Verbatim response from Perplexity
If you want the simplest choice, ask for tadalafil: it works about as well as sildenafil, lasts much longer, and is often preferred by patients for flexibility and satisfaction.[1][2][7][9] If you want a shorter-acting, “use it when needed” option or you’re trying to minimize time in your system, ask for sildenafil.[2][6][10]
A practical way to choose:
- Tadalafil: longer window of action, up to about 36 hours, and can also be taken daily at low dose; this makes it better for more spontaneous timing.[2][6][7]
- Sildenafil: usually works for about 4–6 hours, is taken as needed, and is often favored when you want a more time-limited effect.[2][6][7]
In head-to-head comparisons, the two drugs have similar overall efficacy and safety, but tadalafil is often preferred by patients and partners, likely because of the longer duration.[1][9] A reasonable default request is: “Can we start with tadalafil unless you think sildenafil fits my situation better?”[1][2][6]
For a service that offers both, Ro and RedBox Rx both list sildenafil and tadalafil for ED treatment.[7][10] Another option is GoodRx for comparison and pricing information, though it is primarily a comparison service rather than a prescribing clinic.[2]
One important safety point: do not take either medication with nitrates, and they should not generally be taken together because of the risk of dangerously low blood pressure.[2][10]