If you’ve ever wondered whether you can take Cialis in the morning and Viagra at night, the answer is not as simple as just a yes or no. Generally, doctors do not recommend combining these two medications because it could cause complications or reduce their effectiveness.
However, this doesn’t mean you are entirely out of options. In this article, we will explore how to manage Erectile Dysfunction (ED) treatment safely, whether you’re considering Cialis, Viagra, or even both. Read on for practical advice, risks, and guidance that could help you find the best solution for your needs.
Learning about Cialis and Viagra
Cialis (Tadalafil) and Viagra (Sildenafil) are both popular medications used to treat Erectile Dysfunction. These medications are part of the PDE5 inhibitor class, and they work by enhancing blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal.
You might feel the temptation to take Cialis in the morning and Viagra at night, thinking that it would cover you throughout the day. However, it’s essential to understand that both medications have similar mechanisms of action, so you don’t need to combine them for effective treatment.
How Cialis and Viagra work
It helps to have a deeper awareness of how Cialis and Viagra function and their implications. Understanding how Cialis and Viagra work can enhance your experience with these medications, as both belong to a class called PDE5 inhibitors. They function by blocking the enzyme Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which breaks down cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP).
When PDE5 is blocked, cGMP levels increase, leading to relaxation of the blood vessels in the penis and allowing more blood to flow, which helps you achieve an erection. Notably, both medications require sexual stimulation to be effective and do not cause erections on their own.
Both medications enhance erectile function, but they differ in duration and timing of use. Doctors often prescribe medications like Cialis 20 mg or Tadalafil 20 mg for their long-lasting effects, which can provide relief for up to 36 hours. Sildenafil typically lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it suitable for more immediate use. To know how Viagra works to treat Erectile Dysfunction, read How Does Viagra Work?
Key differences between Cialis and Viagra
The active salts of Cialis and Viagra, Tadalafil and Sildenafil, respectively, are both popularly used to treat ED, but they have key differences that can influence a user’s choice. Here are the primary distinctions:
- Onset of action: Viagra typically takes 30 minutes to start working, with peak effectiveness reached around one hour after taking it. Eating a high-fat meal before taking the medication can delay its action. Cialis can start working in 16 to 45 minutes, but it might take up to two hours to reach its full effect. Significantly, food intake does not affect its effectiveness.
- Duration: The longer duration of Cialis allows for more spontaneity in sexual activity.
Understanding these differences is crucial when considering how to use these ED pills effectively.
Why combining Cialis and Viagra is not recommended
While some individuals may think about taking Cialis in the morning and Viagra at night for enhanced effects, this practice is unsafe. If you take Tadalafil in the morning, it will still be active in your system when you consider taking Viagra later that evening.
Taking these two medications together can raise the risk of side effects, including significant drops in blood pressure, which can be dangerous without providing additional benefits.
Both Viagra and Cialis come with potential side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Some of the common side effects include:
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Indigestion or upset stomach
- Back pain (more common with Cialis)
- Flushing or facial redness
How to take Viagra and Cialis together safely
There may be instances where your doctor might recommend using both medications. The combination may help in severe ED cases. If you’re wondering if it’s okay to take Cialis in the morning and Viagra at night, you should only consider this option after discussing it with a healthcare provider.
For example, while Sildenafil is typically taken shortly before sexual activity for immediate effect, Cialis can be taken daily for continuous availability, making it suitable for those who prefer spontaneity in intimate moments.
Always stick to your doctor’s instructions on dosage and timing. In most cases, your doctor will recommend either branded or generic Viagra or Cialis, but not both at the same time.
These are the recommended guidelines you should follow:
- Always talk to your doctor before starting any new medication regimen. They can assess your health history and recommend appropriate dosages.
- Avoid simultaneous use. Taking both medications on the same day can lead to an accumulation of PDE5 inhibitors in your system, increasing the likelihood of adverse effects such as low blood pressure, dizziness, or even Priapism (a long and painful erection).
- Wait at least 36 hours after taking Cialis before using Viagra, and ensure that you do not take Viagra within this timeframe either.
- If your current dosage is insufficient, consult your healthcare provider rather than self-medicating with additional doses.
While both medications are effective for Erectile Dysfunction, they should not be taken on the same day without medical supervision due to safety concerns.
Furthermore, if you find one medication ineffective, your healthcare provider may consider several options. They might recommend adjusting the dosage of either medication, switching to a different medication altogether, or exploring alternative treatment approaches, such as therapy or lifestyle changes.
What medications can’t be taken with Cialis or Viagra?

Certain medications can have harmful interactions with Cialis and Viagra, specifically concerning blood pressure. To ensure your safety and prevent serious side effects, it’s crucial to avoid these specific medications while taking these Erectile Dysfunction treatments. Understanding these interactions is essential for maintaining your health.
Nitrates
You should not take both Cialis and Viagra with any nitrate medications, which are often prescribed for angina (chest pain). Combining these can lead to a significant drop in blood pressure, potentially causing dizziness, fainting, or even heart attack. Common nitrates include
Nitroglycerin and Isosorbide Dinitrate.
Alpha-Blockers
Alpha-blockers, often used for high blood pressure or prostate issues, may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of Cialis and Viagra, leading to potential complications. Examples include Tamsulosin and Alfuzosin.
Guanylate Cyclase Stimulants
These medications are used for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension and can also lower blood pressure. Taking them with Cialis or Viagra can exacerbate this effect. Examples include Riociguat.
Other PDE5 Inhibitors
Taking multiple PDE5 inhibitors at once, like Cialis or Viagra, with other Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (like Avanafil or Vardenafil) is not recommended due to the increased risk of side effects without improving efficacy.
Antifungal and Antibiotic Medications
Certain antifungals (like Ketoconazole) and antibiotics (like Clarithromycin) can increase the side effects of Cialis and Viagra by affecting how your body metabolizes these medications.
Before starting treatment with Cialis or Viagra, it is essential to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking. This will help avoid dangerous interactions and ensure safe and effective treatment for Erectile Dysfunction.
What to do If Cialis or Viagra doesn’t work
If you’re not seeing the results you want with either branded generic Viagra or Cialis, it’s essential to consult with your doctor. Factors like stress, fatigue, or even diet can sometimes impact how well these medications work.
In some cases, your doctor may advise lifestyle changes or other treatments, such as:
- Penile injections: For those who have trouble with oral medications, injectable treatments can be effective.
- Penile implants: A surgical option for individuals with severe ED that doesn’t respond to medications.
- Vacuum Erection Devices (VED): These devices use suction to bring blood to the penis and help create an erection.
Conclusion
Taking Cialis in the morning and Viagra at night is not safe and is generally not recommended. Cialis lasts up to 36 hours, while Viagra only lasts around 4 hours. Combining them can cause side effects like low blood pressure, dizziness, or even more serious problems. Always follow your doctor’s advice on how and when to take these medications.
You should also avoid combining Cialis or Viagra with certain medications, like nitrates or other PDE5 inhibitors, as they can cause dangerous interactions. If you have trouble with ED treatments, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, injections, or other options. It’s best to talk to your doctor about which medication is right for you and follow their advice carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it cause permanent damage if I take Viagra and Cialis together?
Taking Viagra and Cialis together can be risky. It may cause Priapism, leading to Peyronie’s disease, which can be painful and hard to treat. It can also dangerously lower blood pressure and cause heart problems. Always consult a doctor first.
How long does it take for Cialis and Viagra to work?
Cialis usually starts working in about 30 minutes but can take up to 2 hours for full effects. Viagra works faster, often in 30 to 60 minutes. Both need sexual arousal to help you get an erection.
Can I take low-dose Cialis and Viagra together?
Taking low-dose Cialis and Viagra together is not safe. It can cause serious problems like low blood pressure or prolonged erections. Always talk to a healthcare provider before mixing these medications to stay safe and healthy.
Can you drink alcohol when taking Cialis or Viagra?
No, you should not drink alcohol when taking Cialis or Viagra. Drinking too much can cause serious side effects like low blood pressure, dizziness, and heart problems. It’s best to limit alcohol to one or two drinks only.
Does Cialis make you harder than Viagra?
No, Cialis does not make you harder than Viagra. Both help you get an erection, but Viagra may give you slightly firmer erections for a short time. Cialis lasts longer, up to 36 hours, for more chances to engage in sexual activity.
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