Dealing with erectile dysfunction can be a stressful time for you and your partner, but strides have been made to recognize the underlying causes of ED. High blood pressure and lack of blood flow can lead to failure for liftoff, but there are prescription medications to address these issues. And, of course, you have those special pills that will make sure you’re revved up for sexual activity.
Viagra and Cialis are among the more commonly prescribed erectile dysfunction drugs on the market, designed to help you get an erection and maintain it. But what’s the difference between the two?
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Dosage and Use
One of the biggest differences between Cialis vs Viagra is in the dosage of these prescriptions. Cialis is manufactured as an oral tablet in 2.5, 5, 10, and 20-milligram doses. Doctors will prescribe your dose based on the issues with your erectile function and your medical history. Viagra is produced in oral tablets with a strength of 20 mg, but prescriptions for the little blue pill are a variety of doses, some ranging as high as 100 milligrams depending on the severity of the condition.
Viagra and Cialis are in the same class of drugs as pde5 inhibitors, improving blood circulation through an erect penis. During an erection, a chemical called cGMP causes the tissues and muscles in the penis to relax, allowing for better blood flow. Without the action of PDE-5, the cGMP doesn’t get broken down and the tissues in the penis stay relaxed, allowing men to maintain erections. Some people take Cialis as needed, but some healthcare providers may recommend it at a dose of about 2.5 mg daily. Viagra is taken on an as-needed basis, with a starting dosage of around 50 milligrams based on your individual needs.
Effectiveness
Just like most prescription medications for ailments, the effectiveness truly depends on the patient. Be sure to consult with your primary care provider and/or specialist for deeper medical advice regarding erectile dysfunction and the drugs that can curb those problems. Cialis is considered by some patients to be best for maintaining sexual desire longer. It can be taken 30 minutes before getting between the sheets, and last up to 36 hours when taken as needed.
On the other hand, Viagra can be taken at the same time prior to sexual activity. However, it may only last up to four hours. Like most erectile dysfunction drugs, the rate of effectiveness is usually felt at higher dosages around 50 or 100 milligrams to successfully keep erections going through a passionate evening.
Risks and Side Effects
Viagra and Cialis have gone through the rigorous FDA standards to be approved for consumer use. However, it’s important to take into account any pre-existing medical conditions before using Cialis. Any cardiac issues, such as angina or lower blood pressure, should be taken into account before taking this medicine. Prior diagnoses of stomach ulcer and kidney disease should also be taken into account before picking up this prescription from your pharmacy.
Drug interactions are also important to keep in mind for the safe use of Viagra. If you’re taking nitrates, often prescribed for chest pain, you could experience an unsafe drop in blood pressure when taking Pfizer’s little blue pill. While there are risks, these medications also have similar side effects. Both Cialis and Viagra have been linked to symptoms of dizziness, indigestion, and headaches.
However, some patients on Cialis have dealt with more serious potential side effects like sudden vision loss, brought on by the length of the medication’s stay in the bloodstream. These cases were rare. Be sure to consult your doctor about the possible side effects and benefits of these erectile dysfunction meds.