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Tadalafil

Tadalafil

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  • ✔️ Treats erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis
  • ✔️ Effects last up to 36 hours — longer than any comparable ED tablet
  • ✔️ Available as daily 5mg dose for spontaneous, unplanned intimacy
  • ✔️ Also licensed to relieve urinary symptoms caused by enlarged prostate
  • ✔️ Works within 30–60 minutes when taken as directed

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What Are Tadalafil Tablets and How Do They Help?

 

Erectile dysfunction affects millions of men in the UK, and it can have a real impact on confidence, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Tadalafil tablets are one of the most widely prescribed treatments for this condition, offering a clinically proven way to achieve and maintain an erection when you need it. Available from Cured Pharmacy from just £9.99, this medicine gives you a discreet, convenient option without compromising on clinical quality. If you're exploring your options for men's health, you can also browse our men's health range for further support.

Tadalafil is the active ingredient in the branded medicine Cialis, but it is now widely available as a generic. It belongs to a class of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It is licensed in the UK for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men, and in some cases for the treatment of symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is a prescription-only medicine in the UK, meaning a valid prescription or approved online consultation is required before it can be dispensed.

 

How Does Tadalafil Work in the Body?

 

Understanding how this medicine works can help you feel more confident about using it. The mechanism is straightforward, though the science behind it is quite elegant.

  • Sexual stimulation triggers the release of nitric oxide in the erectile tissue of the penis.
  • Nitric oxide activates an enzyme that produces cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
  • cGMP relaxes smooth muscle and widens blood vessels, allowing increased blood flow into the penis.
  • Tadalafil inhibits PDE5, the enzyme that breaks down cGMP — so the effect is prolonged and an erection can be achieved and maintained.
  • Crucially, sexual stimulation is still required. Tadalafil does not cause an automatic erection.

Because tadalafil has a half-life of around 17.5 hours, its effects can last up to 36 hours — considerably longer than other PDE5 inhibitors. This gives you more flexibility around timing, which many men find reduces the pressure associated with ED.

 

Who Is Tadalafil Suitable For?

 

Tadalafil is suitable for adult men who experience difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity. It is not intended for use in women or anyone under 18 years of age. Before starting treatment, a healthcare professional will assess your suitability based on your medical history and any medicines you currently take.

  • Adult men with erectile dysfunction of any cause — physical, psychological, or mixed
  • Men who want a longer window of opportunity compared to shorter-acting ED treatments
  • Men who prefer a daily low-dose regimen for spontaneous sexual activity
  • Men with BPH-related lower urinary tract symptoms, where tadalafil 5mg daily is licensed

 

How Does Tadalafil Compare to Sildenafil?

 

Feature Tadalafil Sildenafil
Duration of action Up to 36 hours 4–6 hours
Onset of action 30–60 minutes 30–60 minutes
Daily dosing option Yes (2.5mg or 5mg) No
Food interaction Minimal — can be taken with food High-fat meals may delay absorption

 

How Should You Store Tadalafil and Is It Right for You?

 

Tadalafil tablets should be stored below 30°C in their original packaging, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep them out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use them after the expiry date printed on the pack. If you're unsure whether this medicine is appropriate for your situation, speak to your pharmacist or GP before ordering. You can also explore our condoms and sexual health collection for complementary products that support a healthy sex life.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Tadalafil specifications
Treatment category Erectile dysfunction / Benign prostatic hyperplasia
Active ingredient Tadalafil
Mechanism of action PDE5 inhibitor — increases blood flow to the penis
Strengths 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg
Pack sizes 4, 8, 12, 28 tablets (varies by strength)
UK classification Prescription Only Medicine (POM)
Drug class Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral
Suitable for Adult men aged 18 and over
Effective Within 30–60 minutes; effects last up to 36 hours

Specifications of Tadalafil

 

What Is Tadalafil and What Is It Used For?

 

Tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction in adult men. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, helping you achieve and maintain an erection. It is also licensed at a 5mg daily dose for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia. In some cases, it may be prescribed for both conditions simultaneously. It is not a cure for ED — it treats the symptoms when taken as directed.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Tadalafil?

 

Before taking this medicine, it is essential to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all your current medicines and medical conditions. There are several situations where tadalafil must not be used.

Do not take tadalafil if you:

  • Are taking nitrates in any form (e.g. glyceryl trinitrate for chest pain) — the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure
  • Are taking riociguat (used for pulmonary hypertension)
  • Have severe liver disease or severe kidney disease requiring dialysis
  • Have had a recent stroke, heart attack, or have unstable angina
  • Have very low blood pressure (hypotension) or uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Have ever experienced loss of vision due to non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION)
  • Are allergic to tadalafil or any of the tablet's other ingredients

Drug interactions to be aware of:

  • Alpha-blockers (e.g. tamsulosin, doxazosin) — may cause blood pressure to drop significantly
  • Antihypertensive medicines — additive blood pressure-lowering effect
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, ritonavir — may increase tadalafil blood levels
  • CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampicin — may reduce tadalafil effectiveness
  • Alcohol — increases risk of dizziness and low blood pressure

 

How Should You Use Tadalafil?

 

Always use tadalafil exactly as your prescriber has told you. Do not take more than the prescribed dose, and never take it more than once in 24 hours. The tablet can be taken with or without food, which is one advantage over some other ED treatments.

  1. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
  2. Take it approximately 30 minutes before anticipated sexual activity (for on-demand dosing).
  3. Sexual stimulation is required for the medicine to work — it will not produce an erection on its own.
  4. If you are on a daily dosing regimen, take it at the same time each day regardless of planned sexual activity.
  5. Do not crush or split the tablet unless your prescriber has specifically advised this.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Erectile dysfunction (on-demand) Adult men (18+) 10mg (may adjust to 5mg or 20mg) As needed, max once daily
Erectile dysfunction (daily) Adult men (18+) 2.5mg or 5mg Once daily
BPH symptoms Adult men (18+) 5mg Once daily

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Tadalafil?

 

Like all medicines, tadalafil can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medicine. If you experience any side effect that concerns you, stop taking the medicine and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You might also find it helpful to explore our pain relief range if you experience mild headaches as a side effect.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Headache
  • Flushing (feeling of warmth or redness in the face)
  • Indigestion or stomach discomfort
  • Back pain
  • Nasal congestion
  • Muscle aches

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Swelling of the eyelids
  • Eye pain or redness
  • Prolonged erection (priapism) — seek immediate medical attention if an erection lasts more than 4 hours
  • Sudden decrease or loss of vision or hearing — stop taking tadalafil and seek urgent medical help

 

How Should You Store Tadalafil?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the medicine's effectiveness and keeps it safe. Follow these instructions carefully. If you're managing multiple medicines at home, our vitamins and supplements section also includes useful health support products with clear storage guidance.

  • Store below 30°C
  • Keep in the original blister pack or container to protect from moisture
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink — humidity can degrade the tablets
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy tadalafil online in the UK?

You can buy tadalafil online in the UK through a GPhC-registered online pharmacy such as Cured Pharmacy, following a valid prescription or approved online consultation. Always check that the pharmacy displays the EU common logo, which confirms it is legally registered to sell medicines online. Buying from unregistered sources carries serious health risks, as counterfeit ED medicines are widely reported.

How does tadalafil work in the body?

Tadalafil inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which normally breaks down a chemical called cGMP in the penis. By blocking PDE5, tadalafil allows cGMP to accumulate, relaxing smooth muscle and increasing blood flow during sexual stimulation. This process only occurs when you are sexually aroused — the medicine does not produce an erection automatically.

How long does tadalafil last compared to other ED treatments?

Tadalafil has a half-life of approximately 17.5 hours and its effects can last up to 36 hours, making it the longest-acting licensed PDE5 inhibitor available in the UK. By comparison, sildenafil (Viagra) typically lasts 4–6 hours and vardenafil around 4–5 hours. This extended window is one reason many men prefer tadalafil for its flexibility.

What is the correct dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction?

The standard on-demand starting dose is 10mg, taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. Your prescriber may adjust this to 5mg or 20mg depending on how well it works and how you tolerate it. If you prefer not to plan around taking a tablet, a daily dose of 2.5mg or 5mg is also available and keeps a steady level of the medicine in your system.

What is the best time to take tadalafil?

For on-demand use, take tadalafil approximately 30 to 60 minutes before you anticipate sexual activity — though it can remain effective for up to 36 hours after taking it. For daily dosing, take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Unlike sildenafil, tadalafil can be taken with or without food, so meal timing is not a concern.

What are the most common side effects of tadalafil?

The most commonly reported side effects include headache, flushing, indigestion, back pain, nasal congestion, and muscle aches. These effects are usually mild and tend to resolve within a few hours without any treatment. If side effects are persistent or severe, speak to your GP or pharmacist about adjusting your dose.

How do I manage side effects of tadalafil?

Most side effects such as headache or back pain can be managed with standard over-the-counter pain relief, provided it does not interact with your other medicines — always check with your pharmacist first. Staying well hydrated and avoiding alcohol can help reduce flushing and dizziness. If you experience a prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours, or sudden vision or hearing loss, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Who should not take tadalafil?

Tadalafil is not suitable for people taking nitrates (used for chest pain), riociguat, or those with severe liver or kidney disease. It should also be avoided by anyone who has had a recent stroke or heart attack, or who has uncontrolled blood pressure. A full medical consultation is required before starting treatment to confirm it is safe for you.

Can I take tadalafil with alcohol?

Drinking alcohol while taking tadalafil can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, low blood pressure, and flushing. The NHS advises limiting alcohol intake when using this medicine. It is not strictly prohibited in small amounts, but heavy drinking significantly increases the risk of adverse effects and may also worsen erectile dysfunction itself.

Can tadalafil be taken daily?

Yes — tadalafil 2.5mg and 5mg are licensed for once-daily use in adult men with erectile dysfunction. Daily dosing means you do not need to plan around taking a tablet before sex, which many men find reduces anxiety around intimacy. Your prescriber will advise whether daily or on-demand dosing is more appropriate for your situation.

What happens if I miss a dose of tadalafil?

If you are on a daily dosing regimen and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is almost time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed one and continue as normal. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one. For on-demand use, simply take the tablet when you need it, within the prescribed limits.

How is tadalafil different from sildenafil (Viagra)?

Both tadalafil and sildenafil are PDE5 inhibitors that treat erectile dysfunction, but tadalafil lasts up to 36 hours compared to sildenafil's 4–6 hours. Tadalafil can also be taken with food without affecting its absorption, whereas high-fat meals can delay sildenafil's onset. Additionally, tadalafil is the only PDE5 inhibitor licensed for once-daily use in the UK. You can explore our men's health range to compare available options.

Is tadalafil available on the NHS?

Tadalafil is available on the NHS for certain conditions, including erectile dysfunction caused by specific medical conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or prostate cancer treatment. For other causes of ED, it may be prescribed privately. Your GP can advise whether you qualify for NHS prescribing based on your medical history.

How long can you stay on tadalafil?

There is no fixed maximum duration for tadalafil use — many men take it long-term without significant issues, provided they have regular reviews with their prescriber. Your doctor will periodically reassess whether the treatment is still appropriate and whether the dose needs adjusting. It is important not to stop or change your dose without speaking to a healthcare professional first.

What are the latest studies on tadalafil?

Research continues to support tadalafil's effectiveness and safety profile for erectile dysfunction and BPH. Studies have also explored its potential role in other conditions, including pulmonary arterial hypertension, where it is licensed under the brand name Adcirca. For the most up-to-date clinical evidence, refer to published literature via the NHS or NICE, and always discuss new research with your prescriber before making any changes to your treatment. You can also find complementary health support in our condoms and sexual health collection.

How Should You Use Tadalafil?

Always use tadalafil exactly as your prescriber has instructed. Do not take more than one tablet in any 24-hour period, and never adjust your dose without speaking to a healthcare professional first. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and can be taken with or without food.

What Is the Correct Dose of Tadalafil?

The right dose depends on whether you are using tadalafil on-demand or as a daily treatment, and on your individual response. Your prescriber will determine the most appropriate dose for you based on your medical history and any other medicines you take.

When Is the Best Time to Use Tadalafil?

For on-demand dosing, take tadalafil roughly 30 to 60 minutes before you plan to have sex. Because it remains active in your body for up to 36 hours, you have a generous window — there is no need to rush. For daily dosing, consistency matters more than timing relative to sexual activity, so pick a time of day that fits your routine and stick to it.

How Long Can You Use Tadalafil For?

Tadalafil can be used long-term, provided you have regular reviews with your prescriber to ensure it remains appropriate for you. There is no set maximum treatment duration, but your doctor will periodically reassess your condition and adjust your prescription if needed. If you notice any changes in your health or experience new symptoms, contact your GP or pharmacist promptly rather than continuing treatment without review.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Tadalafil?

Most men who take tadalafil tolerate it well, but like all medicines it can cause side effects. Common side effects affect up to 1 in 10 people and are usually mild, short-lived, and resolve without any specific treatment. If they persist or become bothersome, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Headache
  • Flushing (warmth or redness in the face, neck, or chest)
  • Indigestion or stomach discomfort
  • Back pain
  • Nasal congestion or runny nose
  • Muscle aches and pains

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Tadalafil?

Less common side effects affect up to 1 in 100 people. These are worth being aware of, particularly if you have underlying cardiovascular or eye conditions. Report any of the following to your prescriber if they occur.

  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Blurred vision or changes in colour perception
  • Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Swelling of the eyelids or eye redness
  • Hypotension (low blood pressure), particularly when standing up quickly
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Nosebleeds

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Tadalafil?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Do not ignore these symptoms or wait to see if they resolve on their own. Stop taking tadalafil and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you experience any of the following.

  • Priapism — a prolonged, painful erection lasting more than 4 hours. This is a medical emergency and can cause permanent damage if untreated.
  • Sudden loss or significant decrease in vision in one or both eyes
  • Sudden loss or decrease in hearing, sometimes accompanied by ringing in the ears or dizziness
  • Chest pain, particularly during or after sexual activity — this may indicate a cardiac event
  • Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as headache or flushing, staying hydrated and resting is often sufficient. Avoid alcohol, as it can worsen dizziness and low blood pressure. If side effects are affecting your quality of life, your prescriber may be able to adjust your dose — for example, switching from 10mg on-demand to 5mg may reduce the frequency of side effects for some men. Never stop or change your dose without medical advice.

Can Tadalafil Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — tadalafil has several clinically significant interactions. The most important is with nitrates (such as glyceryl trinitrate or isosorbide mononitrate), which are used for chest pain. Taking both together can cause a severe and potentially life-threatening drop in blood pressure. Alpha-blockers used for BPH or high blood pressure can also cause blood pressure to fall significantly when combined with tadalafil. Always give your prescriber and pharmacist a full list of your current medicines, including herbal remedies and supplements, before starting tadalafil.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Frequently Asked Question

The Ingredient in Cialis is Tadalafil. It is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) by increasing blood flow to the penis so you can get andmaintainan erection when you are sexually aroused.

It inhibits an enzyme called PDE5 that constricts blood flow to parts of the body, like the penis. By inhibiting that enzyme, Tadalafil lets more blood flow, which helps you get and keep an erection whenyou’returned on.

Tadalafil is nicknamed the “weekend pill” for a reason — it can last up to36 hours! Thatdoesn’tmeanyou’llbe aroused the whole time, but it gives you a big window for natural, spontaneous sex without timing pressure.

Yep,they’reexactly the same, ingredient-wise. The only things that make them different are their brand and their price. Tadalafil isthe generic, but it is less expensive and works just as well. 

Absolutely. Tadalafil does not produce an erection on its own — the drug only works after sexual stimulation.
Take it as soon as you remember — unless it’s almost time for your next one. Do not take 2 doses at once; just skip the first dose. Never double up doses.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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What exactly is Tadalafil?

The Ingredient in Cialis is Tadalafil. It is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) by increasing blood flow to the penis so you can get andmaintainan erection when you are sexually aroused.

How does Tadalafil work?

It inhibits an enzyme called PDE5 that constricts blood flow to parts of the body, like the penis. By inhibiting that enzyme, Tadalafil lets more blood flow, which helps you get and keep an erection whenyou’returned on.

How long does Tadalafil last?

Tadalafil is nicknamed the “weekend pill” for a reason — it can last up to36 hours! Thatdoesn’tmeanyou’llbe aroused the whole time, but it gives you a big window for natural, spontaneous sex without timing pressure.

Is Tadalafil the same as Cialis?

Yep,they’reexactly the same, ingredient-wise. The only things that make them different are their brand and their price. Tadalafil isthe generic, but it is less expensive and works just as well. 

Do I need sexual stimulation for Tadalafil to work? Absolutely. Tadalafil does not produce an erection on its own — the drug only works after sexual stimulation. What if I miss my daily dose? Take it as soon as you remember — unless it’s almost time for your next one. Do not take 2 doses at once; just skip the first dose. Never double up doses.