What Is Apcalis SX Jelly?
Apcalis SX Jelly is a topical formulation designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. The key active ingredient is Tadalafil 20 mg, a potent phosphodiesterase‑5 (PDE‑5) inhibitor that enhances blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Apcalis SX Jelly is produced by Ajanta Pharma Ltd., an established manufacturer of generic erectile dysfunction medicines in India. The jelly comes pre‑measured in sachets, each containing a single 20 mg dose that can be applied directly to the penile shaft before sexual activity.
The product is not intended for daily use; it should only be taken when needed and never more than once per day. By inhibiting PDE‑5, tadalafil preserves cyclic GMP levels, allowing smooth muscle relaxation in the corpora cavernosa and a sustained erection. The jelly’s fast absorption through the skin provides a rapid onset of action, typically within 15–30 minutes.
Because it is formulated as a topical gel rather than an oral tablet, Apcalis SX Jelly may be preferable for patients who experience nausea or other gastrointestinal side effects from tablets. However, the overall efficacy remains comparable to oral tadalafil when used as directed.
Forms and Dosages
Apcalis SX is available only in a single form: oral jelly sachets (20 mg). Each sachet contains exactly one dose, pre‑measured for convenience. Unlike tablets, the jelly cannot be split or divided because the dosage is fixed within the sachet.
The product comes in several quantity options on online retailers:
| Quantity | Price (UK) |
|---|---|
| 7 sachets | £20.00 |
| 21 sachets | £40.00 |
| 35 sachets | £60.00 |
Prices vary with the number of sachets purchased; bulk purchases typically offer a slight discount per unit. Shipping fees are usually between £3 and £8 for standard delivery, depending on location.
Who Can Take It?
Apcalis SX Jelly is indicated for men aged 18 years or older who suffer from erectile dysfunction. The product has not been studied in women, so it is not recommended for female use. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid tadalafil entirely.
Elderly patients may experience heightened sensitivity to PDE‑5 inhibitors; therefore, they should start with the lowest possible dose (the single sachet) and monitor tolerance closely. Patients with severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or those on nitrates should refrain from using Apcalis SX due to the risk of profound hypotension.
Patients taking antihypertensive agents, antacids containing aluminum hydroxide, or any medication that interferes with CYP3A4 metabolism should consult their physician before use.
How to Take Apcalis SX Jelly
- When: Take the sachet up to 30 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. It is not intended for daily routine use.
- With or Without Food: Food has little effect on absorption; you may take it with a meal if that suits your schedule.
- Application: Open the sachet, pour the entire contents onto the dorsal side of the penis, and massage gently until absorbed. Avoid contact with the glans to reduce irritation.
- Frequency: No more than one sachet per day. If you miss a dose, simply wait for the next scheduled use; do not double up.
- Duration of Treatment: Continue as needed; there is no fixed course length. For long‑term ED management, discuss with your GP whether switching to an oral formulation might be more convenient.
How It Works
Tadalafil blocks the PDE‑5 enzyme in penile tissue, preventing the breakdown of cyclic GMP. This molecule keeps smooth muscle relaxed and allows blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased arterial inflow. In lay terms, it is like turning on a faucet that fills a reservoir—only here the reservoir is your erectile tissues.
Because the jelly delivers tadalafil through the skin, absorption bypasses first‑pass metabolism in the liver, providing a more predictable onset and reducing gastrointestinal side effects associated with oral tablets.
Contraindications
- Nitrate therapy (nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, etc.)
- Severe heart failure or uncontrolled hypertension
- Known allergy to tadalafil or any excipient in the jelly
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Recent myocardial infarction (within the last 6 months)
- Use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, clarithromycin, or ritonavir
Interactions
- Alcohol: Excessive consumption can amplify hypotensive effects; limit to moderate amounts.
- Grapefruit juice: May increase tadalafil levels via CYP3A4 inhibition—use with caution.
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen): Combined use may raise the risk of low blood pressure; monitor closely.
- Blood thinners (warfarin, apixaban): No direct interaction reported, but any medication affecting platelet function should be reviewed with a clinician.
- Other PDE‑5 inhibitors: Do not combine with other ED drugs such as sildenafil or vardenafil.
Side Effects
Common (≥1 % incidence):
- Headache
- Flushing
- Back pain
- Nasal congestion
- Mild nausea
Less Common (0.1–1 %):
- Visual disturbances (blurred vision, colour changes)
- Facial flushing that persists >30 minutes
- Abdominal discomfort
Serious (rare):
- Pseudo‑exacerbation of priapism (>4 hours); seek immediate medical help.
- Severe hypotension leading to fainting or syncope.
Overdose Risks
An accidental ingestion of more than one sachet can lead to excessive hypotension, dizziness, and in rare cases, priapism. If an overdose is suspected:
- Stop taking the drug immediately.
- Call your local emergency services (999 in the UK) or go to the nearest Accident & Emergency department.
- Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional.
Price and Availability
The price of Apcalis SX Jelly depends largely on the quantity purchased. Bulk orders reduce the unit cost slightly, but shipping fees remain relatively flat across most UK regions. Retail pharmacies typically do not stock this product; it is primarily available through licensed online vendors such as Medicade.co.uk. Shipping times are generally 5–7 business days for major cities and up to 12 days for international orders.
Buying Drugs without Prescription (United Kingdom)
Apcalis SX Jelly is a prescription‑only medication in the UK. However, reputable online pharmacies such as Medicade.co.uk provide a streamlined process: you submit a valid medical prescription, and the pharmacy dispenses the product under regulatory oversight.
| City | Estimated Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| London | 5–7 business days |
| Manchester | 6–8 business days |
| Edinburgh | 7–9 business days |
| Glasgow | 8–10 business days |
| International | 8–12 business days |
Alternatives
Pharmaceutical: Oral tadalafil tablets (20 mg) remain the gold standard for ED. They offer flexible dosing and are widely available under brand names such as Cialis.
Natural Alternatives:
- L-arginine: An amino acid that may improve nitric oxide production but with modest efficacy.
- Panax ginseng: Traditional Chinese medicine reputed to enhance libido; clinical evidence is limited.
- Dietary changes and regular exercise: These lifestyle factors can improve erectile function over time.
Natural options generally have fewer side effects but also lower potency compared with PDE‑5 inhibitors. Patients should discuss these choices with a healthcare provider before switching.
Precautions
- Dietary restrictions: Avoid high-fat meals immediately before use; they may delay absorption.
- Alcohol consumption: Limit to moderate levels to reduce the risk of hypotension.
- Storage: Keep sachets in a dry place between 20–25 °C (68–77 °F). Protect from moisture and direct sunlight, and store out of reach of children.
- Pre‑existing conditions: Inform your doctor if you have cardiovascular disease, liver impairment, or are on nitrates.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use Apcalis SX Jelly daily?
A: No. The product is intended for occasional use only; using it more than once a day can increase the risk of side effects.
Q: Does the jelly cause nausea?
A: Because the drug is absorbed transdermally, gastrointestinal upset is uncommon compared with oral tablets.
Q: Will I need a prescription to order online?
A: Yes. In the UK you must provide a valid prescription; online pharmacies will verify it before shipping.
Reviewed by a Medical Professional
Isabel D White, MD – Clinical Pharmacology
