Description
Quick Summary
- Brand name tadalafil (PDE5 inhibitor) used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).
- Works with sexual stimulation (does not increase libido).
- On-demand dosing is commonly 10mg taken at least 30 minutes before sex; effects may last up to 36 hours.
- Daily dosing (2.5-5mg) may be prescribed for frequent sexual activity (clinician-led).
- Supplied following an online consultation and a UK prescriber suitability review; discreet delivery.
What is Cialis (Tadalafil)?
Cialis is a brand-name medicine that contains tadalafil. Tadalafil is a phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow during sexual stimulation.
How Cialis Works
Mechanism of action
Cialis blocks the PDE5 enzyme in penile tissue, helping blood vessels relax and improving blood flow when you are sexually aroused. It will not cause an automatic erection without stimulation.
How long it lasts
- Many men can get an erection any time from around 30 minutes to 36 hours after taking tadalafil (individual response varies).
- This does not mean an erection lasts 36 hours; it means you may have a longer window where erections are easier to achieve when aroused.
Cialis vs Generic Tadalafil vs Cialis Together (UK)
| Option | What it is | How it is usually supplied in the UK |
| Cialis (brand) | Branded tadalafil tablets (e.g., 10mg/20mg on-demand; 2.5mg/5mg daily) | Typically supplied on prescription after clinical assessment. |
| Generic tadalafil | Same active ingredient (tadalafil) made by other manufacturers | Usually prescription-only; supplied after assessment. |
| Cialis Together 10mg | Pharmacy medicine (P) tadalafil 10mg for ED | May be supplied from a pharmacy without a prescription after a pharmacist consultation; other tadalafil products still require prescription. |
Dosage & How to Take Cialis
On-demand dosing (commonly 10mg)
- Take 1 tablet at least 30 minutes before sexual activity, as prescribed.
- Do not take more than 1 dose in 24 hours.
- If needed, a clinician may adjust the dose (e.g., 5mg or 20mg) based on response and tolerability.
Daily dosing (2.5mg to 5mg)
- If prescribed for frequent use, take 1 tablet once daily at the same time each day.
- Do not combine daily dosing with on-demand dosing unless a prescriber specifically tells you to.
Food, alcohol, and lifestyle
- Cialis can be taken with or without food; very heavy or high-fat meals may delay the onset for some people.
- Limit alcohol to reduce dizziness and improve response.
- Sleep, stress reduction, exercise, and addressing underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, blood pressure) support erectile function.
Who Can Use Cialis (Suitability)
- Adult men (18+) with erectile dysfunction symptoms.
- Men who prefer a longer-lasting ED option (up to 36 hours window).
- Men who have been clinically assessed as suitable by a UK prescriber/pharmacist.
Who Should NOT Take Cialis
- If you take nitrates for chest pain (e.g., glyceryl trinitrate/GTN) or riociguat (dangerous blood pressure drop).
- If you have been advised to avoid sexual activity due to heart problems.
- Recent heart attack or stroke, unstable angina, severe heart failure, very low or unstable blood pressure (needs clinician review).
- Severe liver disease (and certain severe kidney problems) unless a clinician advises.
- Allergy to tadalafil or tablet ingredients.
Important Interactions
- Nitrates and ‘poppers’ (amyl nitrite): do not combine with tadalafil.
- Alpha-blockers (prostate/BP): may require dose adjustment and spacing to avoid dizziness/fainting.
- Some antifungals, antibiotics, and HIV medicines can increase tadalafil levels (tell the clinician everything you take).
- Do not combine with other ED medicines (e.g., sildenafil) unless a prescriber provides a plan.
Side Effects
Common
- Headache
- Flushing
- Indigestion
- Blocked nose
- Back pain or muscle aches
Stop and seek urgent medical help if you get
- Chest pain
- Sudden vision or hearing loss
- Severe allergic reaction (swelling, wheeze, widespread rash)
- An erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism)
Online Consultation & Discreet Delivery (UK)
- Complete an online medical assessment (health history + current medicines).
- A UK-registered prescriber reviews suitability and issues a prescription if appropriate.
- The order is dispensed by a regulated UK pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging.
FAQs
How fast does Cialis start working?
Usually from around 30 minutes, but timing varies between individuals.
How long does Cialis last?
Effects may last up to around 36 hours. You still need sexual stimulation for it to work.
Can I take Cialis every day?
Daily dosing (2.5-5mg) is an option for frequent use, but only if prescribed.
Can I drink alcohol with Cialis?
Limit alcohol. Excess drinking can reduce effectiveness and increase dizziness.
Can I take Cialis with nitrates or riociguat?
No. Combining tadalafil with nitrates or riociguat can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Patient Information Leaflet
This page is a summary and does not replace the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL). Always follow the directions supplied with your medicine and seek medical advice if unsure.
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