Viagra and Cialis are in a class of drugs called PDE-5 inhibitors which work by blocking an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5. They also elevate nitric oxide production that dialate the blood vessels. This action encourages the muscles in your penis to relax. Relaxed muscles allow blood to flow freely so that when you’re aroused, you can get an erection. It also helps men maintain their erection long enough to have sex.

When men get sexually aroused, the internal flood gates down below open up and blood engorges the penis causing an erection. With some men, there are too many “fun governors” (PDE-5 enzyme) that have set up and built a dam. Just like a dam being a barrier to control water flooding and flowing, these PDE-5 enzymes want to put a stop to the blood flow and prevent the party from getting started down below and in the bedroom.

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This is where PDE-5 inhibitors come into play acting like a big protective brother to us to go throw some knock out blows to beat them and their barriers down and out of the way and let the blood flow back into the penis where we want it for a period of time. How much time is where the difference comes in between Viagra and Cialis.

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The PDE5 inhibitors are often (and sometimes incorrectly), prescribed as the first-line of treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). However, their use is not recommended in men who have recent history of stroke or heart attack (within the last 6-8 weeks), or who have significantly low blood pressure, unstable angina, uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe cardiac failure, severe liver impairment or kidney disease.

If and when erectile dysfunction is present, it is important to acknowledge and address any lifestyle factors or hormone imbalance or deficiencies FIRST as a foundational approach. Often, a few simple corrections here such as optimizing testosterone in a man with Low T can make all the difference for many men in bedroom. However, the two drugs lend an amazing helping hand to many men needing one and work wonders!