Generic Cialis vs. Generic Viagra Prices: What’s The Difference?
By RxSaver Editors••Updated April 21, 2021
Viagra and Cialis are both used to treat erectile dysfunction, but they work a little differently, and there may be a difference in cost between the two. Read on to learn more about the difference between Viagra and Cialis.
What is the difference between Viagra and Cialis?
There are three key differences between Viagra and Cialis. They are:
- Length of time the medication is effective
- Cialis is also prescribed to treat symptoms of an enlarged prostate
- Generic Cialis is more expensive than generic Viagra using an RxSaver coupon
How are Viagra and Cialis different?
Viagra and Cialis are both in a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5). Incidentally, vardenafil (generic Levitra) and avanafil (generic Stendra) are also in this class of drugs. However, there are a few subtle differences between Viagra and Cialis.
Effects of Cialis Last Longer Than Viagra
The main difference between Cialis and Viagra is that Cialis presumably lasts longer than Viagra. Once Viagra is ingested for erectile dysfunction, it’s effects should last for up to four hours. The effects of Cialis, however, can be experienced for up to 36 hours.
Cialis Also Treats Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate
Both Viagra and Cialis are prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. But Cialis is also used to treat the symptoms of [benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is also known as an enlarged prostate. BPH can be incredibly disruptive, painful, and lead to other medical problems if left untreated.
Cost Difference Between Viagra and Cialis
It’s no secret that Viagra and Cialis are expensive brand name drugs – often referred to, by insurance formularies, as lifestyle drugs. This can make their coverage by insurance sparse. Fortunately, generic Cialis and generic Viagra are available, and are much cheaper than their brand counterpart. Both are very affordable with or without insurance, when you use an RxSaver coupon.
The cost of tadalafil, the generic for Cialis without insurance starts at $20.20* for 20 mg and 30 tablets using an RxSaver coupon.
The cost of sildenafil, the generic for Viagra without insurance starts at $13.22 for 20 mg and 30 tablets using an RxSaver coupon.
Is Viagra better than Cialis?
Both medications have proven effective at treating erectile dysfunction. In multiple clinical trials, both Viagra and Cialis showed similar safety and effectiveness in patients. So there is no objective standard for measuring which medication is better.
How To Determine Which Medication Is Right For You
Talk with your health care provider about your symptoms of erectile dysfunction. They will be able to help you decide which medication is best suited for you, taking into consideration other medications you take, and your overall health.
*Lowest online price at national pharmacy chains Costco, CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens and Walmart as of 4/21/2021. Prices vary by location and pharmacy, see RxSaver.com for actual pricing in your area.
RxSaver Editors
RxSaver Editors are wellness enthusiasts who help you learn how you can save the most on prescription medication costs and other health-related topics.
Carina Fung, PharmD, BCPPS
Carina Fung, PharmD, BCPPS., is a pharmacist who earned her PharmD from St. John’s University in Queens, NY. She maintains an active practice, serving as a Board-Certified Pediatric Pharmacotherapy Specialist at a large metropolitan teaching hospital in New York City. Carina has also published in pharmacy journals and works as a consultant reviewing medical articles for publication.
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