Q: Can you discuss the pros and cons of erectile dysfunction drugs like Tadalafil/Cialis and how they compare to the traditionally available Viagra? I have read that there are differences between them but not sure what’s advertising and what’s real?
About 30 million American men and 11.7 men in the UK occasionally have a problem getting or maintaining an erection and turn to ED (erectile dysfunction) drugs, so it’s important to get the right one. Viagra works on about two-thirds of men but 48 per cent of men report suffering at least one side effect.
Before taking any of these drugs, you must check with your GP whether they react negatively with other medication you’re taking and get a general health check. Erection problems mean blood flow problems and if you’re having blood flow problems to your penis, it’s happening elsewhere in your body as well. Get checked out!
Here’s a basic rundown of the most popular ED medications and how they compare to each other. If you’re a big drinker, beware: drinking lots of alcohol will interfere with the effectiveness of nearly all the brands. Eating a big meal can also reduce its effectiveness.
Viagra works between 30 minutes and an hour after taking a tablet and works best when taken on an empty stomach. The effects last for around four hours. Side effects of Viagra and Cialis include flushing (‘getting a big red head’ is how one man described it!), headaches, muscle pain, back pain and an upset stomach. Viagra can also cause vision change, a rash and dizziness.
Tadalafil/Cialis lasts much longer than Viagra (up to 36 hours) so is more conducive to spontaneous sex – and you only need to take it 30 minutes before sex. It comes in a lower dose and you can take it every day so it’s always in your system. The downside is the possible side effects last longer, too. On top of the ones I’ve mentioned, these can also include limb pain and indigestion problems. Cialis isn’t affected by food but alcohol does reduce the effects.
Levitra needs to be taken at least an hour before sex and lasts around four to six hours but it’s less affected by food or alcohol – helpful if you plan on eating or drinking before sex.
Stendra or Spedra are the newest boys on the block and the speediest – they can work in 15 minutes. They also last for six hours – the longest of all the drugs. It seems to have milder side effects than Viagra but can cause vision changes, nausea and muscle aches. And – weirdly – a sore throat.
Anecdotally, I’d say it’s very much an individual thing as to what suits you. What suits one man, doesn’t suit another, so choose one which seems to tick the right boxes, then experiment. Give your body time to get accustomed to them, as well. Try on at least four occasions before moving onto the next.
