How Long Does Cialis Work


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How long does Cialis last? How long before it kicks in

Tadalafil is available in two different doses which can provide treatment for different lengths of time.

How Does Cialis Work and What to Do If It Doesn’t

Cialis® is one of several medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Thanks to its long half-life, it can provide relief from erectile dysfunction that lasts for 36 hours.

Like Viagra®, Stendra® and Levitra®, Cialis is highly effective as a treatment for ED. Studies of tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, show that it improves erections and enhances sexual performance even at a relatively low dose.

However, no medication has a 100 percent success rate, and Cialis is no exception. Even after you take Cialis, you could still experience some symptoms of ED. Below, we’ve explained some reasons why this can happen, as well as some things you can do if Cialis doesn’t work for you.

How Does Cialis Work?

Tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, works the same way as the sildenafil used in Viagra, the avanafil used in Stendra or the vardenafil used in Levitra. They’re all categorized as PDE5 inhibitors.

After you take Cialis, your body absorbs the tadalafil inside the tablet. Tadalafil will increase blood flow to the blood vessels in the erectile tissue of your penis by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme. This makes it easier for blood to flow into your penis when you’re ready for sexual activity, giving you an erection.

According to Harvard Men’s Health Watch, the active ingredients used in Cialis, Viagra, Stendra and Levitra are only fully effective around 70 percent of the time in the healthy men that take them, meaning that many men still have erection issues even with the use of medication.

Factors That Can Affect How Cialis Works

Sometimes, symptoms associated with ED can persist because the medication wasn’t used properly. In other cases, other health issues can affect the effectiveness of Cialis. Below, we’ve listed several of the most common reasons why Cialis might not work for you:

You’re Not Using Cialis Correctly

Cialis is designed to be used under specific conditions for maximum effectiveness. While you should always take Cialis exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to, it is generally recommended that for optimal results, you should:

    • Take Cialis at least one hour before sex. How long does it take for Cialis to work? Cialis can take up to one hour to start fully working inside your body, according to an article published in the journal, Patient Preference and Adherence. Try to take your Cialis tablet at least one hour before sex for optimal results.

Since Cialis is a long-lasting medication, you can take it several hours before sex without having to worry about its effects wearing off. According to a randomized controlled trial published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, unlike Viagra®, there’s no need for you to take Cialis on an empty stomach.

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You’re Not Using the Right Dose of Cialis

Cialis comes in several dosages: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg. Most of the time, the 10mg and 20mg dosages are used to treat erectile dysfunction, although the lower 5mg dosage is also occasionally used to treat cases of mild to moderate ED, according to an article published in the journal, BMC Urology.

Lower doses of Cialis, like 2.5 mg and 5 mg tablets, tend to be used to treat mild ED and medical conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), according to a clinical trial published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine.

If you’re prescribed a lower dosage of Cialis and you find that it’s not fully effective (for example, you notice some improvements but still have difficulty maintaining an erection), it’s a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare provider to see if switching you to a higher dose is appropriate.

You’re Experiencing Performance Anxiety

ED can be caused by sexual performance anxiety — a feeling of nervousness and anxiety before and during sex. If you’re affected by sexual performance anxiety, it’s quite normal to feel worried about Cialis’ effectiveness the first few times you use it.

This nervousness can result in worse ED than normal even after sexual stimulation, meaning that Cialis might not be totally effective as a treatment.

If you find that Cialis doesn’t work the first time you use it at a normal dosage, you may want to stick with it before you throw in the towel on this specific medication. Wait until you feel relaxed, confident and in the right mood so that you can judge Cialis’s performance fairly.

Your ED is Caused by a Psychological Condition

Cialis is designed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction’s physical causes, such as poor blood flow to the erectile tissue of your penis. However, it’s not a psychiatric medication and isn’t designed to be a treatment for some psychological causes of ED.

According to an article published in the journal, Health Psychology Open, erectile dysfunction can be associated with anxiety, stress and depression. If you have a mental illness or other condition that affects your sexual performance, Cialis (as well as other ED drugs like Viagra, Stendra or Levitra) might not be a completely effective treatment.

If you think this is the cause of your ED, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. Sexual performance issues caused by mental illnesses can often be treated through therapy, medications and other treatment options.

How long does Cialis last? How long before it kicks in?

In 30 seconds… Cialis is a clinically-approved erectile dysfunction drug, available to buy online from accredited pharmacies. You can also buy the unbranded version – which is called Tadalafil. Tadalafil is the active ingredient in both drugs. They are both PDE5 inhibitors; meaning they help relax blood vessels in the penis, encouraging blood flow, making it easier for men to get, and keep, an erection. Cialis is often called the “weekend pill” as it’s effects can last up to 36 hours, meaning your sex life can have a certain amount of sponteneity not possible with other erectile dysfunction drugs. Tadalafil often takes less than 30 minutes to take effect, which makes it quicker than other ED drugs. But on average, it can take up to 2 hours for the full effects to take hold. This differs for every man.

If you’re looking for information on Cialis, it’s likely you’re having a bit of trouble in the bedroom. And we’re sorry to hear that. Unfortunately, erectile dysfunction (or ED) is a common problem, affecting over 150 million men worldwide. Unhealthy lifestyles associated with modern life – like being overweight, stressed, sleep-deprived, drinking too much alcohol, and living a generally sedentary life, can all contribute to a man’s likelihood of developing ED. So the numbers are on the rise. Thankfully, these days, there are a raft of clinically-approved ED drug treatments available to buy from accredited online pharmacies. You can seek professional help, and get your prescription delivered directly to your door, without the need for an awkward convo with your doctor. Cialis has been on the market since 2003, and the unbranded version, named simply Tadalafil, entered the market in 2017. Tadalafil is the name of the active ingredient in both drugs, meaning they both work in the same way, with the same dosage, effects and side effects. Tadalafil is a type of drug called a PDE5 inhibitor. To get an erection, a chemical called Nitric Oxide is released, which enables the production of another substance called cGMP. cGMP controls the relaxation and stimulation of blood vessels within the penis, and that allows sufficient blood flow to get an erection, and contracts the vessels to keep the blood there. PDE5 destroys cGMP, so a PDE5 inhibitor drug stops that, to ensure the cGMP can do its job properly and help keep you up.

Known as the “weekend pill” because it is effective for up to 36 hours, Tadalafil is the generic, unbranded version of Cialis. Clinically proven to help you get an erection when you need it.

How to Take Cialis (Tadalafil)

So, first up, it’s important to know that Cialis is not an aphrodisiac. You have to be sexually aroused for Cialis, Tadalafil, or any other ED drug (e.g. Sildenafil), to work. So you’ll need to get in the mood, relax and let the pill do it’s thing… before you can do your thing. Cialis isn’t affected by fatty foods or mild alcohol intake, so you can take it at any time of day, however you’ve previously indulged. However, it’s important to note that excessive alcohol consumption is likely to affect your ability to perform. In fact, the mixture of the two – alcohol and Cialis – can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. So, go go easy on the booze if you’re hoping for a good time! The usual dose of Cialis (Tadalafil) is 10mg, however this can be adjusted to anything between 5-20mg, depending on your circumstance. If you’re in doubt about the right dose, speak to a Manual clinician. Cialis can be known as the “weekend drug” because its effects can last up to 36 hours. By that, we don’t mean you’ll have an erection for 36 hours – that would be dangerous, not to mention inconvenient. But if you’re turned on, you’ll be ready to get busy at any time within those 36 hours. So if you thought your days of spontaneity were over, think again – Cialis could be the treatment for you and your ED.

How Long Does it Take for Cialis to Kick In?

So, exactly when should you take Cialis, and how long does it take for the Tadalafil to kick in? Well, the effects are different and personal to every man, but the time-frame is usually along similar lines… On average, it can take 2 hours for the Tadalafil to take effect. That said, some men have reported the effects kicking in after just 15 minutes! And plenty of Cialis users will be more successful in achieving an erection after just 30 minutes. In comparison, Viagra or generic unbranded Sildenafil will need to be taken about an hour before anticipated sexual intercourse to give the best chance of effectiveness.

What to Know Before Taking Cialis

If, after taking Cialis, Tadalafil, or any other ED drug, you find yourself with a painful erection for 4 hours or more, seek urgent medical advice. You may be suffering from Priapism; a vascular condition whereby blood cannot drain from the penis as normal, despite lack of stimulation. The sound of a never-ending erection might sound fun to some people, but it can actually cause lasting damage to your penis. Cialis, as with any drug, does come with some side effects, however the likelihood of suffering from any negative effects is thankfully really low. If you’re otherwise healthy, the side effects shouldn’t put you off attempting to treat your ED with Cialis. Common side effects can include flushing, headaches, nasal congestion, back or muscle pain, and heartburn. However, if you’re suffering from one of several serious conditions, Cialis may not be the right treatment for you. If you have high or low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, or if you’ve recently suffered from a stroke or heart attack, you should definitely seek medical advice before committing to Cialis. Equally, if you have any kind of heart condition, you need to be careful – medications for heart disease are often from the nitrate family, and those and Cialis do not mix well. Some epilepsy and anti-seizure meds can be problematic as well, so our Manual clinicians are here to help if you have any questions.

Key Takeaways…

Cialis and Tadalafil are both great ED treatment options if you’re looking for a little spontaneity in your sex life. With positive effects in most men who chose this medication, it might be just what you need to get your intimate relationship(s) back on track. You can usually expect Cialis to start working quickly, often within 30 minutes – but of course, this is different for every man.

Erections aren’t always easy for millions of men in the UK. It’s no big deal. Choose from highly effective, clinically proven solutions.

While we’ve ensured that everything you read on the Health Centre is medically reviewed and approved, information presented here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor.

What is Cialis? How long does it last?

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Cialis is the brand name of a drug called tadalafil (see Important Safety Information), a popular medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Cialis belongs to a group of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors, which also include sildenafil (Viagra; see Important Safety Information) and vardenafil (Levitra). PDE5 inhibitors enhance your body’s natural arousal response by increasing blood flow to the penis, giving you harder erections. Compared with other ED drugs, Cialis lasts longer, working for up to 36 hours. But that doesn’t mean a continuous erection for 36 hours. It means that the medicine enhances your ability to get hard over the course of 36 hours.

As a treatment for ED, you can take tadalafil one of two ways (Rew, 2016):

  • As needed: dose taken as directed, at least 30 minutes before sexual activity
  • Every day: a lower dose taken at the same time each day without regard to when you have sex

Some people prefer to take Cialis only when they plan to have sex. Alternatively, you can ask your healthcare provider about a daily option to keep your plans a little bit more spontaneous.

Whether you and your healthcare provider opt for the smaller daily dose or the larger as-needed dose, tadalafil’s effects start around 30 minutes after you take it. Cialis also lasts longer than other PDE5 inhibitors. People who use Cialis report that they can get harder erections for up to a day and a half after their dose (Smith-Harrison, 2016).

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Can I take 40 mg? How much Cialis is too much?

The maximum daily dose of Cialis is 20 mg when taken as-needed. Taking more than that, like doubling the dose to 40 mg, or combining Cialis with other PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra (sildenafil) is not recommended and will likely increase the risk for side effects.

Side effects and potential risks of Cialis

The most common side effects are headaches, facial flushing, back pain, muscle ache, and changes in vision (FDA, 2011). Since Cialis is long-lasting, its side effects can last longer as well. In some people, they can linger for more than 12 hours compared with less than four hours for people taking sildenafil (Taylor, 2009).

What if Cialis isn’t working for me?

Maybe Cialis isn’t working as you hoped it would. That can happen. Luckily there are some troubleshooting steps you can take to make sure you get the most out of your meds. First of all, make sure you’re timing it right. If you’re taking the drug as-needed, try to make sure you’re taking it at least 30 minutes before sex (Rew, 2016). If you’re taking tadalafil once daily, make sure not to skip any doses and try to take it at the same time every day. Setting a reminder on your smartphone is a great way to time it properly.

While drugs like Cialis are pretty effective, they aren’t magic and they won’t give you out-of-the-blue boners. You need to get aroused for them to work. Arousal is a complex creature: it can be physical, some light touching or foreplay to set the mood; it can also be mental, getting excited over roleplay, erotic movies, or introducing something kinkier into the bedroom. Comfort also plays a role. Anxiety is a major boner-killer, so spending time getting to know your partner better may be the best aphrodisiac of all.

If you think the timing isn’t the issue, ask your healthcare provider about changing the way you’re taking Cialis: in one study, men who had only a partial response to as-needed PDE5 inhibitors switched over to the once-daily tadalafil and had better erectile function (Kim, 2013). Talk to your healthcare provider about any changes in Cialis effectiveness as well as other medications you may be taking; some drugs can affect how well tadalafil works.

What causes erectile dysfunction (ED) in men over 50?

Other treatments for ED

If you’ve tried troubleshooting the problem and you’re still not happy with tadalafil, there are plenty of options out there.

Lifestyle Changes

Cigarette smoking is associated with higher rates of erectile dysfunction. Research studies show that men who quit smoking have improved erectile function (Kovac, 2015).

Diet and exercise also play a role, particularly moderate-to-intense aerobic exercise which can help improve erections (Silva, 2017). In one study, young men who increased their fruit and vegetable intake, decreased alcoholic beverage consumption, and smoked less had better erectile function (Mykoniatis, 2018).

Treating underlying health problems

Many common health conditions can lead to erectile dysfunction, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, low testosterone, obesity, and depression (Rew, 2016). Untreated, these conditions can interfere with your body’s ability to sustain an erection, even when using medications like tadalafil.

Additional treatment options

If tadalafil and other PDE5 inhibitors are not working for you, your healthcare provider may suggest other treatment options including (Pastuszak, 2014):

  • Testosterone therapy for erectile dysfunction that’s caused by low levels of testosterone
  • Injections into the penis: Alprostadil and other medications directly stimulate the penis to get hard
  • Vacuum restriction devices: Can keep the penis hard for up to 30 minutes

Let’s recap: Cialis is an effective drug for treating erectile dysfunction. One advantage of Cialis is that it stays in your body longer than other PDE5 inhibitors, allowing for more spontaneity in your sex life.

References

  1. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2011). Cialis (tadalafil) tablets. FDA. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021368s20s21lbl.pdf
  2. Kim, E. D., Seftel, A. D., Goldfischer, E. R., Ni, X., & Burns, P. R. (2014). A return to normal erectile function with tadalafil once daily after an incomplete response to as-needed PDE5 inhibitor therapy. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 11(3), 820–830. doi: 10.1111/jsm.12253. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23841532/
  3. Kovac, J. R., Labbate, C., Ramasamy, R., Tang, D., & Lipshultz, L. I. (2015). Effects of cigarette smoking on erectile dysfunction. Andrologia, 47(10), 1087–1092. doi: 10.1111/and.12393. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25557907/
  4. Mykoniatis, I., Grammatikopoulou, M. G., Bouras, E., Karampasi, E., Tsionga, A., Kogias, A., Vakalopoulos, I., Haidich, A. B., & Chourdakis, M. (2018). Sexual Dysfunction Among Young Men: Overview of Dietary Components Associated With Erectile Dysfunction. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 15(2), 176–182. doi: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.12.008. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29325831/
  5. Pastuszak A. W. (2014). Current Diagnosis and Management of Erectile Dysfunction. Current Sexual Health Reports, 6(3), 164–176. doi: 10.1007/s11930-014-0023-9. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4394737/
  6. Pendharkar, S., Mattoo, S. K., & Grover, S. (2016). Sexual dysfunctions in alcohol-dependent men: A study from north India. The Indian Journal of Medical Research, 144(3), 393–399. doi: 10.4103/0971-5916.198681. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5320845/
  7. Rew, K. T., & Heidelbaugh, J. J. (2016). Erectile Dysfunction. American Family Physician, 94(10), 820–827. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27929275/
  8. Silva, A. B., Sousa, N., Azevedo, L. F., & Martins, C. (2017). Physical activity and exercise for erectile dysfunction: systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 51(19), 1419–1424. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-096418. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27707739/
  9. Smith-Harrison, L. I., Patel, A., & Smith, R. P. (2016). The devil is in the details: an analysis of the subtleties between phosphodiesterase inhibitors for erectile dysfunction. Translational Andrology and Urology, 5(2), 181–186. doi: 10.21037/tau.2016.03.01. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4837309/
  10. Taylor, J., Baldo, O. B., Storey, A., Cartledge, J., & Eardley, I. (2009). Differences in side-effect duration and related bother levels between phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. British Journal of Urology International, 103(10), 1392–1395. doi: 10.1111/j.1464-410X.2008.08328.x. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19154494/

How Long Does Cialis (Tadalafil) Last?

Tadalafil, also known by its brand name Cialis, is one of the most popular treatments for erectile dysfunction. A prescription-only drug, tadalafil is available in different strengths depending on the regularity of your sexual activity. Generally, tadalafil treatments last for 36 hours. However, there is also an option to take a tablet daily, which has a continuous effect allowing for spontaneous sexual activity.

What is tadalafil?

Tadalafil is a medication that is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction. It can also be prescribed for those with benign prostate enlargement or to treat pulmonary hypertension. Tadalafil comes in the form of tablets, which are taken orally with water. Tadalafil reviews suggest that most men find it to be an effective solution to treat ED.

What is the Difference Between Tadalafil and Cialis?

Tadalafil is the name of the active ingredient in both Cialis and tadalafil tablets. Cialis is a brand name for a version of tadalafil tablets, but both produce identical results dependent on the tadalafil dosage.

How Does Tadalafil Work?

A male erection is achieved through blood flowing into the penis, caused by a release of nitrous oxide in the body triggered following sexual arousal. After arousal, a chemical known as PDE5 is released which helps the penis return to its flaccid state. The premature triggering of PDE5 is the cause of erectile dysfunction in most cases. Tadalafil is known as a PDE5 inhibitor, which stops the production of this chemical and promotes increased blood flow to the penis following sexual arousal. Tadalafil does not trigger an erection itself, and will not cause an erection that lasts 36 hours. It works by helping the body to sustain one naturally. Sexual arousal is still required to achieve an erection.

What’s the Difference Between Tadalafil and Viagra?

Tadalafil is quite similar to the medication sildenafil, which is commonly sold under the brand name Viagra. Both are PDE5 inhibitors which primarily serve to encourage blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal. One of the main differences between tadalafil and Viagra is its extended life in the body, know as its half life. While Viagra tends to be effective for four-to-five hours, tadalafil can be active for up to 36 hours. A lower dose of tadalafil can also be taken daily, providing a continuous effect. Technically, tadalafil and Viagra differ in the number of other phosphodiesterases (PDE) that they inhibit. Viagra also inhibits PDE6 and PDE1, while tadalafil further inhibits PDE11. These differences can result in experiencing different side effects when taking Viagra compared to tadalafil, such as heightened light sensitivity and flushing.

Is Tadalafil Safe?

  • You have had an allergic reaction to a PDE5 inhibitor.
  • You have low blood pressure.
  • You have heart, kidney or liver problems.
  • You are taking nitrates, heart or epilepsy medication.

If you are taking any medication or have pre-existing medical conditions, you should speak to a doctor before taking tadalafil.

Are There Side Effects When Taking Tadalafil?

Side effects from tadalafil are uncommon. They are generally experienced more in those that take higher doses, but this is not always the case. Side effects will usually pass after a few hours.

More serious side effects are rare. If you experience any of these issues when taking tadalafil, call a doctor immediately:

  • Chest pains during or after sex.
  • An erection that lasts for more than four hours.
  • Problems with sight or hearing.
  • Rashes, hives or swelling around the face.
  • Seizures or fits.

Types of Tadalafil

Tadalafil is available in two different doses which can provide treatment for different lengths of time.

The most common version of tadalafil is known as the 36-hour tablet, available at dosages of either 10mg or 20mg. This version of tadalafil is designed for faster, more short-term activity, and can last for up to 36 hours.

The alternative option is known as tadalafil daily. Daily tadalafil tablets are available as 2.5mg and 5mg tablets and are designed to be taken on a daily basis, as opposed to just before sexual activity.

Tadalafil daily tablets provide a continuous effect for as long as they are taken. This means that you do not need to take a tablet before sexual activity, as tadalafil will be in your system and exert its effect upon sexual stimulation.

How Long Does Tadalafil Last?

Tadalafil is avaialable in different strengths. The lower 2.5mg and 5mg strengths, known as tadalafil daily, have a continuous effect. The 10mg and 20mg “on demand” doses can last for up to 36 hours.

How Long Does Tadalafil Daily Last?

Once enough of the tadalafil drug has built up in your system, it will provide a continuous effect, allowing for an erection to be achieved at any time following sexual arousal. Tadalafil daily can remain effective for up to 5 days after you have stopped taking the medication.

Tadalafil daily tablets are preferred by those who prefer a more active and spontaneous sex life.

How long before Tadalafil daily starts working?

Tadalafil daily is a small dose of 5mg. It can take around 3-5 days for tadalafil daily to build up in your system and start to work. Once enough of it is in your bloodstream, it will have a continuous effect, avoiding the need to schedule doses.

How Long Does Tadalafil 36 Hour Last?

As the name suggests, the higher dose of tadalafil tablets (10mg and 20mg) are active for up to 36 hours. Unlike tadalafil daily, which remains in the body, the 36-hour alternative should be taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity.

How Long Does Tadalafil Take To Work?

The lower doses of tadalafil 2.5mg and 5mg have a continuous effect. You will usually need to wait around 5 days for enough of the drug to build up in your blood.

The higher doses that are used when required, take around 30 minutes before they start to work. They can take effect quicker, but for optimal results, you should wait half an hour to allow tadalafil levels to peak in your blood. This is more likely to illicit a successful response.

What happens when you take Tadalafil (Cialis)?

We hope that this blog has answered many of your questions concerning tadalafil. If you’re uncertain as to which erectile dysfunction treatment is right for you, contact our trained team who can advise on the best course of action for you.

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.