Tadalafil 5mg tablets
Looking for a daily ED treatment that fits your lifestyle? Tadalafil 5mg tablets offer flexibility, spontaneity, and trusted results—making them a popular choice for men wanting reliable support for erectile dysfunction and urinary symptoms.
Key takeaways for tadalafil 5mg tablets:
- Tadalafil 5mg tablets are a daily, low-dose option for erectile dysfunction and some urinary symptoms.
- They offer long-lasting support, so you don’t have to plan intimacy around medication.
- The main ingredient, tadalafil, is clinically proven and trusted by millions worldwide.
- Side effects are usually mild, but always check with your prescriber before starting.
- This guide is packed with practical advice, friendly tips, and trusted references—so you can make confident decisions about your health.
Tadalafil 5mg tablets overview
Tadalafil 5mg tablets provide a steady, low dose of medicine, making it easier to respond naturally to intimacy whenever you choose. This sets them apart from traditional ED tablets, which are taken only when needed
[1].
Many men find that daily tadalafil takes the pressure off planning, and helps them feel more relaxed and confident in their relationships. It’s also used to help manage urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH)
[2].
As with any prescription medicine, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and to be aware of possible side effects and drug interactions
[3].
References:
1. Courier Pharmacy (2024) Sildenafil vs Tadalafil: which one is right for you? Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/sildenafil-vs-tadalafil-which-one-is-right-for-you/ (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
2. Sahare, P., Borikar, M., Gaikwad, U.R., Jadhav, A. and Selukar, D., 2025. The Study of Tadalafil and Tamsulosin as Monotherapy for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Due to Benign Hyperplasia of Prostate. International Journal of Pharmacy Research & Technology (IJPRT), 15(1), pp.209-212.
3. Courier Pharmacy (2024) Sildenafil vs Tadalafil: which one is right for you? – Side effects: what should you expect with sildenafil and tadalafil. Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/sildenafil-vs-tadalafil-which-one-is-right-for-you/#h-side-effects-what-should-you-expect-with-sildenafil-and-tadalafil (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
Tadalafil 5mg tablets active ingredient
Each tablet contains 5mg of tadalafil, a long-acting PDE5 inhibitor that helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow in the body.
Tadalafil 5mg tablets what is it for?
Tadalafil 5mg tablets are prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction, helping men achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused. They’re also used for managing urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate
[1].
Because tadalafil has a long half it is often called the weekend pill because its effects can last for up to 36 hours
[2].
The daily, low-dose approach is ideal for men who want more flexibility and spontaneity in their intimate lives, or who need ongoing support for urinary symptoms
[3].
References:
1.
Sahare, P., Borikar, M., Gaikwad, U.R., Jadhav, A. and Selukar, D., 2025. The Study of Tadalafil and Tamsulosin as Monotherapy for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Due to Benign Hyperplasia of Prostate. International Journal of Pharmacy Research & Technology (IJPRT), 15(1), pp.209-212.
Tadalafil 5mg tablets how does it work?
Tadalafil works by blocking an enzyme called PDE5, which helps relax blood vessels and allows more blood to flow to the penis during sexual arousal. This makes it easier to get and keep an erection, but only if you’re in the mood—tadalafil won’t cause an erection without stimulation
[1].
The tadalafil 5mg dose is designed for daily use, so the medicine stays in your system at a steady level. This means you can be ready for intimacy at any time, rather than having to plan for it or wait for a tablet to kick in
[2].Tadalafil also helps relax muscles in the prostate and bladder, making it helpful for men with urinary symptoms due to an enlarged prostate
[3].
References:
3.
Fawzi, H.A., Akram, S.N., Talib, A.F., Alwan, M.H. and Yasir, L.A., 2024. Comparing monotherapy with tadalafil or tamsulosin in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: A case–control study. Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research, 15(3), pp.161-165.Tadalafil 5mg tablets how to use it?
Take one tadalafil 5mg tablet at the same time each day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water
[1].
It’s important to take your tablet daily, even if you don’t plan to have sex every day. This helps keep a steady level of medicine in your body, so you’re always ready when the moment arises
[2],
[3].
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed tablet—never take two at once
[1].
References:
Tadalafil 5mg tablets side effects
Like all medicines, tadalafil 5mg tablets can cause side effects, but not everyone will experience them. Most men find that any side effects are mild, manageable, and often disappear as their body gets used to the medication
[1].
Common side effects
The most frequently reported side effects of tadalafil 5mg tablets include
[1]:
- Headache – This is the most common complaint and usually mild. It can often be managed by drinking more water and taking the tablet with food if you’re sensitive.
- Indigestion or upset stomach – You might notice bloating, mild nausea, or stomach discomfort. Avoiding heavy, fatty meals and staying hydrated can help reduce these symptoms.
- Back pain and muscle aches – Some men notice mild aches in the lower back, legs, or arms, often 12–24 hours after taking tadalafil. These usually fade within a day or two and can be eased with gentle stretching or over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
- Flushing (a warm, red feeling in your face or neck) – This is generally harmless and temporary.
- Nasal congestion – Some people report a stuffy or runny nose.
These side effects are usually short-lived and often improve as your body adjusts to the medicine. If they persist or become bothersome, speak to your pharmacist or prescriber for advice..
Less common and rare side effects
While most men tolerate tadalafil very well, some may experience less common side effects
[1], such as:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness – Especially when standing up quickly. If this happens, sit or lie down until it passes.
- Blurred vision or changes in colour vision – Rare, but always mention any changes in eyesight to your doctor.
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat – Rare, but should be reported to your healthcare provider.
- Rash or allergic reactions – Signs include itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you notice these, stop taking tadalafil and seek immediate medical attention.
When to seek urgent medical help
Very rarely, tadalafil can cause serious side effects
[1]. Stop taking the tablets and get medical help right away if you experience:
- Chest pain or severe dizziness – This could be a sign of a heart problem.
- Sudden loss of vision or hearing – This is extremely rare but requires immediate attention.
- An erection lasting more than four hours (priapism) – This is a medical emergency and needs prompt treatment to prevent permanent damage.
If you’re ever unsure about a side effect, don’t hesitate to contact your pharmacist, GP, or NHS 111 for advice. It’s always better to ask, even for mild symptoms, especially if they’re new or worrying.
References:
Tadalafil 5mg tablets drug interactions
Tadalafil 5mg tablets can interact with a variety of medicines and supplements, sometimes leading to serious side effects or reducing how well the medicine works. That’s why it’s so important to give your GP or pharmacist a complete list of everything you take—including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, and supplements—before starting tadalafil
[1],
[2].
Medicines you must not take with tadalafil
Some drugs are absolute “no-go’s” with tadalafil because of the risk of dangerous drops in blood pressure or other severe reactions. These include
[1],
[2]:
- Nitrates (for chest pain/angina): e.g., glyceryl trinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, isosorbide dinitrate, and GTN sprays or patches.
Taking tadalafil with any of these can cause a sudden, severe fall in blood pressure, which can be life-threatening.
- Recreational drugs called “poppers” (amyl nitrate or butyl nitrate): These also act as vasodilators and can dangerously lower your blood pressure when combined with tadalafil.
- Guanylate cyclase stimulators (e.g., riociguat, used for pulmonary hypertension): This combination can also cause unsafe drops in blood pressure.
Medicines that may require extra monitoring or dose changes
Tadalafil can interact with several other common medicines. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or monitor you more closely if you take:
- Alpha-blockers (for high blood pressure or prostate issues): e.g., doxazosin, tamsulosin, alfuzosin. Combining these with tadalafil can sometimes cause dizziness or fainting due to low blood pressure.
- Blood pressure medicines (antihypertensives): e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers. Tadalafil can enhance their effects, so your prescriber may want to monitor your blood pressure more closely.
- Certain antifungals: e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole—these can increase tadalafil levels in your body, raising the risk of side effects.
- Certain antibiotics: e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin—these can also raise tadalafil levels.
- HIV protease inhibitors: e.g., ritonavir, saquinavir—these can significantly increase tadalafil concentrations, so your doctor may lower your dose or recommend an alternative.
- Other medicines for erectile dysfunction: Never combine tadalafil with other PDE5 inhibitors (like sildenafil or vardenafil), as this increases the risk of side effects without improving results.
Herbal remedies, supplements, and other considerations
- Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may affect how your body processes tadalafil, potentially increasing side effects. It’s best to avoid grapefruit while using this medicine.
- St John’s Wort (a herbal remedy for low mood) may reduce tadalafil’s effectiveness.
- Other supplements or over-the-counter remedies: Always check with your pharmacist, as even “natural” products can interact with prescription medicines.
If you are ever prescribed a new medicine—whether for a short illness or long-term condition—always mention you are taking tadalafil. Likewise, if you want to try a new supplement or herbal product, check with your pharmacist first.
Final tips
- Always keep an up-to-date list of your medicines and share it with every healthcare professional you see.
- Never stop or start a medicine without checking with your doctor or pharmacist.
- If you notice new symptoms after starting a new medicine with tadalafil, seek advice promptly.
References:
- electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC) (2024) Tadalafil 20 mg film-coated tablets – Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC). Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/12501/smpc (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
- NHS (2024) Tadalafil. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/tadalafil/ (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
Tadalafil 5mg tablets FAQ
What is tadalafil 5mg used for?
Tadalafil 5mg is prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED)—helping men achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused. It’s also licensed for managing urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition in older men where the prostate gland becomes enlarged and affects urination
[1]. The daily, low-dose approach is especially useful for those who want greater flexibility and less planning around intimacy
[2].
How long does tadalafil 5mg last?
When taken daily, tadalafil 5mg maintains a steady level in your body, so you can be ready for intimacy at any time—without having to plan around taking a tablet. The effects of each dose can last up to 36 hours, but the aim with daily use is to provide continuous support for both ED and urinary symptoms
[3].
How quickly does tadalafil 5mg work?
Most men start to notice an improvement within 4-5 days of daily use, but for some, it may take up to a week or two to see the full benefits. If you’re taking it for urinary symptoms, it may take a little longer to notice improvements
[4].
Can I take tadalafil 5mg with food?
Yes, tadalafil 5mg can be taken with or without food. Unlike some other ED medicines, food doesn’t affect how well it works or how long it lasts. This makes it easy to fit into your daily routine—just take your tablet at the same time each day
[5].
Is tadalafil 5mg safe?
Tadalafil 5mg is generally safe for most men when used as prescribed. However, it isn’t suitable for everyone—especially those with certain heart, liver, or blood pressure conditions, or those taking specific medications (like nitrates). Always review the warnings and contraindications and read the patient information leaflet carefully
[6].
Can women use tadalafil 5mg?
No, tadalafil is not licensed or recommended for use in women. Its safety and effectiveness have not been established for females, and it should only be used as directed for men with ED or BPH
[7].
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss your daily dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one—never take two tablets at once to “catch up.” Keeping a regular routine (like taking it with breakfast) can help you remember
[7].
Can I drink alcohol with tadalafil 5mg?
Moderate alcohol intake is generally safe, but drinking large amounts can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, low blood pressure, or headaches. It’s best to limit alcohol to avoid these issues and get the best results from your medication
[8].Are there alternatives to tadalafil 5mg?
Yes—other PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil, and avanafil are available. Each has different onset times, durations, and suitability depending on your health and preferences
[5].
Can I take tadalafil 5mg if I have other health conditions?
It depends. Tadalafil may not be suitable if you have severe heart or liver problems, low blood pressure, or certain eye conditions (like retinitis pigmentosa). Always tell your prescriber about your full medical history before starting treatments
[6].
What medicines shouldn’t I take with tadalafil 5mg?
You must not take tadalafil with nitrates (for chest pain), guanylate cyclase stimulators (for pulmonary hypertension), or certain “poppers.” Caution is also needed with some blood pressure medicines, antifungals, antibiotics, and HIV treatments. Always provide your full medication list to your GP or pharmacist before starting tadalafil 5mg
[6].
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects are headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and nasal congestion. These are usually mild and short-lived, but always report any persistent or worrying symptoms to your healthcare provider
[6].
What should I do if I get side effects?
Most side effects are mild and go away on their own. Drink water, avoid heavy meals, and rest if you feel unwell. If you experience chest pain, sudden vision or hearing loss, or an erection lasting more than four hours, seek medical help immediately
[7].
How do I store tadalafil 5mg tablets?
Keep your tablets in their original packaging, away from moisture and heat. Store them out of reach of children and never use them past their expiry date. If you have unused tablets, return them to your pharmacy for safe disposal.
References:
1.
Sahare, P., Borikar, M., Gaikwad, U.R., Jadhav, A. and Selukar, D., 2025. The Study of Tadalafil and Tamsulosin as Monotherapy for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Due to Benign Hyperplasia of Prostate. International Journal of Pharmacy Research & Technology (IJPRT), 15(1), pp.209-212.
