Tadalafil — the long-lasting ED pill you should know about

Tadalafil is a medicine most people use for erectile dysfunction (ED). It can also treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). What makes tadalafil stand out is how long it lasts — effects can last up to 36 hours. That gives more flexibility than some other ED drugs.

How tadalafil works & dosing

Tadalafil relaxes blood vessels in the penis so blood flows in more easily during arousal. For ED, doctors prescribe tadalafil either as a daily low dose (usually 2.5–5 mg) or an as-needed dose (10–20 mg taken before sex). Take the as-needed dose about 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. Food doesn’t affect tadalafil much, so you can take it with or without meals.

For PAH, doses and schedules differ and your doctor will guide you. Don’t change dose or frequency without medical advice. If one pill doesn’t work the first time, it doesn’t mean tadalafil won’t help next time — timing, arousal, and underlying health matter.

Safety, interactions, and when to see a doctor

Common side effects include headache, flushing, indigestion, back pain, and muscle aches. These usually fade within a day. Serious problems are rare but can happen: sudden vision loss, hearing loss, or a painful erection lasting more than four hours (priapism) need immediate medical attention.

Do not take tadalafil with nitrates (often used for chest pain). The combo can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Also use caution if you take alpha-blockers, certain blood pressure meds, or strong liver enzyme inhibitors like ketoconazole. Tell your doctor about heart disease, recent stroke, low blood pressure, liver or kidney problems before starting tadalafil.

If you’re over 65, have cardiovascular disease, or take multiple meds, talk to your healthcare provider. They’ll check if tadalafil is safe and recommend the right dose.

Want natural or non-pill options? Lifestyle changes — exercise, weight loss, quitting smoking, better sleep — often help ED. Some people explore other meds like sildenafil or vardenafil, or look into therapy when anxiety plays a role. If pills don’t fit, ask your clinician about alternatives.

Buying online: Tadalafil requires a prescription in most places. Use a licensed pharmacy, read reviews, and avoid sites selling cheap pills without a prescription. Fake or substandard meds are common on shady sites. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Need more reading? Check our articles on similar treatments like Silvitra, natural performance tips, and Priligy alternatives. If you have symptoms or side effects, get medical advice — this page is informational, not a substitute for professional care.