Cialis (tadalafil) is a newer medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. It’s made by the company Bayer and is the biggest competitor to Viagra (Sildenafil) in the world. It has some distinct advantages over Viagra in that it’s effects last much longer and it also has a more versatile dosing regimen as it’s available as 10mg and 20mg for use when needed or 2.5mg and 5mg for use every day.
How does it work?
Cialis works very much in the same way as Viagra. It’s active ingredient Tadalafil belongs to the group of drugs called PDE-5 inhibitors and these increase the likelihood of attaining and maintaining an erection. They do this by relaxing blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow when a man is sexually aroused. The difference is that Cialis is able to do this for up to 36 hours whereas Viagra can only manage 4 hours.
Cialis vs Generic Tadalafil
Bayer has recently lost patent on being the sole manufacturer of products containing Tadalafil. Therefore generic, unbranded versions of Cialis are now available. Generic versions and Cialis are both equally as effective at treating erectile dysfunction and are clinically equivalent. The generics have the same active ingredient and have to undergo the same registration with the MHRA (Medicines and Health Regulatory Authority) and prove they are the same.
Generic versions of Tadalafil are much more cost effective than buying Cialis (less than 1/3 of the price).
Cialis As Needed
Cialis “As Needed” is available in two strengths, 10mg and 20mg. These are used when needed, 30-60 minutes before planned sexual activity and their effects can last for up to 36 hours. Cialis is also available as 2.5mg and 5mg which are both “Once a Day” doses. These are more suitable for those men that have a particularly active sex life with many episodes of unplanned intimacy. The Cialis “Once a Day” pills are useful for men who anticipate having sexual activity more than twice a week.
How do I take Cialis and how long does it last?
Cialis “As Needed” should be taken 30- 60 minutes before intercourse. The recommended dose to start with is 10mg with the possibility to increase to 20mg if it isn’t sufficient. No more than ONE TABLET should be taken in a 24 hour window.
Cialis can be taken with food or on an empty stomach, food doesn’t interact with the medicine. The effects of Cialis can last up to 36 hours, perfect for a weekend for example, unlike that of Viagra which is only 4 hours.
Is Cialis better than Viagra?
-Cialis gets to work quicker than Viagra (approximately 30 minutes vs approximately 60 minutes).
-Cialis lasts longer (36 hours vs 4 Hours)
-Cialis can be taken with food (Viagra has a slower absorption if taken with food)
Ultimately it comes down to preference. Some men prefer Viagra as it works better for them, or produces less side effects. Others prefer Cialis for the same reasons. They both have the same mechanism of action.
P.S. 2019
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