Sildenafil Vs. Tadalafil: What’s The Difference

Author :

mahi medicos

Post Uploaded Date : March 24, 2025 Last Updated Date : December 13, 2025
sildenafil-vs-tadalafil
Sildenafil and Tadalafil are both well-known ED medications. Tadalafil has a longer-lasting effect that makes it efficient in durability, whereas Sildenafil works faster for spontaneous sexual intercourse.

Men are facing challenges due to the symptoms of Erectile dysfunction. Choosing the treatment options, such as Tadalafil Vs. Sildenafil can be a crucial step in finding a solution that brings both comfort and confidence. Sildenafil is commonly referred to by the brand name Viagra, and it works very quickly, which makes it well-suited for spontaneous sexual intercourse.
In contrast, Tadalafil stays in the body for a longer period and may be effective for a longer duration. In this guide, we will cover the key differences between Sildenafil and Tadalafil so that you can choose the best option for you.

Fact Box

 

Feature Sildenafil Tadalafil
Onset of action 30-60 minutes 30 minutes to 60 minutes
Duration of action 4-6 hours 36 hours
Flexibility for use Immediate use Flexible for planned or spontaneous encounters
Erection hardness Slightly firmer peak erection in some cases Longer-lasting erection
Suitability Ideal for shorter-term treatment Better for longer-lasting effectiveness

 

Sildenafil Vs. Tadalafil: What’s The Difference?

Both Sildenafil and Tadalafil have emerged as one of the most well-known and effective solutions for ED. Both medications work by blocking certain chemicals in the body that help increase the blood flow to the penis. This, in turn, makes it easier for a person to achieve and maintain a firm penile erection.

However, both medications share notable differences, such as:

  • The brand names of Sildenafil and Tadalafil are Viagra and Cialis, respectively.
  • The effects of Sildenafil last for about 4-6 hours. Whereas the effects of Tadalafil are longer-lasting and last up to 36 hours.
  • Both medications contain similar side effects, but Sildenafil is more likely to cause blurred vision.

Sildenafil Vs. Tadalafil: How Do They Work?

Both Sildenafil and Tadalafil work by increasing the blood flow to the penis. It allows you to get and maintain an erection when sexually aroused.

The medications help in relaxing the muscles and widening the blood vessels, which helps to allow more blood flow to the penis. This generally occurs by stopping an enzyme called PDE5, which affects the blood flow to the penis. However, it is to be noted that the medications do not cause erections on their own; you need to be sexually aroused for them to have an effect.

Proper Dosage And Administration: Sildenafil Vs. Tadalafil

It is always recommended to start with a lower dosage of Sildenafil, especially for beginners. The medication should be taken 30 minutes before any sexual activity. However, depending on your individual needs and preferences, you can adjust your Sildenafil dosage after consulting with a doctor.

It is also important to note that you should not exceed the recommended daily dosage, as this may lead to serious side effects. The effects of Sildenafil last for about 4 to 6 hours. In contrast, Tadalafil stays in the body for up to 36 hours. You can achieve a firm erection during that period if you are sexually aroused. This is more effective for people who want to get involved in sexual intercourse several times a day. The medications can be taken with or without food, as prescribed by the doctor. Most men begin to experience the effects of the tablet within 30 minutes after administration.

Which Leads to Harder Erections: Sildenafil Or Tadalafil?

Sildenafil Vs Tadalafil: Which Leads To Harder Erections?

A 2005 study comparing clinical trials with Sildenafil and Tadalafil for ED suggests a slight advantage in helping a higher number of men achieve their firmest erections. On the other hand, the use of Tadalafil helps in generating longer-lasting erections, which the study volunteers prefer over a shorter period of maximum hardness.

In the end of the day, the best Erectile dysfunction medicine comes down to personal preferences. If you are looking for something to enjoy a slightly firmer erection for a shorter period of time, then Sildenafil is the best option for you. Whereas, if you are looking for a medicine that offers a larger window to engage in sexual activity, then Tadalafil is the right treatment option for you. However, it is important to note that the results may vary from person to person.

What Are The Side Effects Of Sildenafil And Tadalafil?

Some of the side effects of Sildenafil and Tadalafil are-

  • Headache.
  • Flushing.
  • Dizziness.
  • Back pain.
  • Nasal congestion or a runny nose.
  • Indigestion.

Generally, adverse effects tend to resolve on their own. In rare circumstances, Sildenafil is more likely to cause blurred vision, increased light sensitivity, or a blue tinge to vision.

On the other hand, Cialis does not appear to significantly impact vision for most patients. This gives Tadalafil an upper hand, making many people choose this ED medicine over Sildenafil.

Another rare occasion is a prolonged painful erection or priapism. In cases of severe illness, you should consult a doctor or visit a nearby hospital immediately. It is important to note that both medications are well-tolerated in most men, especially while using the lowest effective dose.

Tadalafil Vs. Sildenafil: Can They Reverse ED?

It is always a common question among men whether these medications can permanently reverse the ED symptoms.

The answer is no,  as the medications don’t completely cure ED but help in treating its symptoms. However, enhancing your sexual function by using ED pills helps to restore your confidence so that you can enjoy improved intimacy in your relationship.

A 2008 study on the use of Tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction suggests that the use of Tadalafil may also help in protecting erectile tissue health, which could slow the decline in sexual function over time.

Sildenafil Vs. Tadalafil: Drug Interactions

Taking other medicines and supplements with Sildenafil and Tadalafil can result in drug interactions. Such interaction can lower the effectiveness of the medicine and increase the risk of side effects. Some of the medicines that can interact with both Sildenafil and Tadalafil are listed down below-

  • Nitrates
  • Other ED medications.
  • HIV treatment options.
  • High blood pressure medicines.
  • Antifungal medicines.
  • Antibiotics.
  • Over-the-counter medications.

It is important to note that this is not the list of all the possible drug interactions of Sildenafil and Tadalafil. So, if you are taking any medicine, it is important to consult a doctor before taking these medicines for managing ED symptoms.

How To Choose The Right ED Medication Option For You?

Choosing between Sildenafil and Tadalafil for ED treatment is a deeply personal decision and one that balances your individual needs and preferences. Lifestyle factors and consulting a healthcare provider can help you find the best ED medications.

If spontaneity around sexual activity is a priority, Sildenafil works within 30 minutes and supports an erection for up to 4 to 6 hours. But if your preference is a longer duration of action then it is best to choose Tadalafil that works for up to 36 hours.

Both Tadalafil and Sildenafil are available in affordable generics. Sildenafil is available under the generic names Cenforce, Malegra, and Aurogra. They are composed with Sildenafil as the active compound and showcase a similar effectiveness and safety profile. On the other hand, Tadalafil is available under the generic names Vidalista and Tadalista. Where Vidalista Professional is a sublingual tablet that works within 15 to 20 minutes of intake. These are also prescription medicines and are available only with a valid medical prescription.

Conclusion

To conclude, we lay out some of our key findings-

  • Sildenafil acts faster, starting to work within 30-60 minutes after administration. The effects of the medication last for about 4-6 hours.
  • Tadalafil takes 30 minutes to two hours to start working, but the medication lasts for about 36 hours after a single dose.
  • Both medications improve erection firmness and have comparatively mild side effect profiles.

 

FAQs

Does Tadalafil keep you hard after ejaculation?

Individual experiences might vary, but Tadalafil has not been proven to prolong erections after ejaculation directly.

What is the best pill to stay hard longer?

Among the ED medications, Tadalafil is considered the longest-lasting option. The effects of the drug last for up to 36 hours. It is also known as “the weekend pill”. However, it is to be noted that the ED medication doesn't work without sexual stimulation.

How long does Viagra last?

Viagra lasts for about 4-6 hours.

What is the active ingredient of Cialis?

Tadalafil is the active ingredient of Cialis.

Which One Acts Faster, Sildenafil Or Tadalafil?

Sildenafil works faster than Tadalafil, with Effects Visible within 30-60 minutes after administration. It is a well-known medication for spontaneous sexual intercourse.

Sildenafil Vs. Tadalafil: Which One Lasts Longer?

Tadalafil has longer-lasting effects, up to 36 hours, which are longer than those of Sildenafil.

References

  1. Tips to Get the Most Out of Tadalafil (Cialis), Healthline
  2. Sildenafil: mechanism of action, clinical applications and safety, chemicalbook
  3. Comparison of Sildenafil vs Tadalafil, The Independent Pharmacy
  4. Tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, NCBI
  5. Tadalafil vs Sildenafil: Which is better? Asda
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