Benefits of Tadalafil
- Long Duration of Action:
Tadalafil stands out among ED medications because its effects can last up to 36 hours. In contrast, most other ED treatments typically last 4 to 6 hours. This extended duration allows for more flexibility in timing, and due to its long effect, Tadalafil is sometimes referred to as “the weekend pill.” - Daily Low-Dose Option:
Tadalafil is available in lower doses (2.5mg and 5mg), which are intended for daily use. Taking a low-dose tablet once per day ensures a constant presence of the medication in the bloodstream, enabling more spontaneous sexual activity without the need to plan for each dose. - On-Demand Use:
Higher doses (10mg and 20mg) are intended for occasional use. These doses should be taken at least 30 minutes before planned sexual activity. This option is suitable for individuals who prefer not to take a tablet every day.
How to Take Tadalafil
- Low-Dose (Daily Use): Take one 2.5mg or 5mg tablet every day, at the same time each day, regardless of whether you plan to engage in sexual activity.
- Higher Doses (On-Demand Use): Take a 10mg or 20mg tablet at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. These doses should not be taken more than once per day.
Tadalafil can be taken with or without food. However, it is important to note that the medication requires sexual stimulation to work; it will not cause an erection without arousal.
Who Should Avoid Tadalafil?
There are specific health conditions and medications that may interact with Tadalafil, making it unsafe in some cases. You should not take Tadalafil if you:
- Are using nitrates for heart disease or medications known as “poppers.”
- Have a history of severe heart problems, recent heart attack, or stroke.
- Suffer from severe liver or kidney disease.
- Have a condition affecting the shape of the penis, such as Peyronie’s disease.
- Have certain blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia or leukemia.
- Have uncontrolled high or low blood pressure.
- Have a known eye condition, such as retinitis pigmentosa or a history of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
How Long Does Tadalafil Last?
The effects of Tadalafil can last up to 36 hours after a single dose. This extended duration makes it a convenient option for those who want more flexibility in their sexual activity. For individuals taking the daily low-dose version, the medication is continuously present in the bloodstream, allowing for spontaneous erections whenever sexual arousal occurs.
If you decide to stop taking the daily low-dose Tadalafil after using it for more than two weeks, it may take up to one week for its effects to completely wear off.
Potential Side Effects
While most people tolerate Tadalafil well, some may experience mild side effects such as:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Indigestion
- Back pain
- Nasal congestion
If you experience severe side effects, such as chest pain, sudden vision loss, or an erection lasting more than four hours, seek immediate medical attention.
