Cialis, manufactured by Eli Lilly since 2003, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Its active ingredient, tadalafil, belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Think of it as a key that helps unlock blood flow where it’s needed most – allowing for a more robust and sustained erection when sexually stimulated.
Beyond ED, Cialis is also approved for treating the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate gland. This condition can cause difficulty urinating, and tadalafil works by relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder to improve urine flow. It’s a medication that has become increasingly popular over the years, often referred to as “the weekend pill” due to its longer-lasting effects compared to some other ED medications.
The story of Cialis is one of pharmaceutical innovation; it was the second erectile dysfunction prescription medication licensed in the UK after Viagra. Its prolonged effectiveness and the option for daily use have made it a widely prescribed treatment, offering men more flexibility and control over their sexual health. It’s important to remember that Cialis requires a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional.
Forms and Dosages Available
Cialis is primarily available as film-coated tablets, designed for easy swallowing. The medication comes in several strengths to cater to individual needs and responses. These include 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg dosages of tadalafil. The 2.5mg and 5mg doses are typically prescribed for daily use, while the 10mg and 20mg strengths are intended for on-demand use before sexual activity.
For those seeking a continuous effect, Cialis Daily offers a convenient option. These lower-dose tablets (2.5mg or 5mg) are taken every day at approximately the same time, allowing men to be prepared for spontaneous intimacy without needing to plan around taking a pill. The standard ‘as needed’ Cialis comes in 10mg and 20mg strengths; it’s generally recommended to start with the lower dose (10mg) and adjust based on effectiveness and tolerance.
Regarding splitting tablets, it is not recommended to split scored Cialis tablets without consulting a healthcare professional. The coating ensures proper drug release, and altering this can affect how the medication works. Here’s a quick overview in table format:
| Dosage Strength | Usage | Administration | Splitting Recommended? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5mg | Daily Use | One tablet daily, at the same time each day | No |
| 5mg | Daily Use | One tablet daily, at the same time each day | No |
| 10mg | On-Demand | One tablet 30 minutes to 1 hour before activity | No |
| 20mg | On-Demand | One tablet 30 minutes to 1 hour before activity | No |
Who Can Take Cialis Brand?
Cialis is specifically intended for use by adult men experiencing erectile dysfunction or symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It’s generally not prescribed for women, as it hasn’t been shown to have any beneficial effects and could potentially cause unwanted side effects. The medication isn’t suitable for anyone under the age of 18.
Extra caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart problems, liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, or a history of stroke. Men with these conditions should discuss their health status thoroughly with their doctor before starting Cialis. The elderly may be more susceptible to side effects and require lower dosages.
It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies or are taking other medications, as interactions can occur (more on that later). If you’re considering Cialis and fall into any of these categories, a comprehensive medical evaluation is essential to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for you.
How to Take Cialis Brand Correctly
Taking Cialis correctly is vital for maximizing its effectiveness and minimizing potential side effects. For the ‘on-demand’ version (10mg or 20mg), swallow one tablet whole with a glass of water approximately 30 minutes to an hour before planned sexual activity. You can take it with or without food, but be aware that a heavy meal might delay its onset of action. Remember, you should only take one dose per day.
If you’ve been prescribed Cialis Daily (2.5mg or 5mg), take one tablet every day at roughly the same time, regardless of whether you plan to engage in sexual activity. This consistent approach helps maintain a steady level of tadalafil in your system. Missing a dose of Cialis Daily? Simply take it as soon as you remember, but don’t double up on doses to make up for lost time.
It’s important to adhere to the dosage and timing instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t adjust the dose on your own; always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions. Consistency is key when it comes to Cialis Daily, while flexibility is allowed with the ‘on-demand’ version – but never exceed one dose in 24 hours.
How It Works: A Simplified Explanation
Tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, works by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). Imagine your blood vessels as highways; PDE5 is like a traffic controller that can restrict flow. When you’re sexually stimulated, your body releases nitric oxide, which signals the blood vessels to widen – opening up those highways for increased blood flow to the penis.
However, PDE5 works to counteract this process by breaking down cyclic GMP (cGMP), a molecule responsible for maintaining relaxed blood vessels. Tadalafil steps in and blocks PDE5, preventing it from breaking down cGMP. This allows the blood vessels to remain open longer, facilitating an erection when sexual stimulation is present.
Essentially, Cialis doesn’t cause an erection; it enhances your body’s natural response to sexual arousal by improving blood flow. It’s a facilitator, not a creator – and that’s why sexual stimulation is still necessary for the medication to work effectively. It’s a sophisticated process, but understanding the basics can empower you to use Cialis responsibly and effectively.
Contraindications: Who Should Avoid Cialis?
Certain medical conditions and medications make taking Cialis unsafe. Individuals with severe heart disease, recent stroke or heart attack, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or severe liver problems should not take Cialis. If you have a known allergy to tadalafil or any of the inactive ingredients in Cialis, avoid using it.
Those currently taking nitrates (often used to treat chest pain) must absolutely not combine them with Cialis, as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Similarly, combining Cialis with guanylate cyclase stimulators (like riociguat) is contraindicated due to the risk of severe hypotension. Men with certain rare eye conditions, such as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), should also avoid Cialis.
It’s crucial to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications before starting Cialis. They can assess your individual risk factors and determine if it’s a safe and appropriate treatment option for you. Ignoring these contraindications could lead to serious health consequences.
Interactions: What You Need To Know
Cialis can interact with several other drugs, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Alpha-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure or prostate problems) can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure when taken with Cialis. Antifungal medications like ketoconazole and itraconazole can increase tadalafil levels in your bloodstream, raising the risk of side effects.
Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin and erythromycin, can also have similar effects. Be cautious if you’re taking HIV protease inhibitors (like ritonavir) or hepatitis C treatments, as these can interact with Cialis. Even seemingly harmless substances like grapefruit juice can interfere with tadalafil metabolism, potentially increasing its concentration in your body.
Alcohol consumption should be moderate while taking Cialis, as excessive alcohol use can worsen side effects like dizziness and headache. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you’re taking – including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins – to avoid potential interactions.
Side Effects: What To Expect
Like all medications, Cialis can cause side effects, although they don’t affect everyone. Common side effects include headache, flushing (redness of the face), nasal congestion, indigestion, back pain, and muscle aches. These are usually mild and temporary, resolving on their own without medical intervention.
Less common side effects may include blurred vision, dizziness, or changes in color perception. Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. These include sudden vision loss, hearing loss, priapism (a prolonged erection lasting more than four hours), and signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling).
If you experience any concerning side effects while taking Cialis, stop using the medication and contact your doctor or seek emergency medical care immediately. Remember, reporting side effects helps healthcare professionals monitor drug safety and improve patient care.
Overdose Risks: What To Do In An Emergency
An overdose of Cialis is unlikely to be life-threatening but can cause unpleasant symptoms. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe headache, dizziness, nausea, flushing, and blurred vision. If you suspect someone has taken too much Cialis, seek immediate medical attention.
Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional. The best course of action is to call your local emergency number (999 in the UK) or contact the National Poison Control Center for guidance. Providing information about the dosage taken and any other medications the person is taking will help medical personnel provide appropriate treatment.
Prevention is key – always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and frequency, and never exceed the recommended amount. Storing Cialis securely out of reach of children and pets can also help prevent accidental overdoses.
Price and Availability in the UK
The price of Cialis varies depending on the dosage strength, quantity purchased, and whether you choose branded or generic versions (tadalafil). Generally, generic tadalafil is significantly cheaper than brand-name Cialis. As of late 2025, prices can range from approximately £1.19 per tablet for generic tadalafil to upwards of £36.20 for a single branded Cialis 20mg tablet.
Cialis is available through retail pharmacies across the UK, but it requires a prescription. You can also purchase Cialis online from reputable and licensed online pharmacies like https://medicade.co.uk/. Online purchases often offer greater convenience and potentially lower prices.
Factors influencing price include pharmacy markups, promotional offers, and the volume of tablets purchased. Shopping around and comparing prices can help you find the best deal. Always ensure that any online pharmacy you use is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) to guarantee authenticity and safety.
Buying Drugs Without a Prescription in the UK
In the United Kingdom, Cialis is classified as a prescription-only medicine (POM). This means it cannot be legally purchased over the counter without a valid prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. However, online pharmacies like Medicade offer convenient access to Cialis through an online consultation process.
These services typically involve completing a medical questionnaire and potentially having a virtual appointment with a doctor who can assess your suitability for the medication and issue a prescription if appropriate. It’s crucial to use only registered and regulated online pharmacies to ensure you receive genuine medication and avoid counterfeit products.
Purchasing Cialis without a prescription is illegal and carries significant health risks, as the medication may be substandard or contain harmful ingredients. Always prioritize your safety by obtaining Cialis through legitimate channels with proper medical oversight.
Delivery Information (Example):
| City | Estimated Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| London | 1-2 working days |
| Manchester | 2-3 working days |
| Birmingham | 2-3 working days |
| Glasgow | 3-4 working days |
| Cardiff | 2-3 working days |
Alternatives to Cialis Brand
If Cialis isn’t the right fit for you, several alternatives are available. Other PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra (sildenafil), Levitra (vardenafil), and Spedra (avanafil) work similarly but have different durations of action and side effect profiles. Viagra typically lasts around 4 hours, while Levitra offers a duration closer to Cialis.
For those seeking non-pharmaceutical options, lifestyle changes can often improve erectile function. These include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and managing stress levels. Some herbal remedies, such as Panax ginseng and L-arginine, have been suggested to help with ED, but their effectiveness is not well-established and they may interact with other medications.
It’s important to discuss all potential alternatives with your doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual needs and medical history. Remember that lifestyle changes can complement medication, but should not be considered a replacement for professional medical advice.
Precautions: Important Considerations
Before starting Cialis, inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, allergies, and medications you’re taking. Be particularly cautious if you have heart problems, liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, or a history of stroke. Avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol while taking Cialis, as it can worsen side effects.
Store Cialis in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not share your medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms. If you experience any unusual or concerning side effects, stop taking Cialis and consult your doctor immediately.
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your response to the medication and ensure it remains safe and effective for you. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have.
FAQ Section
Q: How long does Cialis last? A: Cialis can last up to 36 hours, earning it the nickname "the weekend pill."
Q: Can I take Cialis every day? A: Yes, Cialis Daily (2.5mg or 5mg) is designed for daily use.
Q: Does Cialis require sexual stimulation to work? A: Absolutely. Cialis enhances your body’s natural response to sexual arousal; it doesn’t cause an erection on its own.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Cialis Daily? A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but don’t double up on doses.
Q: Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while taking Cialis? A: Limit alcohol consumption and be cautious with grapefruit juice, as it can interact with the medication.
Reviewed by a Medical Professional
Reviewed by a medical professional Isabel D White.
