Tadalafil: What It Is and How It Works

If you’ve heard the name Cialis or saw a prescription for tadalafil, you probably wonder what it actually does. Tadalafil is a pill that helps men with erectile dysfunction (ED) get and keep an erection when they’re sexually stimulated. It works by relaxing blood vessels in the penis so more blood can flow in, making it easier to achieve firmness.

Unlike some other ED meds, tadalafil stays active for up to 36 hours, which is why people call it the "weekend pill." That doesn’t mean you stay erect all day – you still need sexual arousal. The long window simply gives you more flexibility about timing.

How to Take Tadalafil Safely

The usual starting dose for most men is 10 mg taken before sex, but you can adjust to 5 mg or 20 mg based on how your body reacts. If you’re using it daily, the recommended dose is 2.5–5 mg once a day at about the same time each day.

Take the tablet with water – food doesn’t matter much, though a very heavy meal might slow down the effect a bit. Avoid alcohol excess; drinking too much can make it harder to get an erection and increase side‑effects like dizziness.

If you have heart problems, low blood pressure, or are on nitrates (often prescribed for chest pain), do not use tadalafil. The combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Always tell your doctor about other meds you’re taking, especially antihypertensives, alpha‑blockers, or antifungals.

Common side effects are mild: headache, facial flushing, upset stomach, or back pain that usually fades within a few hours. If anything feels severe – like a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism) – seek medical help right away.

Common Questions About Tadalafil

Can I take tadalafil with alcohol? A little beer or wine won’t ruin the pill, but heavy drinking can blunt the result and increase side‑effects. Keep it moderate.

Do I need a prescription? Yes. Tadalafil is only legal with a doctor’s prescription in most countries because dosage needs to match your health profile.

Is tadalafil only for ED? No. A lower daily dose (2.5 mg) is also approved for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which helps with urinary symptoms.

Will it affect my fertility? Tadalafil does not change sperm count or quality, but talk to your doctor if you have concerns about future family planning.

When you order tadalafil online, pick a reputable pharmacy that requires a prescription. Look for clear contact info, secure checkout, and customer reviews. Cheap “no‑prescription” sites often sell counterfeit pills that can be unsafe.

In short, tadalafil is an effective, long‑lasting option for many men dealing with ED or BPH. The key is to start at a low dose, monitor how you feel, and keep the conversation open with your healthcare provider. That way you get the benefits without unnecessary risks.