Tadalafil
A longer-acting prescription option.
An FDA-approved oral medication for erectile dysfunction, also approved for the urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Prescribed only after a physician evaluation of your heart health and current medications.
How tadalafil works.
Tadalafil blocks the PDE5 enzyme, which helps increase blood flow in response to sexual stimulation. It does not create arousal on its own. Its effect lasts longer than other medications in its class, which is why your physician may prescribe it either as needed or as a low daily dose.
- Men experiencing erectile dysfunction
- Men with erectile dysfunction and BPH urinary symptoms
- Patients whose physician determines a longer-acting option fits their needs
Never with nitrates
Do not use with nitrate medications (such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide), recreational “poppers,” or riociguat. The combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Heart health comes first
Sexual activity places demand on the heart. Your physician reviews your cardiovascular history and blood pressure before prescribing.
Full medication review
Alpha-blockers, other blood-pressure medications, certain antifungal and HIV medications, and alcohol can interact. Tell your provider everything you take.
When to get help right away
Seek emergency care for an erection lasting more than four hours, chest pain, or sudden loss of vision or hearing.
- Physician evaluation supervised by Thomas Nabity, MD, including cardiovascular history and a full medication review
- FDA-approved medication dispensed through a licensed U.S. pharmacy
- Hormone and metabolic labs when your evaluation calls for them — see Hormone Optimization
- Follow-up to review how the medication is working for you and any side effects
Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis® and is available as an FDA-approved generic. Common side effects can include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, indigestion and back or muscle aches. This page is general information, not medical advice. Whether tadalafil is appropriate, and at what dose, is determined by your physician after an individualized evaluation. Individual results vary.