which One is Safer?

Both Viagra and Cialis are safe to use and are both licensed. And while it’s believed that men tolerate Cialis better, that’s yet to be clinically confirmed.

PDE5-inhibitors are potentially dangerous for men on drugs that contain nitrates, i.e. heart disease drugs, such as those for serious cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or angina. It also isn’t recommended that Viagra or Cialis be taken with alcohol, as it can result in lower blood pressure and could affect the drug’s response by affecting libido and blood flow.

If you’re planning on taking any of these drugs, speak to a doctor. This is especially true if you have health problems such as a heart condition.

Which One Should You Choose?

The effects of the two drugs aren’t identical to everyone that takes them. Either Viagra or Cialis can work better for one person more than another. For the person standing next to you, however, they may get greater side effects on that very same drug.

In fact, when you’re choosing which one to commit to, it’s a good idea to try both to figure out which one is best for you.