ED and Shockwave · Ontario

Sildenafil vs Tadalafil: What Are the Differences?

MAMBA Men’s Clinics · 3 min read

The short answer

Sildenafil vs tadalafil is a comparison of two prescription ED medications: sildenafil is the drug in Viagra, and tadalafil is the drug in Cialis. Both are available by prescription in Ontario. At MAMBA Men's Clinics, a complimentary consult covers how each one is used and which fits your routine.

In this article

Key takeaways

  • Sildenafil is the drug in Viagra; tadalafil is the drug in Cialis.
  • Both are prescription ED medications in Canada, with generic versions available.
  • Men compare them mainly on how each fits their routine.
  • A MAMBA clinician covers the specifics at a complimentary consult.

What is the difference between sildenafil vs tadalafil?

Sildenafil and tadalafil are two different prescription medications for erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra, and tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis.

Both belong to the same family of ED medications, called PDE5 inhibitors. They differ in how they are used day to day, and your clinician explains those differences in detail at a complimentary consult.

How do sildenafil and tadalafil compare at a glance?

At a glance, the two share a lot: both are prescription pills, both have generic versions in Canada and both are offered through MAMBA's virtual medication pathway.

FeatureSildenafilTadalafil
Brand nameViagraCialis
Medication familyPDE5 inhibitorPDE5 inhibitor
Prescription in CanadaYesYes
Generic available in CanadaYesYes
Through MAMBAVirtual, anywhere in OntarioVirtual, anywhere in Ontario

Why do men compare Viagra vs Cialis?

Men compare Viagra and Cialis because they want the option that suits their lifestyle and relationship. Many have heard different things from friends or online.

  • They want to know how each one fits their routine
  • They are curious about generic versions and cost
  • They have tried one and want to ask about the other
  • They want to know how a pill fits with other options

How do you choose between sildenafil and tadalafil?

The choice is made with a clinician, based on your health history, routine and goals. There is no one answer for every man.

How each medication is taken, and how it fits with your health, are specifics your MAMBA clinician walks through with you. Learn more on the ED assessment and medication pathways page.

How do you get sildenafil or tadalafil in Ontario?

You get either medication through a prescription from a licensed clinician. MAMBA offers this through virtual visits anywhere in Ontario.

You must be physically in Ontario during the visit, and prescriptions go to a licensed pharmacy. Our post on getting ED medication online in Ontario explains the steps, and shockwave vs Viagra or Cialis compares pills with in-clinic care.

How do I book a complimentary consult with MAMBA?

Book a complimentary consult online, or start with the free MAMBA Health Score, which takes about 2 minutes. An optional $1 virtual consultation includes a personalized plan for men in Durham Region, Waterloo Region and across Ontario.

Frequently asked questions

Is generic sildenafil the same as Viagra?

Generic sildenafil contains the same active ingredient as Viagra. Generic versions are sold in Canada by prescription, often at a different cost than the brand name. A MAMBA clinician explains brand and generic options during a complimentary consult in Ontario.

Is generic tadalafil the same as Cialis?

Generic tadalafil contains the same active ingredient as Cialis and is available in Canada by prescription. A MAMBA clinician explains how generic tadalafil and brand-name Cialis compare during a complimentary consult offered virtually across Ontario.

Can I switch from sildenafil to tadalafil?

Some men ask about switching from sildenafil to tadalafil, or the other way around. Switching medications is a decision made with a clinician. A MAMBA clinician reviews the man's history and goals before any change, during a virtual visit in Ontario.

Does OHIP pay for sildenafil or tadalafil?

OHIP covers insured physician services, not most prescription drugs for adults. Sildenafil and tadalafil are paid through a private drug plan or out of pocket, depending on the plan. MAMBA explains medication cost factors during a complimentary consult.

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