Cialis Daily vs Cialis: What's the difference?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is an incredibly common condition, it is thought to affect half of all men between the ages of 40 and 70. In some cases, it can be mild or only occur infrequently; in other cases, it can be an indication of an underlying health condition like high blood pressure, diabetes or an overactive thyroid.

For many men, ED becomes more of a problem as they age. The good news is that tablets known as PDE-5 inhibitors can be prescribed; these tablets contain medicine that temporarily increases blood flow to the penis, allowing you to attain and maintain an erection sufficient for sex.

There are several PDE-5 inhibitors available but one of the most popular is Cialis, which comes in two varieties: Cialis prescribed for one-off use and Cialis Daily taken every day.

If you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction and considering treatment, read on to learn more about the differences between Cialis, Cialis Daily and the other ED tablets on the market.

What are the side effects?

Cialis Daily

Cialis Daily comes in tablet sizes of 2.5mg and 5mg and can cause:

• nausea
• headache
• indigestion
• back pain
• muscle aches
• facial flushing
• stuffy or runny nose

These side effects usually resolve within a few days. An uncommon side effect includes an erection that does not go away and can cause damage to the penis. Additionally, a sudden decrease or loss of vision or hearing may occur although these side effects are very uncommon. A full list of side effects can be found in the information leaflet.

Cialis

Cialis is available in tablet sizes of 10mg and 20mg and is associated with the same side effects as Cialis Daily. However, because it is prescribed in higher dosages than Cialis Daily, these side effects can be stronger.

What does it do?

Cialis Daily

Cialis Daily enables an erection in men who suffer from ED, and is designed to allow for spontaneous sex. When you take it every day, you should be able to get erections and have sex whenever you want to.

Cialis

Cialis enables an erection in men with ED but it is designed for one-off use. To get an erection with regular Cialis you will have to take one tablet 30-60 minutes before you plan to have sex.

Who’s it for?

Cialis Daily

Cialis Daily is suited to men who have sex three or more times a week. It can be particularly helpful for men in long-term relationships who would like to have spontaneous sex with their partner.

Cialis

Cialis is suited to men who have sex on a less regular basis, or whose ED comes and goes.

When do I take it?

Cialis Daily

Cialis Daily must be taken once every 24 hours, with or without food. It’s best to get into a routine and take it at the same time each day, as you should never take more than one tablet in a 24-hour period.

Cialis

Cialis should be taken 30-60 minutes before you plan to have sex.

How quickly does it work, and how long does it last?

Cialis Daily

When taken correctly (see above), Cialis Daily should begin to work within 3-5 days. After this point, you should be able to achieve erections whenever you want them – bearing in mind that you will only get an erection if you are sexually aroused. Cialis Daily should continue to be effective for as long as you take it.

Cialis

When taken correctly, Cialis should begin to work within 30-60 minutes. The effects of one Cialis tablet can last up to 36 hours; however during this period you will only achieve an erection if you become sexually aroused.

What’s the pack size?

Per tablet, Cialis Daily is cheaper than Cialis, however you may end up using more tablets. Per tablet, Cialis is more expensive than Cialis Daily, however you may end up using fewer tablets.

Alternative ED tablets

If you don’t think Cialis Daily or regular Cialis are right for you, there are some alternative ED tablets to consider. Just remember that Cialis Daily is currently the only 'every day' option for men with ED.

• Viagra is the most famous ED tablet and works in the same way as Cialis. It lasts 4-6 hours and should be taken 30-60 minutes before sex.
• Sildenafil contains the same active ingredient as Viagra and works in exactly the same way. Sildenafil is the most affordable ED tablet.
• Spedra is the fastest-acting ED tablet, as it only has to be taken 15-30 minutes before sex.
• Levitra is recommended for diabetics, and works in a very similar way to Viagra and Sildenafil.

For more information on ED treatments and comparisons visit the LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor ED page.

References
www.nhs.uk/medicines/tadalafil/
www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/7432/pil#gref