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What is Tadalafil?

Tadalafil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. It primarily treats erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in certain circumstances. As a selective phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, Tadalafil helps improve blood flow to the penile tissue, thus enabling a man to achieve and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation. Tadalafil has revolutionised the treatment of ED since its introduction in the early 2000s explains Dr. Graham Jackson, a leading cardiologist and sexual health expert. One of the distinctive features of Tadalafil is its long-lasting effect, as it remains active in the body for up to 36 hours, earning it the nickname "the weekend pill."

What are the benefits of Tadalafil?

Numerous benefits are associated with Tadalafil use. Firstly, it effectively treats erectile dysfunction, helping men regain their sexual confidence and improve their overall quality of life. A study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that men who took Tadalafil experienced a significant improvement in their erectile function source. Furthermore, Tadalafil has been shown to relieve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, including frequent urination, weak urine flow, and urgency. This dual-action effect makes it a versatile medication for men with both conditions.

How does Tadalafil work?

Tadalafil inhibits the enzyme PDE5, which breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). The presence of cGMP in the smooth muscle cells lining the blood vessels of the penis allows for relaxation and increased blood flow. During sexual stimulation, nitric oxide is released, leading to the production of cGMP. Tadalafil's inhibition of PDE5 results in higher levels of cGMP, facilitating better blood flow and enabling an erection. A detailed explanation of this mechanism is found in a review by Dr. K. Hatzimouratidis and colleagues source.

Does Tadalafil help you last longer?

Tadalafil has not been explicitly proven to help men last longer during sexual intercourse. However, it assists in maintaining an erection, which may indirectly contribute to prolonged sexual encounters. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine revealed that men who took Tadalafil for erectile dysfunction experienced increased confidence and satisfaction with sexual activity.

How effective is Tadalafil as an erectile dysfunction medication?

Tadalafil is highly effective in treating erectile dysfunction, with 81% of users reporting its effectiveness (compared to a placebo) in helping to treat erectile dysfunction, according to a meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice. In addition, this medication has been proven effective for men with varying degrees of ED and those with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

How long does Tadalafil last?

Tadalafil lasts for up to 36 hours, making it one of the longest-lasting erectile dysfunction medications. One of the primary advantages of Tadalafil is its long-lasting effect. The medication has a half-life of approximately 17.5 hours, which means it remains active in the body for up to 36 hours. This extended duration of action allows men to engage in sexual activity with more spontaneity and without the need for precise timing. 

Dosages of Tadalafil

Tadalafil is available in various dosages to cater to the different needs of men seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction. The most common dosages are 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. 

Tadalafil 2.5mg explained (Tadalafil Daily):

Tadalafil 2.5mg (Tadalafil Daily) is the lowest available dosage, typically prescribed as a daily dose for men who prefer the convenience of not having to time their medication intake with sexual activity. This low dose minimises the risk of side effects while maintaining its effectiveness in treating ED and BPH.

Is Tadalafil 2.5mg effective?

Although Tadalafil 2.5mg is the lowest dosage, it still effectively treats erectile dysfunction for some men. Tadalafil 2.5mg significantly improved erectile function in men with ED, according to a study published in the National Library of Medicine.

Tadalafil 5mg explained:

Tadalafil 5mg is another daily dose option, typically prescribed for men who require a slightly higher dosage to achieve optimal results.

Is Tadalafil 5mg effective?

Tadalafil 5mg has been shown to be effective in treating erectile dysfunction. A study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research demonstrated that Tadalafil 5mg daily significantly improved erectile function.

Tadalafil 10mg explained:

Tadalafil 10mg is a higher dosage, typically prescribed for men who plan to engage in sexual activity less frequently or on an as-needed basis. It is recommended to take this dose approximately 30 minutes before anticipated sexual activity.

How long does Tadalafil 10mg last?

The duration of Tadalafil 10mg is similar to the 20mg dosage, with its effects lasting up to 36 hours. This extended timeframe allows men to engage in sexual activity with more spontaneity.

Tadalafil 20mg explained:

Tadalafil 20mg is the highest available dosage for men requiring a stronger dose to achieve satisfactory results. Like the 10mg dosage, it is recommended to take this dose approximately 30 minutes before anticipated sexual activity.

How long does Tadalafil 20mg last?

The effects of Tadalafil 20mg lasts up to 36 hours, offering a prolonged window for men to engage in sexual activity without the need for precise timing. This duration of action contributes to the medication's popularity among men seeking a long-lasting and flexible treatment option for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia.

What do Tadalafil pills look like?

Tadalafil pills are generally almond-shaped and come in various colours, depending on the manufacturer and dosage. The most common colours are yellow and orange. In addition, each tablet is usually marked with its dosage strength (e.g., 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, or 20mg) to help patients distinguish between different dosages.

Can I take Tadalafil tablets if I am taking other medication?

Before taking Tadalafil, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to discuss the patient's medical history and any other medications the patient is taking. This is because some medicines interact with Tadalafil and lead to adverse effects. Notably, Tadalafil must not be taken with nitrates or nitric oxide donors, as this combination causes a significant drop in blood pressure.

Do Tadalafil tablets lower blood pressure?

Tadalafil causes a decrease in blood pressure due to its vasodilatory effects. In most cases, this reduction in blood pressure is not clinically significant. However, caution must be exercised if the patient is taking medications that lower blood pressure, such as alpha-blockers or nitrates, as the combined effect may cause a significant drop in blood pressure that leads to dizziness or fainting. Make sure to include any existing medications you are taking to your prescriber and on the Welzo consultation to ensure correct evaluations between current medications and tadalafil.

Is Tadalafil legal?

Tadalafil is a legal medication prescribed by a healthcare professional for erectile dysfunction or benign prostatic hyperplasia. Therefore, it is essential to obtain Tadalafil through a reputable source, such as a registered pharmacy or a doctor, to ensure that the medication is genuine and safe to use.

Does Tadalafil work after ejaculation?

Tadalafil's primary function is to improve blood flow to the penile tissue, helping men achieve and maintain an erection. After ejaculation, it is common for the erection to subside. However, due to the long-lasting effects of Tadalafil (up to 36 hours), some men are able to achieve another erection more quickly than without the medication, depending on individual refractory times and sexual stimulation.

Can women take Tadalafil tablets?

Tadalafil is not approved for use in women. It has not been extensively studied for its effects on female sexual function. Some studies have explored the potential use of Tadalafil for treating female sexual arousal disorder, but the results have been inconclusive.

Is Tadalafil available over the counter in the UK?

In the UK, Tadalafil is not available over the counter. It is a prescription-only medication, meaning a healthcare professional must assess the suitability for the treatment before prescribing it. This assessment usually involves discussing medical history, current medications, and the severity of erectile dysfunction symptoms.

What if Tadalafil is not working for me?

If Tadalafil is not producing the desired results, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend adjusting the dosage, trying a different PDE5 inhibitor (such as sildenafil or vardenafil), or exploring alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as vacuum erection devices, penile injections, or psychotherapy. 

Is Tadalafil safe?

Tadalafil is considered safe for most men when prescribed by a healthcare professional and taken as directed. As with any medication, some side effects may occur, including headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and nasal congestion. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if patients experience severe or persistent side effects, such as chest pain, an erection lasting longer than four hours, or sudden vision or hearing loss, in that case, the patient must seek immediate medical attention.

Tadalafil and alcohol

Ideally, Tadalafil must not be taken with alcohol as a rule of thumb. However, it is generally safe to consume moderate amounts of alcohol while taking Tadalafil. However, excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of side effects, such as dizziness, headache, and low blood pressure. Additionally, alcohol may impair the ability to achieve an erection, counteracting the effects of Tadalafil. Therefore, it is advisable to limit alcohol intake while using this medication.

Is Tadalafil available on the NHS?

Tadalafil is available on the NHS to treat erectile dysfunction under specific circumstances. It is usually prescribed when other treatments, such as sildenafil, have not been effective or are not suitable due to medical reasons. The availability of Tadalafil on the NHS depends on local prescribing guidelines. 

Who can use Tadalafil?

Tadalafil is typically prescribed for adult men who are experiencing erectile dysfunction or benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, not all men are suitable candidates for Tadalafil treatment. It is not recommended for those who have had a recent heart attack or stroke, suffer from uncontrolled high or low blood pressure, or have a history of certain eye conditions, such as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). A healthcare professional will assess the suitability for Tadalafil based on the medical history and any current medications being taken.