What is Sildenafil – Effects, Viagra, Dosage and Side Effects
5. June 2025What is vardenafil – Effects, uses and side effects
5. June 2025
🧬 What is tadalafil? Effects, uses, dosage and benefits
Tadalafil is an active ingredient used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Like sildenafil or vardenafil, it belongs to the group of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, but they differ in their long duration of action, which can reach up to 36 hours.
The most well-known brand name containing tadalafil is Cialis, which is manufactured by Eli Lilly. Due to its long-term effectiveness, tadalafil has earned the nickname “weekend pill”.
💊 Cialis – a brand with a long effect
Cialis is the original drug with tadalafil. It is available in tablets of 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg.
- A single dose (e.g. 10 mg or 20 mg) is taken before intercourse, the effect lasts up to 36 hours
- A daily dosage (2.5 mg or 5 mg) allows spontaneous sex at any time of the day, without the need for planning
This flexibility is the main reason why many men prefer Cialis over Viagra or Levitra.
🔬 How does tadalafil work?
Like other PDE5 inhibitors, tadalafil increases blood flow to the penis by relaxing the smooth muscle of the blood vessels in the area of the erectile bodies. Unlike other substances, however, it remains active much longer, thanks to its chemical structure.
However, an erection does not occur without sexual stimulation. Tadalafil is not an aphrodisiac, but a supportive drug.
📋 Dosage and method of use
Tadalafil can be taken in two ways:
1. As appropriate:
- Usual dose: 10 mg or 20 mg
- It is taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity
- The effect can last up to 36 hours
2. Daily use:
- Low daily dose: 2.5 mg or 5 mg
- Allows spontaneous sex at any time
- Suitable for men who are sexually active several times a week
The tablets are taken with water, with or without food. Alcohol in smaller doses is usually tolerated, but in larger amounts it can reduce the effectiveness.
⚠️ Side effects
Tadalafil is generally well tolerated, but may have some side effects:
- Headache
- Redness of the face
- Digestive disorders
- Back and muscle pain (typical especially with higher doses)
- Rhyme
Rarely, serious reactions may occur:
- Priapism (long-lasting painful erection)
- Visual or hearing disorders
- Allergic reactions
Tadalafil must not be combined with nitrate medicines or certain medicines for high blood pressure.
❗ Contraindications and caution
Tadalafil should not be taken by men with:
- Serious heart disease
- Low blood pressure
- Bone marrow tumors or leukemias (risk of priapism)
- Allergy to tadalafil or excipients
- Taking nitrate-containing medications
🤔 Tadalafil vs. sildenafil vs. vardenafil
| Drug | Active ingredient | Onset of action | Duration of action | Daily dosage | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cialis | Tadalafil | 30–60 minutes | up to 36 hours | Yes | Long lead, flexibility |
| Viagra | Sildenafil | 30–60 minutes | 4–5 hours | No | Fast onset, proven effect |
| Levitra | Vardenafil | 25–60 minutes | 4–5 hours | No | Good tolerability in diabetics |
✅ Summary
Tadalafil (Cialis) is an effective and long-acting erectile dysfunction drug that offers men more flexibility in scheduling sexual activity. It allows you to choose between a “pill on demand” and a daily dosage, thus adapting to the individual needs of the user.
With up to 36 hours of effectiveness , tadalafil has become a popular solution for many men. However, it is important to use it responsibly, in consultation with a doctor and taking into account possible contraindications.
