When treating erectile dysfunction (ED) with prescription medication, the choice comes down to two main brands: Viagra (sildenafil) or Cialis (tadalafil). Erectile dysfunction can be frustrating and embarrassing, but is really very common. There are a few things it’s important to understand about this condition before choosing a treatment plan.
How the 2 ED medications work
Both sildenafil and tadalafil affect the body in similar ways. Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to achieve or sustain an erection, and medication helps by increasing the blood flow to the penis. This allows for an erection to occur where it formerly physically could not have been achieved, because the penis would not have received enough blood to become fully erect.
Natural results
Medications are designed to work with the body’s natural sexual cues, so the drugs do not cause an erection themselves. Rather, they allow for an erection to take place when there is a physical or psychological issue that might otherwise be preventing typical sexual function. Erections only take place in response to physical stimulation.
Benefits of treatment
Early intervention in treating ED can drastically lower the negative impact the condition usually has on an individual and his partner. As the problem continues, stress related to sexual performance increases, which in itself can contribute to further sexual dysfunction.Very quickly, this becomes a vicious cycle.
Alternative treatments
Of course, there are other ways to treat ED besides medication, but none of the other methods have shown nearly the same level of success. They may also require more invasive procedures, such as surgery. Or, they may need the use of complicated and embarrassing mechanical suction. Most men who struggle with ED find the best results through the discreet use of oral medication.
Overview of sildenafil
- Is taken only as needed
- Is effective about 30 minutes after initial dose
- Lasts an average of four hours
- Does not remain in system
Overview of tadalafil
- Must be taken daily
- Can take a few days to a few weeks to reach optimum effectiveness
How do I decide?
When choosing between tadalafil and sildenafil, it really comes down to lifestyle preference. Cialis must be taken every day, even when not planning for romance, because it needs time to build up to effective levels in the body before results are seen. Viagra only has to be taken when planning on becoming intimate, and effects dissipate naturally within a few hours.