What Is Tadalafil, How Does It Work and Where Can You Buy It?

Tadalafil is a well-known medicine used mainly to treat erectile dysfunction. It is also prescribed for symptoms of an enlarged prostate and, in different doses, for pulmonary arterial hypertension. This article explains how tadalafil works, how long it lasts, the main precautions and where it can be obtained in the UK.

What is tadalafil?

Tadalafil belongs to a group of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors. Many people know it by the brand name Cialis, although generic versions are also available.

For erectile dysfunction, tadalafil helps increase blood flow to the penis when a man is sexually aroused. It may also be prescribed in a low daily dose to improve urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic enlargement.

For pulmonary arterial hypertension, tadalafil is used under specialist supervision and with a different treatment plan. Do not switch between products or doses intended for different conditions.

In summary, tadalafil may be prescribed for:

erectile dysfunction in adult men
urinary symptoms associated with benign prostatic enlargement
pulmonary arterial hypertension in adults.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is the persistent or recurring difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sex. The causes may be:

psychological, including stress, trauma, low mood or performance anxiety
physical, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hormonal problems, nerve damage or the effects of medication.

ED becomes more common with age, but younger men can experience it too. In many cases it can be treated successfully. One option is a medicine containing tadalafil.

How tadalafil works in the body

Tadalafil blocks the PDE5 enzyme, allowing levels of cGMP to remain higher in the erectile tissue. This relaxes smooth muscle and helps more blood flow into the penis during sexual stimulation.

PDE5 is also present in the blood vessels of the lungs, which is why tadalafil can be used in specialist treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Tadalafil does not cause an automatic erection. Sexual stimulation is still required. It also does not increase libido by itself.

Warnings and contraindications

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking tadalafil, particularly if you have severe liver or kidney problems, a penile deformity, sickle-cell anaemia, leukaemia, multiple myeloma, an inherited eye condition or significant heart disease.

If tadalafil is being considered for urinary symptoms, a clinician may need to check for other causes, including prostate cancer, because some symptoms overlap with benign prostatic enlargement.

Tadalafil may interact with other medicines, including nitrates, other PDE5 inhibitors, alpha-blockers, riociguat, bosentan, ritonavir, rifampicin, erythromycin, clarithromycin, ketoconazole and itraconazole.

Always provide a complete list of prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies during a medical assessment.

Tadalafil for erectile dysfunction or urinary symptoms is intended for adult men. It is not suitable for children or adolescents under 18.

Possible side effects

Many men experience no side effects or only mild ones. Common effects include headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, back pain and muscle aches.

Less common or more serious reactions may include dizziness, fainting, chest pain, a fast heartbeat, low blood pressure, blood in the urine, severe stomach symptoms, breathing difficulty, rash, blurred vision or an erection lasting longer than four hours. Seek urgent medical help for chest pain, sudden loss of vision or hearing, a severe allergic reaction or a prolonged erection.

Do not drive, cycle or operate machinery if tadalafil makes you dizzy or affects your sight.

Lifestyle changes can support erectile function and general health:

stop smoking
avoid grapefruit if the product leaflet or pharmacist advises it
limit alcohol
eat a balanced diet
exercise regularly.

Medicines that contain tadalafil

The best-known tadalafil medicine is Cialis. Other products include:

Products used for pulmonary arterial hypertension may include Adcirca and other specialist tadalafil brands. Their instructions are not interchangeable with erectile dysfunction products.

Recommended tadalafil dose

For on-demand treatment of erectile dysfunction, tadalafil is commonly taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. In the UK, 10mg is often used as a starting dose and may be adjusted to 20mg or reduced according to effectiveness and side effects. The medicine is also available as 2.5mg or 5mg daily treatment for selected patients.

Do not take more than the prescribed or recommended amount. If you take too much and feel unwell, contact a healthcare professional or NHS 111.

How long does tadalafil last?

Tadalafil is taken by mouth and reaches its highest blood concentration after roughly two hours. It is processed mainly by the liver and eliminated gradually from the body.

Its half-life is around 17.5 hours, considerably longer than sildenafil. This does not mean an erection lasts that long. Instead, tadalafil can make it easier to respond to sexual stimulation for up to 36 hours after a dose, although the effect varies between individuals.

Where can you buy tadalafil?

The price depends on the brand, strength and pack size. Branded Cialis is normally more expensive than generic tadalafil containing the same active ingredient.

In the UK, tadalafil is a prescription medicine. It can be obtained from a high-street or online pharmacy after an appropriate medical assessment. Online ordering can offer privacy, competitive pricing and fast delivery, but choose a supplier with clear contact details, secure payment and transparent product information.