Description
What is tadalafil (Cialis) and what is it used for?
Tadalafil is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. ED means finding it difficult to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex.
Tadalafil helps improve blood flow to the penis when you are sexually aroused. It supports a natural response to stimulation — it will not cause an erection on its own.
How tadalafil works
Tadalafil relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This can make it easier to achieve and maintain an erection.
What makes tadalafil different?
Tadalafil is often described as a “longer-acting” ED option. Many men can respond to sexual stimulation for a longer period after taking a dose, compared with some other ED tablets.
How to take tadalafil for erectile dysfunction
- For “as needed” use, tadalafil is typically taken at least 30 minutes before sex.
- Swallow the tablet with water. Avoid grapefruit juice, which may affect how the medicine is processed.
- Do not take more than 1 dose in 24 hours, unless your clinician has advised a daily regimen.
- Alcohol can reduce performance and may increase side effects, so keep intake moderate.
How long does tadalafil last?
The effects of tadalafil can last for up to 36 hours for many men. This does not mean a constant erection — it means you may be able to achieve an erection more easily during this time when sexually stimulated.
Daily tadalafil (once-a-day option)
Some men prefer a low daily dose. This can provide more spontaneity and may be suitable if you have ED more frequently. Your clinician will advise if a daily option is appropriate for you.
Important safety information
- Do not take tadalafil if you use nitrate medicines for chest pain (angina) or recreational “poppers” — combining these can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- Get urgent medical help if you experience chest pain, sudden loss of vision or hearing, or an erection lasting longer than 4 hours.
- Tell your clinician if you take medicines for blood pressure or prostate symptoms (including alpha-blockers), as dose adjustments or extra checks may be needed.
- If ED is new, worsening, or you have symptoms during exertion (e.g., chest tightness, breathlessness), seek medical advice, as ED can sometimes be linked to underlying health conditions.
Side effects of tadalafil
Most men tolerate tadalafil well, but side effects can occur.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Facial flushing (feeling warm/red)
- Indigestion or reflux
- Blocked or runny nose
- Back pain or muscle aches
- Dizziness
If side effects are severe, persistent, or worrying, stop use and seek medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is tadalafil the same as Cialis?
Cialis is a brand name. Tadalafil is the active ingredient. Both work in the same way; the key differences are brand, packaging, and price.
Will tadalafil work without sexual stimulation?
No. Tadalafil supports the physical process involved in getting an erection, but sexual arousal is still needed.
Can I take tadalafil every day?
Some people are prescribed a low daily dose. This is not suitable for everyone, so it should be decided with a clinician after reviewing your medical history and other medicines.
What if tadalafil doesn’t work for me?
If it hasn’t helped after several attempts on different occasions, a different dose or alternative ED treatment may be more suitable. A clinician can advise on the safest option.
Can I take tadalafil with other ED medicines?
Do not combine tadalafil with other ED treatments unless a prescriber specifically advises it.
Always read the patient information leaflet before use.
Side Effects
Cialis Side Effects
As with all medicines, Cialis can cause side effects in some men, although many people take it without experiencing any problems. Common side effects occur in approximately 1 in 10 to 1 in 100 users.
Commonly reported side effects include:
Headache
Facial flushing
Indigestion
Compared with some other treatments for erectile dysfunction, Cialis is often associated with fewer or milder side effects. Many men who experience symptoms such as nasal congestion, stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhoea with other ED medications find that these effects are less common when using Cialis.
If side effects are persistent, troublesome, or worsen, you should seek advice from a pharmacist or healthcare professional.
Information Leaflet
Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7431.pdf
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7430.pdf
