Sildenafil v Tadalafil UK - Compare Prices & Differences

Clinically Proven UK Registered Pharmacy

Sildenafil v Tadalafil - Compare Prices & Cheapest UK

Compare sildenafil v tadalafil at the cheapest UK price from £0.45 with 20% off using code Ednew.

UK-registered clinical team
Confidential and secure
No GP visit needed
Fast and discreet delivery
Start Your Free Consultation

Takes less than 2 minutes to complete 100% online

Ednew 20% off for new customers
Genuine Products
UK-licensed only
Fast Delivery
Next-day available
Expert Advice
UK pharmacists
Man using Cured Pharmacy online consultation for erectile dysfunction treatment
From £0.45 Starting dose — clinically approved
LIVE PRICING

Our Pricing

Pricing Disclaimer: Prices on some pages may not be up to date — the live pricing table below and pricing shown during consultation are official current prices and take precedence over any other figures on the site.

Sildenafil - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Sildenafil

From £0.45

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Tadalafil - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Tadalafil

From £9.99

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Sildenafil Eropid - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Sildenafil Eropid

From £8.99

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Tadalafil (Teva) - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Tadalafil (Teva)

From £9.99

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Avarante Tablets Tadalafil Tablets 10mg - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Avarante Tablets Tadalafil Tablets 10mg

From £11.49

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment
Viagra Connect 50mg - UK-licensed prescription Treatment
Treatment

Viagra Connect 50mg

From £11.49

Future orders save 5%
Start Assessment

Sildenafil v Tadalafil: Clinical Comparison and UK Treatment Guide

When comparing sildenafil v tadalafil, the two most prescribed erectile dysfunction treatments in the UK, understanding their distinct pharmacological profiles is essential for informed decision-making. Both medications belong to the PDE5 inhibitor class and share similar efficacy rates, yet they differ significantly in onset time, duration of action, and dosing flexibility. This guide, written by our UK-registered clinical team, examines the evidence-based differences to help you and your prescriber choose the most suitable option.

How Sildenafil v Tadalafil Work: Mechanism of Action

Both sildenafil v tadalafil function by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), an enzyme that regulates blood flow in the penile tissue. By blocking PDE5, these medications enhance the effects of nitric oxide released during sexual stimulation, promoting smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow to the corpus cavernosum [1]. This physiological response facilitates the achievement and maintenance of an erection sufficient for sexual activity.

While the mechanism is identical, the molecular structure of each compound influences its pharmacokinetic profile. Sildenafil has a half-life of approximately 3-5 hours, whereas tadalafil's half-life extends to 17.5 hours, accounting for the significant difference in duration of action [2]. This structural variance is the primary reason clinicians and patients weigh sildenafil v tadalafil differently depending on lifestyle and frequency of sexual activity.

Onset and Duration: Key Differences in Sildenafil v Tadalafil

One of the most clinically relevant distinctions when evaluating sildenafil v tadalafil is the speed of onset and duration of therapeutic effect. Sildenafil typically begins working within 30-60 minutes of administration and remains effective for approximately 4-6 hours [1]. This makes it ideal for planned sexual activity where timing is predictable.

Tadalafil, by contrast, can take effect within 30 minutes but maintains efficacy for up to 36 hours, earning it the colloquial term 'the weekend pill' [2]. This extended window allows for greater spontaneity and reduces the need to time medication precisely around sexual activity. For men who engage in sexual activity more than twice weekly, daily low-dose tadalafil (2.5mg or 5mg) offers continuous readiness without the need for on-demand dosing.

Which Duration Suits Your Lifestyle?

Choosing between sildenafil v tadalafil often comes down to personal preference and sexual activity patterns. Sildenafil suits those who prefer a shorter, more predictable window of action, while tadalafil appeals to men seeking flexibility and spontaneity over an extended period. Both options require sexual stimulation to work — neither medication induces an erection independently [3].

Efficacy and Clinical Trial Data: Sildenafil v Tadalafil

Clinical trials demonstrate comparable efficacy between sildenafil v tadalafil, with both achieving successful intercourse in approximately 70-85% of men with erectile dysfunction across various aetiologies [3]. In pivotal studies, sildenafil showed statistically significant improvement in erectile function scores compared to placebo, with efficacy maintained across doses of 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg.

Tadalafil demonstrated similar success rates in randomised controlled trials, with 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg doses all significantly outperforming placebo [4]. A head-to-head comparison published in the European Urology journal found no significant difference in overall efficacy between sildenafil 50mg and tadalafil 10mg, though patient preference varied based on duration of action and side effect profile [5].

Both medications are effective in men with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and post-prostatectomy erectile dysfunction, though response rates may be lower in these populations. When comparing sildenafil v tadalafil, individual response can vary, and some men may find one agent more effective than the other due to unique pharmacogenetic factors.

Feature Sildenafil Tadalafil
Onset of Action 30-60 minutes 30 minutes
Duration 4-6 hours Up to 36 hours
Dosing Options On-demand only (25mg, 50mg, 100mg) On-demand (10mg, 20mg) or daily (2.5mg, 5mg)
Food Interaction High-fat meals delay onset Minimal food interaction
Common Side Effects Headache, flushing, visual disturbances Headache, flushing, back pain, myalgia
Starting Price (Cured Pharmacy) From £0.45 From £9.99
Ideal For Planned activity, shorter window Spontaneity, extended window, frequent use

Side Effects and Safety Profile: Sildenafil v Tadalafil

The side effect profiles of sildenafil v tadalafil are similar, reflecting their shared mechanism as PDE5 inhibitors. Common adverse effects include headache, facial flushing, nasal congestion, dyspepsia, and visual disturbances (more common with sildenafil due to mild PDE6 inhibition) [1][2]. These effects are typically mild to moderate and transient.

Tadalafil is associated with a slightly higher incidence of back pain and myalgia, occurring in approximately 5-10% of users, likely due to PDE11 inhibition in skeletal muscle [4]. Sildenafil may cause transient blue-tinted vision or increased light sensitivity in a small percentage of men. Both medications are contraindicated in patients taking nitrates or riociguat due to the risk of severe hypotension [6].

Who Should Avoid Sildenafil v Tadalafil?

Men with severe cardiovascular disease, recent stroke or myocardial infarction, uncontrolled hypertension, or severe hepatic impairment should not use either medication without specialist consultation. A thorough medical assessment by a UK-registered prescriber is mandatory before starting treatment. At Cured Pharmacy, our clinical team reviews your medical history during a free online consultation to ensure suitability and safety.

Dosing Flexibility: Sildenafil v Tadalafil Options

When comparing sildenafil v tadalafil, dosing regimens offer distinct flexibility. Sildenafil is typically prescribed on-demand at doses of 25mg, 50mg, or 100mg, taken approximately one hour before sexual activity. The starting dose for most men is 50mg, with adjustments based on efficacy and tolerability [1].

Tadalafil offers both on-demand dosing (10mg or 20mg taken prior to activity) and daily low-dose therapy (2.5mg or 5mg taken once daily regardless of sexual activity timing) [2]. Daily tadalafil is particularly advantageous for men who engage in frequent sexual activity or prefer not to plan around medication timing. This dosing versatility is a key consideration in the sildenafil v tadalafil decision.

Adjusting Your Dose Safely

Dose adjustments should always be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Never exceed the maximum recommended dose (100mg for sildenafil, 20mg on-demand or 5mg daily for tadalafil) as this increases the risk of adverse effects without improving efficacy. Our pharmacist-led team at Cured Pharmacy can support ongoing dose optimisation through follow-up consultations.

Cost and Accessibility: Sildenafil v Tadalafil in the UK

Price is often a deciding factor when choosing between sildenafil v tadalafil. Generic sildenafil is widely available in the UK at highly competitive prices, with Cured Pharmacy offering sildenafil from just £0.45 per tablet, making it one of the most cost-effective erectile dysfunction treatments available. This affordability, combined with proven efficacy, makes sildenafil an accessible first-line option for many men.

Generic tadalafil is also available at competitive UK pricing, starting from £0.45 at Cured Pharmacy. While slightly more expensive per tablet than sildenafil, the extended duration may offer better value for men who prefer dosing flexibility or engage in sexual activity multiple times over a weekend. Both medications are available via free online consultation with our UK-registered prescribers, with discreet next-day delivery across the UK.

When evaluating sildenafil v tadalafil from a cost perspective, consider frequency of use and personal preference. Sildenafil may be more economical for occasional use, while daily tadalafil could be cost-effective for regular activity. Cured Pharmacy guarantees the lowest UK prices and offers 20% off your first order with code Ednew, ensuring accessible, transparent pricing without hidden fees.

Scientific References

  1. Goldstein, I., Lue, T. F., Padma-Nathan, H., Rosen, R. C., Steers, W. D., & Wicker, P. A. (1998). Oral sildenafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. New England Journal of Medicine, 338(20), 1397-1404.
  2. Carson, C. C., & Lue, T. F. (2005). Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction. BJU International, 96(3), 257-280.
  3. Porst, H., Padma-Nathan, H., Giuliano, F., Anglin, G., Varanese, L., & Rosen, R. (2003). Efficacy of tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction at 24 and 36 hours after dosing: a randomized controlled trial. Urology, 62(1), 121-126.
  4. Brock, G. B., McMahon, C. G., Chen, K. K., Costigan, T., Shen, W., Watkins, V., ... & Whitaker, J. S. (2002). Efficacy and safety of tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: results of integrated analyses. Journal of Urology, 168(4), 1332-1336.
  5. Eardley, I., Mirone, V., Montorsi, F., Ralph, D., Kell, P., Warner, M., & Büttner, H. (2005). An open-label, multicentre, randomized, crossover study comparing sildenafil citrate and tadalafil for treating erectile dysfunction in men naive to phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor therapy. BJU International, 96(9), 1323-1332.
  6. Kloner, R. A., & Zusman, R. M. (2009). Cardiovascular effects of sildenafil citrate and recommendations for its use. American Journal of Cardiology, 84(5), 11N-17N.

Information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. All prescription treatments require clinical assessment by a UK-registered prescriber. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

How it Works?

Select from our recommended UK-licensed medications.

1

Choose your treatment

Step 1: Choose your treatment from Cured Pharmacy

Select safe UK treatments. Quick answers.

2

Answer quick questions

Step 2: Answer quick consultation questions

We will deliver direct to you as quickly as tomorrow.

3

Get it delivered fast

Step 3: Fast discreet delivery to your door

Start Your Assessment For Erectile Dysfunction

Start your journey to better health today.

  • Reviewed by UK-based prescribers
  • Takes under 3 minutes
  • Discreet Packaging

Start Your Journey To Better Health Today

Once you complete a short online assessment you will be able to choose your preferred treatment from safe medically approved options tailored to you.

Start My Assessment

Returning Customer?

Log in to Your Account

Faq

Which is better for erectile dysfunction, sildenafil v tadalafil?
Neither is objectively better — sildenafil v tadalafil have comparable efficacy (70-85% success rates), but differ in duration and dosing flexibility. Sildenafil suits planned activity with a 4-6 hour window, while tadalafil offers up to 36 hours of effectiveness and daily dosing options.
Can I switch between sildenafil v tadalafil?
Yes, you can switch between sildenafil v tadalafil under prescriber guidance. Some men try both to determine which suits their lifestyle and tolerability profile best. Always consult your clinician before changing medications.
Is sildenafil v tadalafil safer for heart patients?
Both sildenafil v tadalafil have similar cardiovascular safety profiles and are contraindicated with nitrates. Men with stable cardiovascular disease can often use either medication safely, but specialist assessment is essential before starting treatment.
How quickly does sildenafil v tadalafil work?
Sildenafil typically works within 30-60 minutes, while tadalafil can take effect within 30 minutes. However, tadalafil's effects last up to 36 hours compared to sildenafil's 4-6 hours.
Can I take sildenafil v tadalafil with alcohol?
Moderate alcohol consumption is unlikely to interfere significantly with either medication, but excessive alcohol can impair erectile function and increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and hypotension.
What is the cheapest option when comparing sildenafil v tadalafil?
Sildenafil is generally the most cost-effective option, available from £0.45 per tablet at Cured Pharmacy. Tadalafil starts from £0.45, but its longer duration may offer better value for frequent use.
Do sildenafil v tadalafil require a prescription in the UK?
Yes, both sildenafil v tadalafil are prescription-only medications in the UK and require clinical assessment by a registered prescriber. Cured Pharmacy offers a free, confidential online consultation with UK clinicians.
Can I take sildenafil v tadalafil daily?
Tadalafil is licensed for daily use at 2.5mg or 5mg doses, providing continuous readiness. Sildenafil is intended for on-demand use only and should not be taken more than once per day.
Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist

Medically reviewed by

Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist (GPhC 2233073)

Last reviewed: 1 August 2026