SEXUAL HEALTH
Tadalafil
for erectile dysfunction.
Tadalafil helps support erectile function and is the active ingredient in Cialis. Compare daily and as-needed regimens, understand the response window and read the important interaction warnings.
Tadalafil vs. sildenafil: what’s different?
Tadalafil and sildenafil are different medicines. Cialis labeling includes both daily and as-needed regimens; the appropriate instructions depend on the prescribed product. Do not combine ED medicines without prescriber direction.
Explore sildenafil treatment information.
Sources: DailyMed Cialis prescribing information · DailyMed Viagra prescribing information.
What is tadalafil?
Tadalafil is a prescription PDE5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction. Your clinician determines whether it is appropriate and explains the treatment schedule for the prescribed product. Cialis is a brand name; the dispensed product must be confirmed.
Do not combine tadalafil with sildenafil or other erectile dysfunction medicines unless specifically directed by your prescriber. Your prescription determines the dose and schedule.
What tadalafil does for erectile dysfunction
Tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor that helps increase blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. It supports erectile function rather than directly increasing libido. It does not provide protection against pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections.
The ingredient is used in products with different indications, including erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia and pulmonary arterial hypertension. The relevant directions and risks must be checked for the exact product and prescribed use.
Daily and as-needed treatment are different regimens
Cialis labeling includes both daily and as-needed regimens for erectile dysfunction. These schedules use product-specific instructions and should not be mixed or switched independently. A daily schedule is not the same as taking repeated as-needed doses.
Cialis studies demonstrated improved erectile function for up to 36 hours after an as-needed dose. That describes a period in which a response may be supported, not a continuous erection or a guaranteed result. Sexual stimulation is still needed.
Why interaction history matters
Tadalafil must not be combined with nitrates or riociguat. Alpha blockers, blood pressure medicines and substantial alcohol use can also increase the risk of low blood pressure. Its longer effect means interaction questions remain relevant beyond the moment a tablet is taken.
Do not add sildenafil or another ED medicine without specific prescriber direction. Urgent symptoms include an erection lasting more than four hours and sudden vision or hearing loss. Emergency clinicians should be told when tadalafil was last taken.
What to discuss before treatment.
Do not use tadalafil with nitrates, recreational nitrites such as poppers, or riociguat. These combinations can dangerously lower blood pressure. Seek urgent care for an erection lasting more than four hours or sudden vision or hearing loss. Discuss cardiovascular conditions and all medicines before treatment.
This overview does not include every risk, contraindication or interaction. Read the full information for the exact product and discuss questions with your clinician.
Continue exploring sexual health.
Frequently asked questions
What is tadalafil used for in sexual-health care?
Tadalafil is a prescription option for erectile dysfunction and is the active ingredient in Cialis. A clinician decides whether it is appropriate and specifies the dose and schedule.
Can tadalafil be combined with sildenafil?
Do not combine erectile dysfunction medicines unless your prescriber specifically directs you to. Tell your clinician about every prescription, over-the-counter medicine and supplement you use.
What should I discuss before taking tadalafil?
Discuss heart health, blood pressure and all medicines. Tadalafil must not be used with nitrates or riociguat. An erection lasting over four hours or sudden vision or hearing loss needs urgent medical attention.
Does up to 36 hours mean a continuous erection?
No. It refers to the period over which erectile function may be supported after an as-needed Cialis dose. Sexual stimulation is still needed.
Can daily and as-needed tadalafil schedules be mixed?
Do not combine or switch schedules independently. Follow the instructions for the exact prescribed product.
Is tadalafil a treatment for low sexual desire?
Tadalafil supports erectile function; it does not increase sexual desire or cure every cause of sexual difficulty.