Sildenafil and tadalafil are the two best-known treatments for erectile dysfunction. Both help most men who try them, and both are now available as cheaper generics. The real question is often not which one is "better", but which one fits your routine.
Sildenafil is typically taken about an hour before sex and lasts around four to five hours. A large meal can delay the effect. Generic tadalafil, on the other hand, can work for up to 36 hours, and food has little effect. Many men also take a low daily dose of tadalafil so they do not have to plan ahead.
If you want a simple comparison, see this plain-English guide explains the differences step by step.
Safety first: never take either medicine with nitrate tablets or sprays for chest pain or with "poppers". Tell your doctor about any blood pressure tablets. The usual side effects are headache, flushing, a blocked nose and indigestion. Get urgent help for an erection lasting more than four hours or sudden changes in vision.
More is not always better. The licensed doses are 25, 50 or 100 mg for sildenafil and 2.5 to 20 mg for tadalafil. Higher-strength tablets do not bring better results, but they do raise the risk of side effects. Stick to the dose on your prescription.
When you buy medicine online, check here make sure the strength matches your prescription and read the patient leaflet. A valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine. There is more detail in this tadalafil and sildenafil guide.
This is general information, not medical advice. Always check with your doctor before starting a new medicine.