Tadalafil and sildenafil are the two best-known treatments for erectile dysfunction. Both work well for most men, and both are sold as lower-cost generics. The main question is often not which one is "better", but which one fits your routine.
Sildenafil is normally taken about an hour before sex and lasts around four to five hours. A high-fat meal can slow it down. Tadalafil, on the other hand, can last for up to 36 hours, and food has little effect. Some men also take a low daily dose of tadalafil so they never need to time a tablet.
If you want a simple comparison, this guide covers doses, timing and safety.
Before you start: never take either medicine with nitrate tablets or sprays for chest pain or with "poppers". Tell your doctor about any other medicines you take. The usual side effects are headache, flushing, a blocked nose and indigestion. Seek medical help straight away for an erection lasting more than four hours or sudden changes in vision.
Strength matters too. The licensed doses are 25, 50 or 100 mg for sildenafil and 2.5 to 20 mg for tadalafil. Bigger doses do not reliably work better, but they do raise the risk of side effects. Only take sildenafil vs tadalafil the dose your prescriber has set.
If you choose to buy generic sildenafil or tadalafil online, make sure the strength matches your prescription and read the patient leaflet. A valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine. More practical tips are here.
This article is for general information only. Always check with your doctor before starting a new medicine.