What Is Tadalafil? A Simple Guide for UK Patients

If you’ve been researching treatment options for erectile dysfunction (ED) or have been recommended tadalafil by a healthcare professional, you might be wondering exactly what this medication is and how it works. This guide provides a straightforward explanation in plain English.

The Basics: What Is Tadalafil?

Tadalafil is a prescription medicine used primarily to treat erectile dysfunction – the difficulty in getting or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It’s also prescribed for other conditions including benign prostatic hyperplasia (an enlarged prostate) and, in specialist settings, pulmonary arterial hypertension.

In the UK, tadalafil is available as:

• Generic tadalafil – produced by various pharmaceutical manufacturers
• Cialis – the original branded version
• Other brand names – some manufacturers use different brand names for their generic versions

All versions contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way, though prices vary considerably between branded and generic options.

What Class of Medicine Is Tadalafil?

Tadalafil belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. This class of drugs works by affecting specific enzymes in the body that control blood flow.

Other medicines in the same class include:

• Sildenafil (branded as Viagra)
• Vardenafil (branded as Levitra)
• Avanafil (branded as Spedra)

While these medicines work in similar ways, they have different characteristics regarding how quickly they work and how long their effects last. Tadalafil is known for its particularly long duration of action.

What Conditions Is Tadalafil Licensed to Treat?

In the UK, tadalafil is licensed for several medical conditions:

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

This is the most common use for tadalafil. ED is defined as the persistent difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It affects men of all ages but becomes more common as men get older.

Tadalafil doesn’t cure ED, but it helps manage the symptoms by making it easier to get and keep an erection when sexually aroused.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms such as difficulty starting urination, weak stream, and frequent need to urinate, especially at night.

Tadalafil can help relax muscles in the prostate and bladder, improving urine flow. Some men have both ED and BPH, and tadalafil may address both conditions.

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

This is a serious condition involving high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. Treatment with tadalafil for this condition is only done under specialist supervision in hospital settings and isn’t covered in detail on this website.

How Does Tadalafil Differ from Other ED Treatments?

The main distinguishing feature of tadalafil compared to other ED medicines is its duration of action.

Duration of Effect:

• Tadalafil can remain effective for up to 36 hours after taking it
• Sildenafil (Viagra) typically lasts 4-6 hours
• Vardenafil (Levitra) typically lasts 4-5 hours

This longer duration has earned tadalafil the nickname “the weekend pill” – a dose taken on Friday evening could potentially be effective through Sunday.

Onset of Action:

Tadalafil typically begins working within 30-60 minutes, though this can vary. Food doesn’t affect tadalafil as much as it affects some other ED medicines, though very large or fatty meals may slow absorption.

For more detailed comparisons, see our articles on tadalafil vs sildenafil and tadalafil vs other ED medicines.

How Tadalafil Works in the Body

When you’re sexually aroused, your body naturally releases chemicals that cause blood vessels in the penis to relax and widen, allowing more blood to flow in. This increased blood flow is what causes an erection.

An enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) breaks down one of the key chemicals involved in this process, which can lead to the erection subsiding.

Tadalafil works by blocking or inhibiting PDE5. By doing so, it helps maintain the chemical signals that promote blood flow, making it easier to achieve and sustain an erection when you’re sexually stimulated.

Important points to understand:

• Tadalafil only works in the presence of sexual stimulation – it won’t cause an erection automatically
• It improves the body’s natural erectile response rather than replacing it
• It doesn’t increase sexual desire or libido
• The effect is temporary and wears off over time

For a more detailed explanation of the mechanism, read our guide on how tadalafil works.

Forms and Strengths

Tadalafil is available as tablets in several strengths:

• 2.5mg
• 5mg
• 10mg
• 20mg

Some strengths are typically used for daily treatment (2.5mg and 5mg), while others are more commonly used for on-demand treatment (10mg and 20mg).

The tablets are usually film-coated and come in blister packs. They should be swallowed whole with water and can be taken with or without food.

For more information about different tablet types, see our article on tadalafil tablets and pills.

Who Manufactures Tadalafil?

Since the patent for Cialis expired, many pharmaceutical companies now manufacture generic tadalafil. In the UK, you might encounter tadalafil from manufacturers including:

• Teva
• Accord
• Mylan
• Sandoz
• Zentiva
• Dr Reddy’s
• Many others

All generic medicines must meet strict regulatory standards set by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Generic tadalafil must demonstrate that it’s bioequivalent to the original Cialis, meaning it works in the same way and to the same standard.

Is Tadalafil Safe?

Tadalafil has been used by millions of men worldwide and has a well-established safety profile when used appropriately under medical supervision. However, like all medicines, it can cause side effects and isn’t suitable for everyone.

It’s not safe to take tadalafil if you:

• Take nitrate medicines for chest pain
• Have severe heart or liver problems
• Have recently had a stroke or heart attack
• Have certain eye conditions
• Have been advised by your doctor not to have sexual activity
• Have low blood pressure
• Are allergic to tadalafil

A prescriber needs to review your full medical history and current medications before deciding if tadalafil is appropriate for you.

For detailed information about potential side effects, read our comprehensive guide on tadalafil side effects.

Daily vs On-Demand Use

Tadalafil can be prescribed in two different ways:

Daily Treatment

Lower doses (2.5mg or 5mg) are taken at the same time every day, regardless of when you plan to have sex. This creates a steady level of the medication in your system, allowing for more spontaneity.

Learn more in our article on tadalafil 5mg daily treatment.

On-Demand Treatment

Higher doses (10mg or 20mg) are taken roughly 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. The effects can last up to 36 hours, but you only take the medicine when you anticipate needing it.

See our guide on tadalafil 10mg and 20mg on-demand treatment for more details.

Only a healthcare professional can determine which approach is most suitable for your individual circumstances.

How to Get Tadalafil in the UK

Tadalafil is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. This means you need a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional before you can obtain it.

There are several legitimate routes to getting a prescription:

1. NHS GP – Your GP can assess you and, if appropriate, prescribe tadalafil (availability of NHS funding varies by area)
2. Private GP or clinic – Pay for a private consultation and prescription
3. Online clinic – Complete a medical questionnaire reviewed by a UK-registered prescriber

For comprehensive information about accessing tadalafil, see our main guide on tadalafil in the UK.

For advice on using online services safely, read our article on how to buy tadalafil online in the UK.

What to Expect When Taking Tadalafil

If you’re prescribed tadalafil, here’s what typically happens:

1. Assessment – A healthcare professional reviews your medical history, current medications, and overall health
2. Prescription – If suitable, you’ll be prescribed a specific dose and given instructions
3. Trial period – You may need to try the medication a few times to gauge its effectiveness
4. Adjustment – Your dose might be adjusted based on how well it works and whether you experience side effects
5. Ongoing monitoring – Regular check-ins to ensure the medication continues to be safe and effective

Most men find that tadalafil works well for them, though it may take some trial and error to find the optimal dose and timing.

Common Questions from Patients

Does tadalafil work immediately?

Tadalafil typically takes 30-60 minutes to start working, though it can take up to 2 hours for some men. It’s most effective when you’re sexually aroused.

How long will one dose last?

A single dose of tadalafil can remain effective for up to 36 hours. This doesn’t mean you’ll have an erection for 36 hours – rather, you’ll be able to achieve erections during this window when sexually stimulated.

Can I take it with other medications?

This depends on what other medications you’re taking. Some drugs interact dangerously with tadalafil, particularly nitrates and certain blood pressure medications. Always tell your prescriber about all medicines you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

What if it doesn’t work for me?

Tadalafil doesn’t work for everyone. If you don’t see results after trying it several times, speak to your prescriber. You might need a different dose, a different ED medication, or investigation into underlying causes of your erectile difficulties.

Understanding Treatment Context

It’s important to view tadalafil as one part of overall health management rather than a standalone solution. Erectile dysfunction can sometimes be an early warning sign of underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes.

Your healthcare provider should consider:

• Whether any underlying conditions need treatment
• Lifestyle factors that might be contributing to ED
• Psychological factors such as anxiety or stress
• Relationship factors that might benefit from counselling

Medication like tadalafil is often most effective when combined with attention to overall health and wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tadalafil the same as Viagra?

No. Viagra is the brand name for sildenafil, which is a different (though related) medication. Both are PDE5 inhibitors used to treat ED, but tadalafil has a longer duration of action.

Can women take tadalafil?

Tadalafil is not licensed for use in women in the UK. While it has been studied for certain female conditions, it’s only approved and prescribed for men.

How much does tadalafil cost?

Prices vary widely depending on whether you’re getting NHS funding, using a private prescription, or buying through an online clinic, and whether you choose generic or branded medication. See our article on tadalafil prices in the UK for current information.

Can I take tadalafil if I have high blood pressure?

Some men with high blood pressure can take tadalafil, but this depends on how well controlled your blood pressure is and what medications you’re taking for it. Only a healthcare professional can make this determination. See our article on tadalafil and blood pressure for more information.

Will tadalafil cure my erectile dysfunction?

No. Tadalafil is a treatment that manages ED symptoms while you’re taking it, but it doesn’t cure the underlying condition. If you stop taking it, your ED symptoms will typically return.

Next Steps

If you think tadalafil might be appropriate for you:

1. Book an appointment with your GP or a private doctor
2. Be prepared to discuss your medical history honestly and thoroughly
3. Ask questions about the different treatment options available
4. Discuss whether daily or on-demand treatment might suit your lifestyle better
5. Make sure you understand how to take the medication and what side effects to watch for

Remember, all information on this website is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Only a qualified healthcare professional who has assessed you can determine whether tadalafil is right for you.