Physician-reviewed
Sildenafil vs tadalafil
Medically reviewed byClay Buchanan, MD·Last reviewed September 2026
Sildenafil is shorter-acting and taken as needed about an hour before activity; tadalafil lasts far longer and comes in a daily low-dose option. Both are FDA-approved generics and neither should be combined with nitrates.
How they differ
Sildenafil is short-acting; tadalafil’s effect can last up to about 36 hours, which some people prefer for spontaneity.
Safety first
Both require screening for heart and blood-pressure considerations. Never combine with nitrates.
| Sildenafil | Tadalafil | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | A few hours | Up to ~36 hours |
| Daily option | No | Yes |
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Which works faster?
Both act within roughly an hour; tadalafil simply lasts longer.
References
- FDA prescribing information for sildenafil and tadalafil.
This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not create a clinician–patient relationship.