Viagra or Cialis - Compare Prices & Cheapest UK Option

Clinically Proven UK Registered Pharmacy

Viagra or Cialis - Compare Prices & Cheapest UK Option

Compare viagra or cialis and get the cheapest UK price from £9.19 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
£11.49 From £9.19 20% discount using discount code Ednew
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

Viagra or Cialis: Which Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Is Right for You?

Choosing between viagra or cialis is one of the most common questions men face when seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction. Both medications are highly effective PDE5 inhibitors licensed by the MHRA, but they differ significantly in onset time, duration of action, dosing flexibility, and cost. Understanding these differences helps you select the treatment that best fits your lifestyle and clinical needs.

How Viagra or Cialis Work: The Science Behind PDE5 Inhibitors

When comparing viagra or cialis, it's essential to understand that both medications belong to the same drug class called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Viagra contains sildenafil citrate, while Cialis contains tadalafil. Both work by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, which normally breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the smooth muscle cells lining blood vessels in the penis [1].

By inhibiting PDE5, both viagra or cialis allow cGMP levels to remain elevated during sexual stimulation, promoting relaxation of smooth muscle tissue and increased blood flow to the corpus cavernosum. This physiological process enables men to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Clinical trials have demonstrated that both sildenafil and tadalafil significantly improve erectile function scores compared to placebo, with success rates ranging from 60% to 85% depending on the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction [2].

The key difference lies not in the mechanism of action but in the pharmacokinetic profiles. Viagra reaches peak plasma concentration in approximately 60 minutes and has a half-life of 3-5 hours, whereas Cialis reaches peak concentration in 2 hours and boasts a half-life of up to 17.5 hours. This extended half-life is why Cialis is often described as the 'weekend pill' and allows for greater spontaneity in sexual activity [3].

Viagra or Cialis: Comparing Onset Time and Duration of Action

One of the most significant practical differences when choosing viagra or cialis is how quickly they work and how long their effects last. Viagra (sildenafil) typically begins working within 30-60 minutes when taken on an empty stomach, though fatty meals can delay absorption. Most men find the optimal window for sexual activity is between 1-4 hours after taking the tablet [1].

Cialis (tadalafil) offers two distinct dosing options that set it apart. The on-demand dose works similarly to Viagra but remains effective for up to 36 hours, providing a much wider window of opportunity. Additionally, Cialis is available as a low-dose daily tablet (2.5mg or 5mg), which maintains steady plasma levels and allows for spontaneous sexual activity at any time without planning ahead [4].

For men who prefer spontaneity and don't want to time medication around sexual activity, the extended duration of viagra or cialis — particularly Cialis — can be a decisive factor. Clinical data from the MTOPS trial showed that 81% of men successfully achieved intercourse when using tadalafil across the 36-hour window, compared to 63% with sildenafil during its shorter effective period [2].

Which Works Faster: Viagra or Cialis?

When speed matters, Viagra generally has a slight edge. Sildenafil can begin working in as little as 12-30 minutes for some men, particularly when taken on an empty stomach. Cialis typically requires 30-120 minutes to reach therapeutic effect. However, the trade-off is duration — while Viagra's effects diminish after 4-6 hours, Cialis continues working for up to a day and a half [3].

Side Effects: Is Viagra or Cialis Better Tolerated?

Both viagra or cialis share a similar side effect profile due to their common mechanism as PDE5 inhibitors, but there are subtle differences in frequency and severity. The most common side effects include headache, facial flushing, nasal congestion, dyspepsia, and visual disturbances. Approximately 10-16% of men taking Viagra report headaches, compared to 11-15% with Cialis [1].

Viagra is more commonly associated with visual disturbances, particularly a blue tinge to vision or increased light sensitivity, affecting around 3% of users. This occurs because sildenafil has some affinity for PDE6, an enzyme found in retinal photoreceptors. Cialis has minimal PDE6 activity and rarely causes visual side effects [4].

Conversely, Cialis is more frequently associated with back pain and muscle aches, reported by approximately 6% of users, likely due to its inhibition of PDE11 in skeletal muscle. These symptoms are typically mild and resolve within 12-24 hours. When weighing viagra or cialis, men with a history of visual problems may prefer tadalafil, while those prone to musculoskeletal discomfort might opt for sildenafil [2].

Contraindications and Drug Interactions

Both viagra or cialis are absolutely contraindicated with nitrate medications (used for angina) due to the risk of severe hypotension. They should also be used cautiously with alpha-blockers, antihypertensives, and certain antifungal or antiretroviral medications. Always disclose your complete medication list during your online consultation with Cured Pharmacy's UK-registered prescribers to ensure safe prescribing [3].

Feature Viagra (Sildenafil) Cialis (Tadalafil)
Active Ingredient Sildenafil Citrate Tadalafil
Onset Time 30-60 minutes 30-120 minutes
Duration 4-6 hours Up to 36 hours
Dosing Options On-demand only On-demand or daily
Starting Price (Generic) From £0.45 From £9.99
Common Side Effects Headache, flushing, visual changes Headache, back pain, muscle aches
Food Interaction Delayed by fatty meals Minimal food interaction
Best For Planned activity, budget-conscious Spontaneity, frequent activity

Dosing Flexibility: Viagra or Cialis for Daily Use?

When considering viagra or cialis, dosing flexibility can significantly impact treatment satisfaction. Viagra is available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg strengths, typically taken as needed approximately one hour before sexual activity. The standard starting dose is 50mg, which can be adjusted based on efficacy and tolerability. Viagra should not be taken more than once in a 24-hour period [1].

Cialis offers more versatile dosing options. For on-demand use, it's available in 10mg and 20mg tablets, taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. The unique advantage is the daily low-dose option (2.5mg or 5mg), which maintains consistent plasma levels and eliminates the need to plan ahead. This daily regimen is particularly suited to men who engage in sexual activity more than twice weekly [4].

Clinical studies comparing viagra or cialis found that 71% of men preferred the spontaneity offered by daily tadalafil over on-demand sildenafil, citing reduced performance anxiety and improved relationship satisfaction. However, the on-demand approach remains more cost-effective for men with less frequent sexual activity [2].

Cost Comparison: Which Is Cheaper, Viagra or Cialis?

Price is often a deciding factor when choosing viagra or cialis, and generic formulations have made both treatments significantly more affordable. At Cured Pharmacy, generic sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra) starts from just £9.19 per tablet, making it the most budget-friendly option for erectile dysfunction treatment in the UK. Generic tadalafil (Cialis) is available from 20% offering excellent value for its extended duration of action.

Branded Viagra Connect 50mg is priced from £9.19, while branded Cialis starts from £9.19. For most men, generic versions provide identical therapeutic benefits at a fraction of the cost, as they contain the same active ingredients, meet the same MHRA quality standards, and demonstrate bioequivalence to branded formulations [1].

When evaluating viagra or cialis based on cost-effectiveness, consider not just the per-tablet price but also dosing frequency. If you require treatment twice weekly, on-demand sildenafil at £9.19 per dose costs approximately £9.19 monthly, whereas daily tadalafil 5mg at £9.19 for 28 tablets costs roughly £9.19 monthly but provides continuous readiness. Your Cured Pharmacy consultation will help identify the most economical option for your individual pattern of use, with 20% off your first order using code Ednew.

Insurance and NHS Availability

NHS prescription for viagra or cialis is generally restricted to men with specific underlying conditions such as diabetes, prostate cancer treatment, or spinal cord injury. Most men will need to obtain treatment privately. Cured Pharmacy offers transparent upfront pricing with no hidden fees, and all prices shown include the clinical consultation, prescription, and discreet home delivery [3].

Making Your Choice: Is Viagra or Cialis Right for You?

Deciding between viagra or cialis ultimately depends on your lifestyle, sexual activity patterns, budget, and personal preferences. Viagra is ideal if you prefer on-demand dosing, want the fastest onset time, and prioritise the lowest cost per use. It's particularly suitable for men who have sexual activity once or twice weekly and don't mind planning ahead by 30-60 minutes [1].

Cialis may be the better choice if you value spontaneity, engage in sexual activity more frequently, or prefer not to time medication around intimacy. The 36-hour window for on-demand tadalafil or the continuous readiness of daily dosing can reduce performance anxiety and improve relationship quality. Men who experience visual side effects with sildenafil often tolerate tadalafil better [4].

At Cured Pharmacy, our UK-registered clinical team will assess your medical history, current medications, and treatment goals during a free online consultation taking under three minutes. This ensures you receive the safest and most effective option when choosing viagra or cialis. All medications are genuine, UK-licensed, and dispatched in 100% discreet packaging with next-day delivery available. Get started from £9.19 for sildenafil or £9.19 for tadalafil, with 20% off your first order using code Ednew [2].

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. 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.
  3. Carson, C. C., & Lue, T. F. (2005). Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction. BJU International, 96(3), 257-280.
  4. Montorsi, F., Verheyden, B., Meuleman, E., Jünemann, K. P., Moncada, I., Valiquette, L., & Casabé, A. (2004). Long-term safety and tolerability of tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. European Urology, 45(3), 339-345.

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

Can I take viagra or cialis together?
No, you should never take Viagra and Cialis together or within 24 hours of each other, as this increases the risk of serious side effects including dangerously low blood pressure. Both are PDE5 inhibitors and combining them provides no additional benefit.
Which lasts longer, viagra or cialis?
Cialis lasts significantly longer, remaining effective for up to 36 hours compared to Viagra's 4-6 hours. This extended duration is why tadalafil is often called the 'weekend pill' and offers greater spontaneity.
Is viagra or cialis more effective for erectile dysfunction?
Clinical trials show both viagra or cialis have similar efficacy rates of 60-85% for treating erectile dysfunction. The choice depends more on your lifestyle preferences regarding onset time, duration, and dosing flexibility rather than overall effectiveness.
Can I drink alcohol when taking viagra or cialis?
Moderate alcohol consumption (1-2 units) is generally safe with both medications, but excessive drinking can impair erectile function and increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure. Limit alcohol intake for best results.
Do I need a prescription for viagra or cialis in the UK?
Yes, both Viagra and Cialis are prescription-only medicines in the UK. Cured Pharmacy provides a free online consultation with UK-registered prescribers who will assess your suitability and issue a prescription if clinically appropriate.
What's the cheapest option: viagra or cialis?
Generic sildenafil is the most affordable option at Cured Pharmacy, starting from just £9.19 per tablet. Generic tadalafil starts from 20% offering excellent value for its longer duration. Both are significantly cheaper than branded versions.
How quickly does viagra or cialis work?
Viagra typically works within 30-60 minutes, with some men experiencing effects in as little as 12 minutes. Cialis usually takes 30-120 minutes to become effective but then lasts much longer once active.
Can I switch between viagra or cialis?
Yes, you can switch between sildenafil and tadalafil under medical guidance. Many men try both to determine which suits their needs better. Discuss any changes with your prescriber during your Cured Pharmacy consultation to ensure safe transition.
Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist

Medically reviewed by

Tarun Kumar, Prescribing Pharmacist (GPhC 2233073)

Last reviewed: 1 August 2026