ED Treatment Selection Tool
Find Your Best ED Treatment
Select your priorities to get personalized recommendations based on the latest medical evidence.
Recommended Treatment Options
Key Takeaways
- Cialis sublingual works within 15‑30 minutes and lasts up to 36 hours, offering the fastest onset among oral ED drugs.
- Viagra and Levitra provide slightly slower onset (30‑60 minutes) but are cheaper long‑term.
- Stendra delivers the quickest onset (as fast as 15 minutes) but at a premium price.
- Injectable alprostadil (Caverject) bypasses the digestive system entirely, giving immediate effect but requiring proper technique.
- Natural supplements such as L‑arginine may help mild cases but lack the reliability of prescription options.
How to Choose the Right ED Treatment
Before diving into individual products, think about what matters most to you. Typical decision factors include:
- Onset time - how quickly the medication works after taking it.
- Duration - how long the effect lasts.
- Dosage form - tablet, sublingual, injection, or supplement.
- Side‑effect profile - common reactions and contraindications.
- Cost and insurance coverage.
- Ease of use - whether you’re comfortable with injections or prefer a simple tablet.
Match these criteria to your lifestyle, health status, and budget for the best fit.
What Is Cialis Sublingual (Tadalafil)?
When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction, Cialis Sublingual (Tadalafil) is a fast‑acting, sublingual tablet that delivers tadalafil through the mouth’s mucous lining for rapid absorption. The drug was approved in the U.K. in 2020 and is marketed for men who need a quick response without waiting for a full‑dose oral tablet to dissolve.
Typical dosing starts at 10 mg taken under the tongue about 15‑30 minutes before sexual activity. Because the medication bypasses the stomach, food has little impact on effectiveness. The effect can last up to 36 hours, giving a large window for spontaneity.
Common side effects include mild headache, facial flushing, and occasional nasal congestion. Men with severe cardiovascular disease should consult a doctor before use.
Viagra (Sildenafil) - The Classic Oral Tablet
Viagra (Sildenafil) is the original oral phosphodiesterase‑5 inhibitor launched in 1998. It comes in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets meant to be swallowed with water.
Onset is typically 30‑60 minutes, and the effect lasts about 4‑6 hours. Because it’s absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, a heavy meal can delay activity. Side effects mirror those of Cialis - headache, flushing, indigestion - but the shorter duration makes it a good option for occasional use.
Levitra (Vardenafil) - A Slightly Different Profile
Levitra (Vardenafil) provides a middle ground between Viagra and Cialis. Tablets are available in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg strengths.
Onset ranges from 25‑60 minutes, with a duration of about 5‑8 hours. Levitra is known for a slightly lower impact on visual perception compared with sildenafil, which some men appreciate.
Stendra (Avanafil) - The Fastest Oral Option
Stendra (Avanafil) is a newer PDE‑5 inhibitor marketed for its rapid onset - as fast as 15 minutes in many users.
Dosage forms include 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg tablets. The effect lasts about 6‑12 hours, shorter than Cialis but longer than Viagra. Stendra’s side‑effect profile is similar but tends to be milder, making it attractive for men who want quick action without a long window.
Generic Oral Tadalafil - The Budget Friendly Alternative
Standard oral tadalafil tablets (often sold as generic “Cialis”) work the same way as the brand, but the onset is slower - roughly 30‑60 minutes - because the drug must dissolve in the stomach first. The duration remains impressive at up to 36 hours.
Generic versions are typically priced lower than the branded sublingual version, making them a cost‑effective choice for men who can plan ahead.
Caverject (Alprostadil) - Injectable Solution
Caverject (Alprostadil) is an injectable form of prostaglandin E1. It works by directly dilating blood vessels in the penis, producing an erection within 5‑10 minutes.
The drug is delivered via a fine needle into the base of the penis. While highly effective for men who don’t respond to oral PDE‑5 inhibitors, it requires training and carries a risk of bruising or pain at the injection site.
Natural Supplement - L‑Arginine
L‑Arginine is an amino acid that can boost nitric oxide production, theoretically improving blood flow. Doses of 2‑5 grams daily are common. Evidence is mixed; some studies show modest benefit while others find no significant effect.
Because it’s over‑the‑counter and inexpensive, L‑Arginine may be worth trying for mild erectile issues, but it won’t match the reliability of prescription drugs.
Side‑By‑Side Comparison
| Drug | Dosage Form | Onset | Duration | Typical Cost (UK) | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cialis Sublingual (Tadalafil) | Sublingual tablet | 15‑30 min | Up to 36 hr | £45‑£60 per pack | Headache, flushing, nasal congestion |
| Viagra (Sildenafil) | Oral tablet | 30‑60 min | 4‑6 hr | £20‑£30 per pack | Headache, dyspepsia, visual changes |
| Levitra (Vardenafil) | Oral tablet | 25‑60 min | 5‑8 hr | £25‑£35 per pack | Headache, flushing, rhinitis |
| Stendra (Avanafil) | Oral tablet | 15‑30 min | 6‑12 hr | £50‑£70 per pack | Headache, back pain, nasal congestion |
| Generic Tadalafil (Oral) | Oral tablet | 30‑60 min | Up to 36 hr | £15‑£25 per pack | Headache, dyspepsia, muscle aches |
| Caverject (Alprostadil) | Injectable solution | 5‑10 min | 30‑60 min | £120‑£150 per vial | Pain, bruising, priapism |
| L‑Arginine (Supplement) | Oral powder/capsule | Variable (days-weeks) | Variable | £8‑£12 per month | GI upset, low blood pressure |
Best Choice By Situation
- Need the fastest response: Stendra or Cialis Sublingual are top picks; both can work within 15 minutes.
- Prefer a long window for spontaneity: Cialis Sublingual or generic oral tadalafil give up to 36 hours.
- Looking for the most affordable daily option: Generic oral tadalafil or Viagra provide proven efficacy at a lower price.
- Cannot take oral meds due to gastrointestinal issues: Caverject bypasses the digestive system and works within minutes.
- Mild symptoms and want a natural route: L‑Arginine may help, but set realistic expectations.
Potential Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Even the best‑rated drug can cause problems if misused. Here are three common pitfalls and quick fixes:
- Taking a PDE‑5 inhibitor with nitrate medication - This combo can dangerously lower blood pressure. Always disclose heart meds to your prescriber.
- Using the wrong dosage form - Sublingual tablets must dissolve under the tongue, not be swallowed. Swallowing defeats the rapid‑onset benefit.
- Skipping the “wash‑out” period - Switching between drugs without a 24‑hour gap can increase side‑effect risk. Follow the recommended interval.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Cialis Sublingual work compared to regular Cialis?
Cialis Sublingual usually takes effect in 15‑30 minutes, while the standard oral tablet needs about 30‑60 minutes because it must dissolve in the stomach first.
Can I take Cialis Sublingual and Viagra on the same day?
No. Both drugs belong to the same class (PDE‑5 inhibitors) and taking them together can cause severe low blood pressure and other adverse effects.
Is the sublingual version prescription‑only in the UK?
Yes. A qualified prescriber must evaluate suitability, especially regarding heart health and medication interactions.
What should I do if I experience a prolonged erection?
Seek medical attention immediately. A prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism) can damage penile tissue.
Does taking Cialis Sublingual with food affect its performance?
Food has minimal impact because the drug is absorbed directly through the mouth lining, unlike oral tablets that can be delayed by a heavy meal.
