Viagra vs. Cialis, Which One Is Better?

Viagra and Cialis have been the top two prescription treatments for erectile dysfunctions (ED) around the world. Both of these powerful active ingredients are what are better known as PDE5 or phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors. These chemicals tackle the PDE5 enzyme that is responsible for controlling the erectile dysfunction.

Viagra first came onto the scene in the late 1980s and remains the number one prescription drug used by men. The first effects usually come about two hours after taking Viagra; although there have been cases where people have taken Viagra several hours before having sex.

What Is Viagra?

Viagra is one of the most well known drugs on the market because of its use in treating patients with mild to moderate erectile problems, including impotence, loss of libido, lack of firmness, and difficulty maintaining an erection long enough to engage in sexual intercourse. Viagra is a chemically synthesized drug comprised of more than sixty different substances including estrogen, anabolic steroids, and sildenafil.

Sildenafil can produce certain common side effects that include diarrhea, dizziness, increased blood pressure, headache, nausea, lightheadedness, stiff neck, diarrhea, and upset stomach. Other common side effects are constipation, jaundice, fatigue, joint aches, decreased sex drive, flushing, and increased heart rate. Some people may experience mild stomach cramps also.

How Are They Different?

Viagra and Cialis differ primarily in how they work in the body. Viagra works by increasing the blood flow to the genital areas, thus allowing the penis to contract more effectively. This result in a stronger erection. Cialis works by similar principles but in this case the blood vessels in the penis are dilated allowing more blood to flow in.

The FDA has approved Viagra and Cialis for use in men aged fifty to sixty five, however, pregnant and breastfeeding women can not use these medications as they may cause premature birth or low birth weight. In addition, for Women younger than 25, it would be better to not take Cialis.

Viagra vs. Cialis

Now, let’s compare Viagra and Cialis side effects. Viagra is, by far, the more commonly prescribed medication because it is approved by the FDA and comes in the form of a hard tablet. Cialis can be taken as a liquid, spray, or pill. The active ingredients in both medications are almost the same. But the duration of action, and the amount of time it takes to become effective, can be vastly different between the two medications. A person who takes Viagra for a week may experience some milder side effects.

Cialis is known to have much longer lasting effects than Viagra. Cialis is also much cheaper, which helps it achieve its widespread popularity. It is also able to remain active in the body much longer than Viagra, thus continuing to provide relief to individuals for a much longer period of time. 

One of the biggest differences between Viagra and Cialis is the amount of time it takes for them to become effective. Viagra takes just sixty minutes to begin providing results and Cialis only needs six hours to begin working. Using this knowledge, you can see why Viagra is so much more popular compared to Cialis.