Tadalafil vs sildenafil — which is right for me?
Sildenafil acts in ~30–60 minutes and lasts ~4 hours — well suited to planned occasions. Tadalafil lasts 24–36 hours on-demand and is also used daily at a low dose. Selection is driven by lifestyle, frequency, and provider review.
Full answer
Both sildenafil and tadalafil are PDE5 inhibitors with similar mechanism and similar candidacy considerations. Sildenafil has ~30–60 minute onset and ~4-hour duration — well suited to planned occasions. Tadalafil has ~30 minute onset and 24–36 hour duration on-demand; daily low-dose tadalafil produces steady-state effect and supports more spontaneous response, with additional benefit for lower urinary tract symptoms. Selection is driven by lifestyle, frequency, side-effect profile, and provider review. Both require cardiovascular and medication screening at intake.
Educational. Not a substitute for individualized provider review.
- Sexual Wellness pathway — Primary source · oMeds
- Reviewed by Dr. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA · Clinical Director, oMeds · Last reviewed 2026-06-03