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Cialis
From: £37.99
Tadalafil is the longest-acting ED treatment available, remaining effective for up to 36 hours. Available on-demand (10mg/20mg) or as a daily low dose (2.5mg/5mg) for fully spontaneous sexual activity. Known as ‘the weekend tablet’ for its unmatched flexibility.
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Additional information
| Quantity | 16, 28, 32, 4, 56, 8, 84 |
|---|---|
| Strength | 10mg, 20mg, 5mg |
Overview
Content Written by:
Hanifa Tai
Hanifa Tai
Role: Pharmacist & Content Writer
GPhC Number: 2074961
Content Published: 01/04/2026
Next Review: 01/04/2027
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Description
What Is Tadalafil?
Tadalafil is a prescription PDE5 inhibitor and the active ingredient in the brand Cialis. It is used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men. Its primary distinction is its long duration of action — after a single on-demand dose, it can remain effective for up to 36 hours, earning its nickname ‘the weekend tablet’. It is available in two main forms: on-demand (10mg or 20mg) and daily low-dose (2.5mg or 5mg).
How Does It Work?
During sexual stimulation, nitric oxide is released in penile tissue, triggering production of cyclic GMP. This relaxes smooth muscle and widens blood vessels, allowing blood to flow in and create firmness. Tadalafil temporarily blocks the PDE5 enzyme that breaks down cyclic GMP, allowing it to remain active for longer. Tadalafil has a longer half-life than other PDE5 inhibitors, which explains its extended duration. Sexual stimulation is still required.
On-Demand vs Daily Tadalafil
On-demand Tadalafil (10mg or 20mg): taken when needed, 30 minutes to 2 hours before activity, effective for up to 36 hours. Daily Tadalafil (2.5mg or 5mg): taken at the same time every day to maintain a steady level in the bloodstream — no need to time a tablet around sexual activity. Daily Tadalafil is also licensed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), where it can improve urinary symptoms.
Tadalafil vs Sildenafil
Both are highly effective PDE5 inhibitors. The key difference is duration: Sildenafil generally works for 4–6 hours, while Tadalafil can remain effective for up to 36 hours. Tadalafil is also less affected by food. It uniquely offers a daily low-dose option. Choice between them often depends on lifestyle preference.
FAQ
Q: How long does Tadalafil last?
A: On-demand Tadalafil can remain effective for up to 36 hours. This does not mean an erection lasts that long — it means the body is more responsive to stimulation during that window.
Q: When should I take Tadalafil?
A: On-demand: at least 30 minutes before activity, up to 2 hours. Daily: the same time every day. Daily dosing requires several days of continuous use before full effect is established.
Q: Can Tadalafil be taken with food?
A: Yes — unlike Sildenafil, Tadalafil is not significantly affected by food. It can be taken with or without meals.
Q: Is daily Tadalafil better than on-demand?
A: For men who have regular sexual activity or experience anxiety around timed dosing, daily Tadalafil provides continuous coverage without planning. On-demand suits men who prefer a tablet only when needed. Your pharmacist will advise on the most suitable option.
Q: Does Tadalafil help with prostate symptoms?
A: Yes. Daily Tadalafil 5mg is also licensed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and can improve urinary symptoms such as frequency and weak stream alongside ED treatment.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
These are usually mild and resolve as the medicine leaves the body:
- Headache
- Facial flushing
- Nasal congestion
- Indigestion
- Muscle aches
- Back pain (more commonly reported than with some other PDE5 inhibitors — usually resolves within 24–48 hours)
Rare but Serious Side Effects — Seek Urgent Medical Attention
- Chest pain — seek urgent medical help
- Sudden loss of vision — seek urgent medical help
- Sudden hearing loss — seek urgent medical help
- Erection lasting longer than 4 hours (priapism) — seek urgent medical help
Do Not Take If You:
- Use nitrate medication or recreational nitrates (‘poppers’)
- Have been advised to avoid sexual activity due to heart disease
- Have severe low blood pressure
- Have recently had a heart attack or stroke
- Have certain rare inherited eye disorders
Cardiovascular Note: Sexual activity places moderate physical strain on the cardiovascular system. If you can climb two flights of stairs without chest pain or severe breathlessness, sexual activity is generally considered safe. Men with unstable heart disease should be assessed before treatment.
