How to take tadalafil?

A common question men ask is if tadalafil can be taken daily. The simple answer is yes, but the daily dosing only refers to the lower strength of tadalafil 2.5mg and tadalafil 5mg. Usually, other erectile dysfunction treatments, the timing for taking them depends on when sexual intercourse is expected. With Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis 10mg or 20mg, you take them about 30 to 60 minutes before sex. But tadalafil 5mg is different—it takes longer to work, and its effects last much longer.

This blog will explain how to take tadalafil. Before we explain the best time to take tadalafil, let’s quickly cover the basics. If you already know about tadalafil 5mg, feel free to skip ahead using the table of contents below.

You can use the navigational table below to skip to the topics that interest you.

Key takeaways

1. Timing depends on how you use it: If you’re taking tadalafil 10mg or 20mg as needed, take it at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. If you’re on the daily dose of tadalafil 2.5mg or tadalafil 5mg, take it at the same time each day.
2. Can be taken with or without food: Tadalafil 5mg can be taken with or without food, so you don’t need to worry about timing it around meals.
3. Sexual stimulation is needed for it to work: Tadalafil 5mg helps you get an erection only when you are sexually aroused. It does not cause an automatic erection or increase sexual desire.
4. Tadalafil 5mg is not just for erectile dysfunction:It’s also prescribed to help with symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition as men get older. BPH can cause problems like needing to urinate more often or having trouble starting urination. By taking tadalafil 5mg, some men find relief from both erection problems and prostate-related urinary symptoms at the same time.
5. Supports cardiac health in some cases: Research suggests that tadalafil 5mg may offer certain benefits for heart health, including improved blood flow and a slight reduction in blood pressure. However, it’s essential to note that tadalafil is not a treatment for heart disease.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Before we talk about when to take tadalafil 5mg or Cialis, let’s make sure we all understand what erectile dysfunction (ED) means.

Erectile dysfunction, often called ED, is when a man cannot get or keep an erection that is firm enough for sex [1].

 It’s normal for men to have occasional trouble with erections, especially if they’re stressed or tired. However, when these problems happen regularly for about six months or more, it is known as chronic erectile dysfunction.

How common is erectile dysfunction?

A study published in 2000 estimated that around 150 million men worldwide had erectile dysfunction at that time. Experts believe this number is rising quickly, with predictions that more than 300 million men could be affected globally in the coming years [2].

One of the reasons is the vast increase in men with type II diabetes [3]. Before we try to understand why this is the case, let’s explore the mechanics of an erection.

The mechanics of an erection

Before we look at what causes erectile dysfunction, it’s helpful to understand how an erection happens.

Getting an erection is mainly about healthy blood flow. When more blood enters the penis than leaves it, the pressure builds up, and this leads to an erection.

Here’s how it works step by step:

1. The blood vessels in the penis are surrounded by smooth muscle. When these muscles relax, blood can flow in easily. When the muscles tighten, blood flow slows down [4].
2. The process of an erection starts when the lining of the blood vessels releases a substance called nitric oxide [4].
3. Nitric oxide triggers a rise in a chemical called cGMP, which acts like a messenger to close calcium channels [4].
4. Since calcium is needed for muscles to contract, less calcium means the smooth muscle relaxes [4].
5. This relaxation lets blood rush into the penis, creating an erection [5].

In simple terms, an erection depends on healthy blood vessels and good blood flow. Anything that harms your blood vessels can make it harder to get or keep an erection.

Causes of erectile dysfunction

Anything that harms the blood vessels in your body can lead to erectile dysfunction. Over the years, research has shown that several long-term health problems are linked to the rising number of men experiencing ED [6]:

• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure

These conditions can affect blood flow, making it harder to get or keep an erection.

Diabetes and erectile dysfunction

Diabetes is another major cause of erectile dysfunction [7]. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels over time, which makes it more difficult for blood to flow properly to the penis. This makes it harder to achieve or maintain an erection [8].

What is tadalafil or Cialis?

Tadalafil, also known by the brand name Cialis, was initially developed as a medication for heart conditions. However, doctors soon noticed that tadalafil 5mg also helped men get better erections, so its primary use changed from treating the heart to helping with erectile dysfunction [9].

How does tadalafil work?

Tadalafil 5mg is part of a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Other well-known drugs in this group include sildenafil (Viagra) and vardenafil.

These medicines work by blocking an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). This enzyme usually breaks down cGMP, a chemical messenger in the body that helps blood vessels widen [10].

Tadalafil 5mg works by blocking an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). Usually, PDE5 breaks down cGMP too quickly, making it harder to keep an erection. Tadalafil stops this from happening by competing with cGMP for the binding site on the enzyme. In a way, tadalafil “tricks” PDE5 into binding with it instead of cGMP [11].

The PDE5 thinks it’s binding cGMP, but it’s actually binding tadalafil or sildenafil. This is how these PDE5 inhibitors work: by being masters of disguise, tricking the PDE5 into thinking it is really cGMP [12].

High cGMP levels cause an erection

When cGMP levels are higher, blood vessels in the penis relax and open up, making it easier for blood to flow in and produce an erection.

If cGMP is broken down too quickly, the blood vessels tighten, and it becomes harder to get or keep an erection.

By blocking PDE5, tadalafil thus keeps the cGMP levels high, which causes the blood vessels to dilate, allowing more blood to flood the penis to cause an erection.

However, tadalafil or Cialis still requires initial sexual arousal to work [13].

How long does tadalafil last?

One of the main things that makes tadalafil 5mg (also known as Cialis) stand out from other medicines for erectile dysfunction is how long it works in the body.

Tadalafil 5mg has a much longer half-life than other PDE5 inhibitors. The half-life is the time it takes for half of the medicine to leave your bloodstream.

For example, sildenafil (Viagra) has a half-life of about 4 hours, so its effects usually last for 4 to 6 hours [14].

In comparison, tadalafil 5mg has a half-life of approximately 17.5 hours, meaning its effects can last up to 36 hours [15].

Because of this, tadalafil 5mg is sometimes called “the weekend pill” since you can take it on a Friday night and still feel its effects on Sunday.

What is tadalafil daily?

There are two main ways to take tadalafil for ED: as a daily low-dose tablet or as a higher dose taken only when needed [16].

• Tadalafil daily: This option uses a lower dose, such as tadalafil 2.5 mg or tadalafil 5mg, and is designed to be taken every day at the same time. Taking tadalafil daily means you don’t have to plan around sexual activity, which many men find more convenient.
• As-needed tadalafil: This method involves taking a higher dose, like tadalafil 10 mg or tadalafil 20 mg, about 30 minutes before you expect to have sex. This is similar to how other ED medicines are used.

The introduction of tadalafil daily has simplified the treatment of ED. Instead of worrying about timing your medicine, you can take tadalafil 5mg once a day and be ready whenever the moment is right [17].

The half-life of tadalafil

Tadalafil 5mg has a long half-life—about 17.5 hours—which makes it suitable for daily use. After taking it daily for five days, the medicine builds up to steady levels in your bloodstream, giving more consistent results [18].

Interestingly, when tadalafil 5mg is taken every day, its concentration in the body is about 1.6 times higher than if you only took it as needed. So, a daily dose of tadalafil 2.5 mg or tadalafil 5mg works out to be similar to having 4 mg or 8 mg in your system [19].

The FDA approved the daily use of tadalafil in 2008 following studies that demonstrated its safety and effectiveness.

Benefits of taking tadalafil 5mg daily

Taking tadalafil 5mg daily offers several health benefits beyond treating erectile dysfunction.

As a vasodilator, tadalafil 5mg helps widen blood vessels, which improves blood flow throughout the body. This action not only supports better erections but also provides benefits for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and may offer some advantages for heart health.

Tadalafil and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

Taking tadalafil 5mg daily isn’t just helpful for treating erectile dysfunction. This medicine works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which makes it easier for blood to flow throughout the body.

As a result, men taking tadalafil 5mg daily often experience improved erections, and it can also help with symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as frequent or difficult urination.

Taking tadalafil 5mg every day can help men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by easing common urinary symptoms, as well as improving erectile dysfunction [20].

Tadalafil and heart health

Daily tadalafil 5mg may also help the lining of your blood vessels function more effectively, which is beneficial for overall blood flow.

Tadalafil 5mg may also support cardiovascular health. It’s used to treat high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension), and early research suggests it could help people with certain heart problems by improving blood flow and protecting the heart muscle [21], [22].

Who should take tadalafil 5mg daily?

Tadalafil 5mg daily is best for men who are sexually active three or more times a week and want the freedom to be ready at any moment. With the daily low dose, you don’t need to plan your medication around sexual activity—tadalafil 5mg stays in your system and provides a continuous effect. This makes it easier for men who prefer not to worry about timing a pill before sex.

Taking tadalafil 5mg daily can also lower the risk of some common side effects associated with higher, one-time doses.

Who should take tadalafil or Cialis as needed?

Tadalafil or Cialis as needed—usually in doses of 10mg or 20mg—is a good option for men who have sex less often or don’t want to commit to taking a daily pill. With this approach, you only take tadalafil when you need it, at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. This method offers flexibility, and a single dose can provide effects that last up to 36 hours, allowing for a longer window of spontaneity.

Advantages and disadvantages of tadalafil 10 or 20mg (as-needed) vs tadalafil 5mg (daily)

Alternatives to tadalafil 5mg

If tadalafil 5mg isn’t the right choice for you, there are several other erectile dysfunction treatments available. Each option has its benefits, so it’s important to find what works best for your needs.

• Sildenafil (Viagra): This is the original PDE5 inhibitor, usually taken as needed. It acts faster than tadalafil 5mg but stays effective for around four hours.
• Vardenafil (Levitra) and Avanafil (Stendra): These medications also work quicker than tadalafil and sildenafil, giving you faster results when needed.

If you’re searching for what is tadalafil 5mg or looking to buy tadalafil 5mg but want an option that combines both short- and long-acting effects, Courier Pharmacy has a unique solution for you.

Can you combine tadalafil and sildenafil?

Usually, it’s not recommended to take standard sildenafil and tadalafil tablets together. However, there is a way to obtain the benefits of both medicines simultaneously.

At Courier Pharmacy, we can compound a special buccal film (also known as a soluble oral patch) that combines both sildenafil and tadalafil. This patch is designed for rapid absorption through the inside of your mouth—either against your inner cheek or under your tongue. It allows the medication to enter your bloodstream directly, helping you achieve an erection within about 30 minutes and lasting for up to 36 hours.

This unique oral patch comes in three different strengths, giving you the flexibility of sildenafil’s fast action and the long-lasting confidence of tadalafil 5mg.

If you’re interested in this triple-combined erectile dysfunction solution, you’ll need to complete a quick consultation to view and order it.

How to take tadalafil: Summary

Deciding whether to take tadalafil 5mg daily or only as needed depends on your routine, how often you have sex, and what works best for you.

If you’re sexually active several times a week, taking tadalafil 5mg every day can help you enjoy a more spontaneous sex life without having to plan around your medication.

For those who have sex less often, taking tadalafil only when you need it gives you flexibility, and each dose can last up to 36 hours.

Tadalafil 5mg (also known as Cialis) offers a reliable solution for erectile dysfunction. It can start working within two hours, and unlike some other medicines, food doesn’t affect how well it works. To get the best results from tadalafil 5mg, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as this can improve the medicine’s effectiveness.

If you’re unsure whether to buy tadalafil 5mg for daily use or take it as needed, our expert team at Courier Pharmacy is here to help. We can guide you to the most suitable treatment tailored to your specific needs.

Frequently asked questions about tadalafil 5mg

1. What’s the recommended starting dose for tadalafil?

For daily use, most people start with tadalafil 2.5mg. If needed, your doctor may increase it to tadalafil 5mg for better results. If you’re taking tadalafil as required, the usual starting dose is 10mg, which can be increased to 20mg if needed.

2. Can I skip a dose of tadalafil 5mg?

If you forget to take your daily tadalafil 5mg, take it as soon as you remember. Don’t take two doses at once. Missing doses might make the medicine less effective over time.

3. Will tadalafil 5mg help if I don’t have erectile dysfunction?

Tadalafil 5mg is meant for people with erectile dysfunction (ED). Taking it when you don’t need it can cause unwanted side effects and is not recommended. However, research shows that daily tadalafil 5mg can also help men with lower urinary tract symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

4. How long does tadalafil 5mg take to work?

Tadalafil 5mg can start working within 30 minutes to 2 hours after administration. For daily use, it may take a few days to reach its full effect in your system.

5. How long do the effects of tadalafil 5mg last?

Tadalafil 5mg is known for its long-lasting effects. Each dose can last up to 36 hours, providing you with more flexibility and confidence.

7. Are there any side effects with tadalafil 5mg?

Like all medicines, tadalafil 5mg can cause side effects. Common ones include headache, indigestion, back pain, and flushing. Most side effects are mild; however, if you have any concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

8. Can I buy tadalafil 5mg online in the UK?

Yes, you can buy tadalafil 5mg safely online from Courier Pharmacy after a quick online consultation.

9. What is tadalafil 5mg used for besides ED?

Besides treating erectile dysfunction, tadalafil 5mg is also used to relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate (BPH). It helps relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder, making urination easier.

10. Is it safe to take tadalafil 5mg every day?

For many men, taking tadalafil 5mg daily is safe and effective, especially if they are sexually active several times a week or have urinary symptoms from BPH.

Need to talk to someone about erectile dysfunction?

Don’t be afraid to bring up erectile dysfunction—it can be an early sign of other health conditions, just like a warning signal.

At Courier Pharmacy, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If tadalafil 5mg or other PDE5 inhibitors aren’t the right fit, we can suggest alternatives or even create a tailored treatment for you. The first step is to reach out.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about tadalafil 5mg, including how to purchase it, please get in touch with us today.

Please contact us if you have any questions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.

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