Tadalafil and Sildenafil are both medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and, in some cases, other medical conditions. They belong to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and work by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping men achieve and maintain an erection.
Here is some information about each of these medications:
- Sildenafil:
- Sildenafil is the generic name for the brand-name drug Viagra. It was the first PDE5 inhibitor approved for the treatment of ED.
- It works by inhibiting the enzyme PDE5, which regulates blood flow to the penis. By doing so, it allows for increased blood flow when a man is sexually aroused, which helps him achieve and sustain an erection.
- Sildenafil is usually taken on an as-needed basis, typically about 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. The effects can last for about 4 to 6 hours.
- Common side effects include headache, facial flushing, upset stomach, and changes in vision (such as blurred vision or a blue tint to objects). In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur.
- Tadalafil:
- Tadalafil is the generic name for the brand-name drugs Cialis and Adcirca. It is another PDE5 inhibitor used to treat ED but has some unique features.
- One key advantage of tadalafil is its longer duration of action. It can remain effective for up to 36 hours, which has earned it the nickname "the weekend pill." This extended window of effectiveness allows for more spontaneity in sexual activity.
- Tadalafil can be taken on an as-needed basis or as a daily low-dose medication for men who have frequent sexual activity. The daily dose is lower than the as-needed dose.
- Common side effects are similar to those of sildenafil and can include headache, back pain, muscle aches, and indigestion.