What is tadalafil (Cialis)?

Tadalafil is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED, also called impotence). It is also used to treat problems with urination caused by an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH). It is used to treat adult males.

It is sometimes known by its generic name tadalafil, and sometimes known by its trade name, Cialis. There are also other brands of this medicine available.

How does tadalafil work?

Tadalafil is part of a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It works by helping to relax the blood vessels in the penis, allowing blood to flow more easily. If you have erectile dysfunction, this can make it easier to get an erection.

Tadalafil also relaxes the blood vessels and muscles in your bladder and prostate. If you have BPH, this can improve your urinary symptoms.

Tadalafil doesn't cause erections on its own — sexual stimulation is still needed.

Tadalafil does not:

• cure erectile dysfunction (ED)
• increase your sexual desire
• protect from sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• work as contraception

What is tadalafil used for?

Tadalafil (Cialis) is used to treat:

• erectile dysfunction
• lower urinary tract symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is when the prostate gland gets bigger over time. It may:

• become difficult to urinate (wee)
• feel like you haven't completely emptied your bladder
• cause you to urinate more frequently, including during the night

Tadalafil can relax your prostate and bladder muscles and reduce your symptoms.

It is used to treat adult males. Tadalafil is currently not suitable for women.

What forms of tadalafil are available?

Tadalafil (Cialis) is available as a tablet. It comes in a range of doses. Your doctor will advise you on the dose that's best for you.

What are the possible side effects or risks of tadalafil?

The most common side effects of tadalafil include:

• headache
• indigestion or heartburn
• dizziness
• leg and back pain
• muscle aches
• flushed skin
• stuffy or runny nose

These side effects usually go away after a few hours. If you notice any unusual symptoms or side effects that worry you, tell your doctor.

More serious side effects include:

• chest pain
• hearing loss
• loss of consciousness or seizures
• altered or distorted vision

Occasionally, tadalafil can cause a painful erection or an erection that won't go away (priapism).

How do I take tadalafil?

If you plan to use tadalafil, you should take it 30 to 60 minutes before planned sexual activity. Its effects can last up to 36 hours, meaning you may be able to get an erection during this time. However, each erection will only last for a normal amount of time.

Your doctor may prescribe tadalafil as a daily low dose pill. Your doctor may recommend the daily pill if you have erectile dysfunction and expect to engage in sexual activity more than twice a week.

If you take tadalafil for BPH, you will need to take tadalafil daily for an improvement in your urinary symptoms.

You should not take any more than one tadalafil tablet in 24 hours. It can be taken with or without food.

Who shouldn't take tadalafil?

Tadalafil may not be safe for people with certain medical conditions, including people who have:

• had a stroke
• coronary heart disease
• non-arteritic interior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) — an eye disease causing loss of vision in one eye
• reduced liver function

It can also interact with many medicines, particularly nitrates (used for some types of heart disease) and blood pressure medicines. If you take nitrates in any form, or are on treatment for pulmonary hypertension, you should not take tadalafil.

If you are thinking about using tadalafil, discuss it with your regular doctor. Let them know about any medical conditions you have and all medicines that you take.

When should I see my doctor?

If you are having problems with your sexual function, see your doctor for a diagnosis and to make sure there's nothing else going on with your health. Your doctor will discuss the best treatment plan for you.

If you have any concerns or questions about taking tadalafil, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

If you are still having problems getting or keeping an erection after taking tadalafil as your doctor prescribes, speak to them about changing dose or treatment.

It is not safe to buy tadalafil online without a prescription. Counterfeit medicines can be very dangerous. You need a prescription from a doctor to buy tadalafil. You can buy it from a store-based pharmacy or reputable online pharmacy with a prescription.

What alternatives can I use for erectile dysfunction?

There are many other treatments for erectile dysfunction, including medicines and medical devices. This includes other medicines in the PDE5 inhibitor class.

You can read more about other treatments for erectile dysfunction.

Resources and support

Asking about your treatment or medicine is important, to help you understand your options. Read our guide to important questions to ask your pharmacist or doctor before taking a medicine.

You can also check the healthdirect's medicines tool for more information about tadalafil.

• See the Healthy Male website for more information about erectile dysfunction and its treatment.
• Read more on male sexual health on the Sexual Health Australia website.
• The Australian Government provides information on how smoking affects erectile dysfunction.
• Mensline is a free telephone and online counselling service. Call 1300 78 99 78 for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or chat online.

Do you prefer to read in languages other than English?

True provides multilingual information on men's sexual and reproductive health.

Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet has sexual health information and resources.