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Tadalafil Sildenafil - Cheapest UK Price £0.45

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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
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Tadalafil and Sildenafil: A Clinical Comparison for Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

When choosing between tadalafil sildenafil for erectile dysfunction, understanding the clinical differences is essential for optimal treatment outcomes. Both medications are phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors proven effective in clinical trials, yet they differ significantly in duration of action, onset time, and suitability for different lifestyles. As a UK-registered pharmacy with superintendent pharmacist Tarun Kumar (GPhC 2233073) overseeing clinical consultations, Cured Pharmacy offers transparent pricing and expert guidance to help you make an informed choice between these two gold-standard treatments.

How Tadalafil and Sildenafil Work for Erectile Dysfunction

Both tadalafil sildenafil function as selective PDE5 inhibitors, blocking the enzyme that degrades cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the smooth muscle cells of the penis [1]. This mechanism allows increased blood flow during sexual stimulation, facilitating erections in men with erectile dysfunction. The fundamental pharmacological pathway is identical for both medications, which explains their comparable efficacy rates in clinical trials.

Despite sharing the same mechanism, the molecular structure differs between these agents, resulting in distinct pharmacokinetic profiles. Sildenafil has a half-life of approximately 4 hours, whilst tadalafil's half-life extends to 17.5 hours [2]. This difference translates directly into clinical practice: sildenafil typically provides effective coverage for 4-6 hours, whereas tadalafil can remain active for up to 36 hours. Both require sexual stimulation to work and do not cause spontaneous erections.

Tadalafil Sildenafil Duration and Onset Differences

The onset and duration profiles represent the most clinically significant distinction when comparing tadalafil sildenafil options. Sildenafil typically begins working within 30-60 minutes of administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached at approximately 60 minutes on an empty stomach [1]. Food, particularly high-fat meals, can delay absorption and reduce peak concentrations by up to 29%.

Tadalafil demonstrates a slightly slower onset, typically becoming effective within 60-120 minutes, but its extended duration of action offers greater spontaneity for sexual activity [2]. Clinical trials have confirmed tadalafil's efficacy window extends to 36 hours post-dose, earning it the descriptor 'the weekend pill' among prescribers. This pharmacokinetic advantage makes tadalafil particularly suitable for men who prefer not to time medication precisely before sexual activity.

Daily Dosing Considerations

Tadalafil uniquely offers a daily low-dose regimen (2.5mg or 5mg) for continuous erectile function support, whereas sildenafil is exclusively prescribed on-demand. Daily tadalafil maintains steady plasma levels, eliminating the need to plan medication timing around sexual activity [3]. This approach may benefit men who engage in sexual activity more than twice weekly or who prefer continuous readiness.

Efficacy Comparison: Tadalafil Sildenafil Clinical Trial Data

Head-to-head trials and meta-analyses demonstrate comparable overall efficacy between tadalafil sildenafil for erectile dysfunction treatment. A systematic review of randomised controlled trials found that both medications significantly improved erectile function scores compared to placebo, with success rates (defined as successful intercourse) ranging from 60-85% depending on underlying aetiology and severity [4].

Sildenafil has been studied extensively since its approval in 1998, with trials showing improvement in International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores by an average of 8-10 points across doses of 50-100mg [1]. Tadalafil trials, including pivotal studies leading to MHRA approval, demonstrated similar IIEF improvements with 10-20mg doses [2]. Patient preference studies suggest tadalafil may have a slight edge in satisfaction scores, likely attributable to its extended duration rather than superior efficacy per se.

Feature Sildenafil Tadalafil
Onset of action 30-60 minutes 60-120 minutes
Duration of effect 4-6 hours Up to 36 hours
Typical on-demand dose 50mg (25-100mg) 10mg (10-20mg)
Daily dosing option Not available 2.5-5mg daily
Food interaction Delayed by high-fat meals Minimal food interaction
Starting price at Cured From £0.45 From £9.99
Common side effects Headache, flushing, visual changes Headache, flushing, back pain
Dosing frequency Maximum once daily Once daily (on-demand or daily)

Side Effects Profile: Tadalafil Sildenafil Safety Comparison

The side effect profiles of tadalafil sildenafil overlap considerably, as both are PDE5 inhibitors with similar mechanisms. Common adverse effects include headache (11-16% of users), flushing (10-13%), dyspepsia (7-12%), and nasal congestion (4-10%) [1][2]. These effects are generally mild to moderate and transient, resolving without intervention.

Sildenafil demonstrates a slightly higher incidence of visual disturbances, including blue-tinged vision and increased light sensitivity, affecting approximately 3-11% of users at higher doses [4]. This occurs due to weak inhibition of PDE6, an enzyme found in retinal photoreceptors. Tadalafil shows greater selectivity for PDE5 over PDE6, resulting in fewer visual effects but a marginally higher incidence of back pain and myalgia (affecting 6-12% of users), attributed to PDE11 inhibition in skeletal muscle [3].

Both medications are contraindicated with nitrate medications due to the risk of severe hypotension. All prescription treatments require clinical assessment by a UK-registered prescriber at Cured Pharmacy to screen for contraindications and ensure safe prescribing tailored to individual cardiovascular health and concurrent medications.

Cardiovascular Safety Considerations

Extensive post-marketing surveillance and cardiovascular outcome studies have confirmed the safety of both tadalafil sildenafil in men with stable cardiovascular disease [4]. However, men taking nitrates for angina, those with recent stroke or myocardial infarction (within 6 months), or uncontrolled hypertension require specialist cardiovascular assessment before PDE5 inhibitor therapy. Our UK clinical team evaluates cardiovascular risk factors during every online consultation.

Dosing and Administration: Tadalafil Sildenafil Practical Guidance

Sildenafil is typically initiated at 50mg taken approximately one hour before sexual activity, with dose adjustment to 25mg or 100mg based on efficacy and tolerability [1]. The maximum recommended dosing frequency is once daily. Taking sildenafil on an empty stomach optimises absorption, though this is not mandatory. Men over 65 or those with hepatic or renal impairment may require lower starting doses.

Tadalafil offers flexible dosing: on-demand dosing at 10mg (adjustable to 20mg) taken at least 30 minutes before activity, or daily dosing at 2.5-5mg regardless of sexual activity timing [2]. The daily regimen provides continuous therapeutic coverage, whilst on-demand dosing mirrors sildenafil's usage pattern. Daily tadalafil is particularly suited to men with lower urinary tract symptoms alongside erectile dysfunction, as it addresses both conditions simultaneously.

Food and Alcohol Interactions

Food significantly affects sildenafil absorption, with high-fat meals delaying onset by up to 60 minutes and reducing peak concentrations [1]. Tadalafil absorption is minimally affected by food, offering greater dosing flexibility [2]. Moderate alcohol consumption (1-2 units) is generally safe with both tadalafil sildenafil, though excessive alcohol can impair erectile function independently and increase the risk of hypotension and dizziness when combined with PDE5 inhibitors.

Cost and Accessibility: Tadalafil Sildenafil UK Pricing

At Cured Pharmacy, transparent pricing ensures you know costs upfront before completing your clinical consultation. Sildenafil represents the most cost-effective option for erectile dysfunction treatment, with prices starting from £0.45 per tablet. New customers receive 20% off their first order using code Ednew, making treatment even more accessible. Tadalafil pricing begins at £0.45, reflecting its extended duration and dosing flexibility.

Both tadalafil sildenafil are available as generic formulations in the UK, significantly reducing costs compared to branded equivalents like Viagra and Cialis. Generic medications contain identical active ingredients and meet the same MHRA quality standards as branded products. Our UK-registered clinical team provides free online consultations completed in under 3 minutes, with prescriptions issued by qualified prescribers following clinical assessment. All medications are dispensed from our GPhC-registered pharmacy (9012511) with discreet next-day delivery across the UK.

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., Rajfer, J., Eardley, I., Carrier, S., Denne, J. S., Walker, D. J., & Shen, W. (2004). The efficacy and safety of tadalafil: an update. BJU International, 93(9), 1276-1281.
  3. Porst, H., Giuliano, F., Glina, S., Ralph, D., Casabé, A. R., Elion-Mboussa, A., & Shen, W. (2006). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of once-a-day dosing of tadalafil 5mg and 10mg in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. European Urology, 50(2), 351-359.
  4. Yuan, J., Zhang, R., Yang, Z., Lee, J., Liu, Y., Tian, J., & Qin, X. (2013). Comparative effectiveness and safety of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. European Urology, 63(5), 902-912.

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.

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Faq

Which is better for erectile dysfunction: tadalafil or sildenafil?
Neither tadalafil sildenafil is objectively superior—both demonstrate comparable efficacy in clinical trials. The optimal choice depends on individual lifestyle preferences: sildenafil suits planned sexual activity with faster onset, whilst tadalafil offers extended duration and spontaneity. Your prescriber will discuss which aligns best with your needs during consultation.
Can I take tadalafil and sildenafil together?
No, you should never combine tadalafil sildenafil or take them within 24 hours of each other. Both are PDE5 inhibitors, and concurrent use significantly increases the risk of severe side effects including dangerous drops in blood pressure, prolonged erections, and cardiovascular complications.
How long does tadalafil last compared to sildenafil?
Sildenafil remains effective for approximately 4-6 hours, whilst tadalafil can work for up to 36 hours. This extended window with tadalafil allows greater spontaneity in sexual activity without needing to time medication precisely before intercourse.
Is tadalafil or sildenafil cheaper in the UK?
Sildenafil is significantly more cost-effective, starting from £0.45 per tablet at Cured Pharmacy compared to tadalafil from £0.45. Both are available as MHRA-approved generic formulations, with new customers saving 20% using code Ednew on their first order.
Do tadalafil and sildenafil have different side effects?
The side effect profiles of tadalafil sildenafil overlap considerably, with headache, flushing, and dyspepsia common to both. Sildenafil causes visual disturbances more frequently, whilst tadalafil is associated with slightly higher rates of back pain and muscle aches due to different PDE enzyme selectivity.
Can I switch from sildenafil to tadalafil?
Yes, switching between tadalafil sildenafil is safe and common when patients find one medication better suits their lifestyle or tolerability profile. You must complete a new clinical assessment with our UK prescribers before switching, ensuring the alternative treatment is appropriate for your cardiovascular health and concurrent medications.
Which works faster: tadalafil or sildenafil?
Sildenafil typically has a faster onset, working within 30-60 minutes compared to tadalafil's 60-120 minutes. However, tadalafil's slower onset is offset by its significantly longer duration of action, providing effective coverage for up to 36 hours versus sildenafil's 4-6 hours.
Do I need a prescription for tadalafil and sildenafil in the UK?
Yes, both tadalafil sildenafil are prescription-only medications (POM) in the UK, requiring clinical assessment by a registered prescriber. Cured Pharmacy provides free online consultations with UK-registered clinicians who review your medical history and issue prescriptions subject to clinical suitability, with dispensing from our GPhC-registered pharmacy.
Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist

Medically reviewed by

Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist (GPhC 2233073)

Last reviewed: 1 August 2026