Tadalafil and sildenafil are the two most common treatments for erectile dysfunction. Both have a long track record, and both are sold as lower-cost generics. The question that matters is usually not which one is "better", but which one suits the way you live.
Generic sildenafil is usually taken about an hour before sex and lasts around four to five hours. A heavy meal can slow it down. Tadalafil, on the other hand, can work for up to 36 hours, and food has little effect. Plenty of men also take a low daily dose of tadalafil so they never need to time a tablet.
To compare the two in more detail, this guide walks through timing, food and side effects.
Before you start: never take either medicine with nitrate sildenafil vs tadalafil tablets or sprays for chest pain or with "poppers". Tell your doctor about any other medicines you take. Common side effects are headache, flushing, a blocked nose and indigestion. Get urgent help for an erection lasting more than four hours or any sudden loss of sight or hearing.
Strength matters too. The licensed doses are 25, 50 or 100 mg for sildenafil and 2.5 to 20 mg for tadalafil. Higher-strength tablets do not reliably work better, but they do raise the risk of side effects. Only take the dose your prescriber has set.
When you buy generic ED tablets online, check the strength on the pack and keep the leaflet. A valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine. There is more detail on this page.
This article is for general information only. Always check with your doctor before starting a new medicine.