When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction (ED), the market is flooded with pills, tablets, and branded options. Erectafil is one of the newer names you’ll see on pharmacy shelves, but how does it really stack up against the more established choices? This guide walks you through the key differences, side‑effect profiles, cost considerations, and practical tips so you can decide which option fits your lifestyle.
Erectafil is a pharmacy‑grade tablet that delivers 20mg of tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase type5 (PDE5) inhibitor designed to improve blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Launched in 2023, the product is marketed as a cost‑effective alternative to the well‑known brand Cialis while keeping the same active ingredient and duration of action.
Tadalafil belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor class, which includes several other ED drugs. By blocking the PDE5 enzyme, it allows cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) to accumulate, relaxing smooth muscle in the penile arteries and facilitating an erection. The effect can last up to 36hours, earning it the nickname “the weekend pill.”
Before diving into specific alternatives, let’s set the yardstick. The most relevant factors for a real‑world decision are:
Below are the most common competitors you’ll encounter, each with its own strengths.
Cialis is the brand‑name version of tadalafil, typically sold in 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg tablets. It shares the same 36‑hour window but carries a premium price due to brand recognition.
Viagra contains sildenafil, another PDE5 inhibitor. It works faster-usually within 30minutes-but its effect fades after 4‑6hours.
Levitra (vardenafil) offers a middle ground: onset in 15‑30minutes and duration of about 5‑8hours. It’s known for a slightly stronger visual side‑effect (blue‑tinted vision) in rare cases.
Stendra is the brand name for avanafil. It boasts the quickest onset-about 15minutes-but the effect lasts only 6‑12hours, making it useful for spontaneous activity.
Generic Tadalafil refers to non‑branded versions of the same active ingredient. Prices are usually the lowest, but quality can vary between manufacturers.
All PDE5 inhibitors share a core set of possible reactions because they affect the same physiological pathway. The table below highlights the most frequently reported side effects for each drug.
| Medication | Headache | Flushing | Back Pain | Vision Changes | Duration of Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Erectafil (Tadalafil 20mg) | 15% | 12% | 10% | 0% | 1‑2days |
| Cialis (Brand Tadalafil) | 14% | 13% | 9% | 0% | 1‑2days |
| Viagra (Sildenafil) | 22% | 20% | 5% | 2% | Few hours |
| Levitra (Vardenafil) | 18% | 16% | 6% | 1% | Few hours |
| Stendra (Avanafil) | 12% | 10% | 4% | 0% | Few hours |
| Generic Tadalafil | 15% | 13% | 9% | 0% | 1‑2days |
Cost is often the deciding factor. Below are average pharmacy prices for a single tablet, based on data from major UK chains and online dispensaries.
| Medication | Price (GBP) | Typical Pack Size | Cost per Tablet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erectafil (20mg) | £34.99 | 10‑tablet pack | £3.50 |
| Cialis (20mg) | £49.99 | 10‑tablet pack | £5.00 |
| Viagra (100mg) | £49.50 | 10‑tablet pack | £4.95 |
| Levitra (20mg) | £44.00 | 10‑tablet pack | £4.40 |
| Stendra (100mg) | £55.00 | 10‑tablet pack | £5.50 |
| Generic Tadalafil (20mg) | £28.00 | 10‑tablet pack | £2.80 |
Here’s a quick decision‑tree you can run through in a minute:
Always factor in personal health conditions-especially heart disease or low blood pressure-as PDE5 inhibitors can interact with nitrates.
All the medications compared here share some common precautions:
Consult a GP or sexual‑health specialist before starting any new ED medication, especially if you have a history of cardiovascular disease.
A single 20mg tablet of Erectafil can provide erectile support for up to 36hours, though peak effectiveness usually occurs between 2 and 6hours after ingestion.
Yes. Tadalafil‑based products, including Erectafil, are prescription‑only in the UK. Online tele‑health services can provide a quick GP consult if you prefer a digital route.
Moderate alcohol (1‑2 units) usually doesn’t interfere, but heavy drinking can lower blood pressure and reduce the drug’s effectiveness. It also raises the risk of dizziness.
Pharmacologically they’re identical. The main differences lie in price, packaging, and sometimes the excipients used. Some users prefer branded Erectafil for perceived consistency, while others pick generic for cost savings.
Tadalafil’s absorption isn’t dramatically affected by food, but a heavy, high‑fat meal can delay onset by up to an hour. For quickest effect, take it with a light meal or water.
Erectafil gives you the long‑acting benefits of tadalafil without the premium price tag of Cialis, making it a solid middle ground between generic options and high‑cost brand names. If you value a 24‑plus‑hour window and are comfortable with a modest prescription cost, Erectafil is worth a trial. For those who need faster onset, Stendra or Viagra may be better, while budget‑conscious users can stick with generic tadalafil. Always discuss with your healthcare provider to ensure safe use, especially if you have heart or blood‑pressure concerns.
Paul Griffin
October 8, 2025 AT 14:06Erectafil offers a compelling balance between duration and cost, making it a viable option for many patients. The 36‑hour window gives couples flexibility without the premium price of brand‑name Cialis. When counseling someone, I emphasize the importance of discussing any cardiovascular conditions with a physician before initiating therapy. Additionally, taking the tablet with a light meal can help mitigate the slight delay in onset caused by high‑fat foods. Remember, adherence to prescribed dosage is key to both efficacy and safety.