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What is Cialis?
Cialis is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) by increasing the blood flow to the penis by relaxing blood vessels.1 This should help you to get, and keep, an erection for sex or masturbation.
Cialis contains tadalafil which is the ingredient within the medication that provides the desired results. It comes in the form of a tablet and can be taken by men over the age of 18.
You do need to be sexually aroused in order for Cialis to work. If you’re not sexually aroused or your desire for sex (libido) is low, Cialis may not work for you.
If you are struggling with low libido, you can get help to understand the cause and increase your desire for sex. This may help your erection problems. You can talk to your doctor to find out more about the support that is available, including professional help from a psychologist or counselor. Your doctor may be able to refer you for counseling, or you can refer yourself through the NHS.
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How should I take Cialis?
If you are taking Cialis to treat erection problems you should swallow one whole tablet with some water at least 30 minutes before you want to have sex.2
You should never exceed the dosage limit of one tablet a day.3 For some men, their doctor or a pharmacist may suggest that they take a low dose of Cialis daily.It’s important to read the instructions that come with the medicine carefully because strength and dosage instructions can vary.2
Cialis isn’t appropriate or safe for everyone to take, including men with health conditions such as heart problems.2,3
How long does it take for Cialis to work?
It usually takes at least 30 minutes for Cialis to work.3 Some men may find it takes more or less time to get an erection after taking Cialis, everyone is different.
After sex, your erection should go away normally. If it doesn't, contact your pharmacist, NHS 111 or your GP.
How long does Cialis last?
Cialis can still be effective up to 36 hours after taking a tablet3 which can allow for more spontaneity than some other treatments.
What are the possible side effects of taking Cialis?
You may experience some side effects after taking Cialis. Side effects2,3 can include:
- headaches
- sickness (nausea)
- red or flushed face
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- muscle aches.
Talk to your GP or a pharmacist if you experience any side effects after taking Cialis. Find out more about all the possible side effects on the NHS website.
If Cialis isn’t suitable for you, there are other treatment options available that may help.
What is the difference between Cialis and Viagra?
Both Cialis and Viagra are designed to treat erectile dysfunction, however, they contain a different active ingredient. Cialis contains tadalafil, whereas Viagra contains sildenafil. Both tadalafil and sildenafil work the same to produce the desired effect of the medications.3,4
On average Cialis can last for up to 36 hours and Viagra is effective for 4 to 6 hours.3,4
You can always speak to your GP for information and support, but there are also a number of charities and organisations that you may find helpful.
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
01455 883 300
Find a registered counsellor or psychologist near you.
NHS website
Information about erectile dysfunction, treatment options and support.
Sexual Advice Association
Information for men about erectile dysfunction.
- Tadalafil 10 mg film-coated tablets - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc). Accessed June 15, 2021.
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/8636/smpc - Tadalafil: a medicine to treat erection problems and symptoms of an enlarged prostate. nhs.uk. Published September 10, 2019. Accessed June 10, 2021.
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/tadalafil/ - Cialis 10mg film-coated tablets - Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) - (emc). Accessed June 15, 2021.
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/7431/pil - Viagra 100 mg film-coated tablets - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc). Accessed September 4, 2020.
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/7978/smpc
Published: April 2022
Next review: April 2025
Reviewer: Mital Thakrar, Pharmacist
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