Key facts
- Its effects can last up to 36 hours.
- It can be taken before sex or as a daily tablet, as your prescriber decides.
- Not usually prescribed with nitrates.
- Avoid grapefruit juice, and be careful with alcohol.
What it is
Tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor mainly used to treat erection problems. It's also used for an enlarged prostate and a lung condition called pulmonary hypertension. Cialis is one brand.
How it's taken
There are two ways of taking tadalafil for erection problems:
- When needed, as a single tablet before sex
- Every day, as a lower-strength tablet
Its effects can last up to 36 hours. Your prescriber decides which approach and strength suit you.
Common side effects
Common side effects include indigestion, muscle aches, back pain, headache and a stuffy nose.
Things to avoid
- It's not usually prescribed together with nitrates.
- Avoid grapefruit juice.
- Alcohol can make dizziness and low blood pressure more likely.
- Taking an extra dose can be dangerous. If you take more than prescribed, contact NHS 111.
Get urgent help if
Get urgent help for an erection lasting more than 3 to 4 hours, chest pain, heart palpitations, sudden problems with your hearing or sight, or signs of a serious allergic reaction. See urgent warning signs.