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    Tadalafil (generic Cialis)

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    How to take Tadalafil

    Take one tablet at least 30 minutes before sex. Effects can last for up to 36 hours. Never take more than one tablet within 36 hours. Alcohol will limit Tadalafil's effectiveness. Do not combine Tadalafil with other ED medicines.

    The standard dose is 10mg. Depending on your age, height and weight, the cause and the severity of your ED, you may be prescribed a higher dose of 20mg. Dosage does not affect how quickly or for how long the treatment works.

    Higher doses come with an increased chance of developing side effects. 

    How does Tadalafil work?

    Tadalafil's active ingredient (tadalafil) increases blood flow to the penis. It enables a firmer, longer-lasting erection if you are sexually aroused.

    The treatment will not resolve the underlying physical cause of your ED or increase your sexual desire.

    How effective is Tadalafil?

    Tadalafil treats ED in 80% of cases. If you have drunk more than 1-2 units of alcohol, you may find Tadalafil is less effective. Food does not impact how Tadalafil works.

    We advise trying an ED treatment 8 times before giving up, considering a higher dose, or seeking an alternative.

    How long does Tadalafil take to work?  

    It usually takes 30-60 minutes for Tadalafil to start working. But, don’t forget you will only see the effects if you’re sexually aroused. Tadalafil can last for up to 36 hours.

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      Tadalafil FAQs

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      Does Tadalafil help with enlarged prostate? 

      Tadalafil is also used by men who have benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Men who has this condition have difficulty weeing, with a decreased flow amongst other symptoms. Tadalafil reduces these symptoms and reduces the need for prostate surgery.  

      Side effects of Tadalafil

      Side effects are uncommon, but can include headaches, indigestion, palpitations (racing heartbeat), light headedness, facial flushing, nasal congestion and muscle aches. These side effects should not last more than a few hours after taking a dose of Tadalafil.

      Tadalafil side effects long-term are rare. Heart problems have been reported by some men, however many of these men had heart issues before taking their medication. It’s important to let our clinicians know of any medical conditions or medication during your consultation.

      For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet.

      Can Tadalafil pills be split?

      Splitting Tadalafil tablets is not recommended. You should take Tadalafil tablets in the dosage suggested by your clinician or as explained in the patient information leaflet. 

      Is Tadalafil stronger than Viagra?

      One medication is not ‘stronger’ than the other, they just work differently and over a different period of time to manage ED. You can find out more about Tadalafil vs Viagra in our article.  

      Why is Tadalafil known as the 'weekend' pill?

      You might hear or see people referring to Tadalafil as the ‘weekend’ pill. This is because the effects of Tadalafil can last up to 36 hours, giving you help with getting an erection across a 2.5 day period. Taken on a Friday afternoon/evening the medication could take effect for the whole weekend, hence the nickname Tadalafil weekend pill. 

      Do you need a prescription to buy Tadalafil?

      Yes you need a prescription to request and pay for Tadalafil. 

      Can I buy Tadalafil over the counter?

      No, you cannot currently buy Tadalafil over the counter. 

      You can get Viagra Connect, another popular ED medication over the counter. You will need to answer some questions from the pharmacist just to double check the treatment is right for you. 

      Can I buy Tadalafil online?

      No, you cannot currently buy Tadalafil over the counter. You need a prescription to request and pay for Tadalafil.

      You can get Viagra Connect, another popular ED medication over the counter. You will need to answer some questions just so our clinicians can double check whether the treatment is right for you.  

      Drug interactions with Tadalafil

      You will be unsuitable for Tadalafil if you are taking alpha-blockers (such as doxazosin or tamsulosin), nicorandil or nitrates, such as GTN spray or isosorbide mononitrate tablets to treat angina.

      It is important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are taking so that we can prescribe Tadalafil safely.

      Alternatives treatments to Tadalafil

      Some men find counselling helpful as a means of exploring and treating psychological causes for ED.

      If Tadalafil does not work for you, contact us via your Patient Record so that we can discuss your treatment options. View all our ED treatments.

      Reordering Tadalafil

      If you’d like to reorder Tadalafil, you can go to your Patient Record and select ‘reorder’.

      Save 15% with a subscription

      If you’d like regular treatment, you can choose a subscription and save 15% off your consultation. 

      Free delivery or convenient ParcelShop collection is included each month, and there’s no contract to worry about, you can cancel any time.   

      How our service works

      1. Complete our simple, confidential online consultation

        5 mins

      2. One of our clinicians confirms your suitability and notifies you by email

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