Sildenafil and Tadalafil: What to Discuss with Your Doctor
A plain-language overview of two medicines used for erectile dysfunction and why individual medical advice matters.
Sildenafil and tadalafil are prescription medicines used to help some people with erectile dysfunction. They belong to a group called PDE5 inhibitors and work by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.
The medicines differ in how long their effects may last and in how they are taken. The right choice depends on your health, other medicines, preferences, and a clinician's advice; neither medicine is suitable for everyone.
These medicines can cause side effects and may interact with other drugs. They must not be taken with nitrate medicines for chest pain because the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
A healthcare professional can review your health and medicines before advising whether either medicine may be appropriate. Do not take someone else's prescription or change your dose without medical advice.
Interactions and urgent warning signs
Tell the prescriber about heart medicines, HIV treatment and recreational drugs, including nitrate-containing “poppers”. Do not combine erection medicines unless specifically instructed. Seek urgent in-person care for chest pain, sudden loss of vision or hearing, or an erection lasting more than four hours; do not wait that long if it is painful. Tell emergency staff what you took and when. Do not self-treat chest pain with nitrates after taking an erection medicine.
Key Takeaways
- Sildenafil and tadalafil are options for some people with erectile dysfunction.
- Their duration and use differ.
- Suitability depends on health and other medicines.
- Do not combine PDE5 inhibitors with nitrate medicines.
Sources & further reading
General health information; speak with a qualified healthcare professional for advice about your own care.