Cialis (generic: tadalafil) treats erectile dysfunction (ED) and symptoms of an enlarged prostate (BPH). It’s a PDE5 inhibitor — that means it relaxes blood vessels so blood flows more easily during sexual arousal. The big selling point? It can last up to 36 hours, which many people like for less planning.
How fast it works varies. Most folks notice effects in 30–60 minutes, but food and alcohol can slow that down. There are two common ways to take it: an as‑needed higher dose before sex, or a low daily dose for more spontaneous activity. Your doctor will recommend which fits your life.
Start with a safe dose. For as‑needed use, doctors often start at 10 mg and adjust. Some people use 20 mg; others drop to 5 mg if they get side effects. Daily dosing is usually 2.5–5 mg. Always follow your prescriber's instructions and don’t mix doses on your own.
Common side effects are headache, flushing, indigestion, back or muscle pain, and stuffy nose. They usually fade in a few hours. Stop the drug and seek immediate help if you get chest pain, sudden vision loss, sudden hearing loss, or an erection lasting longer than 4 hours — that last one needs urgent care to avoid lasting damage.
Don’t take Cialis with nitrates (the combo can crash your blood pressure). Be careful with alpha‑blockers and some BP meds. Tell your doctor about heart disease, stroke history, severe liver or kidney problems, and any supplements you use. Alcohol in excess can worsen side effects and reduce effectiveness.
Only buy Cialis with a valid prescription. Online pharmacies that skip prescriptions or sell at unbelievably low prices are often unsafe or sell fakes. Look for clear contact info, pharmacist access, licensing, and good reviews. If you travel, pack pills in their original packaging and keep a copy of your prescription to avoid border issues.
Generics of tadalafil are widely available and cheaper than brand name Cialis. Compare prices, but don’t choose the cheapest source if it won’t confirm a prescription. Pharmacies that require a prescription and offer pharmacist support are the better bet.
Thinking of alternatives? Sildenafil (Viagra) and vardenafil work similarly but have different timing and side effects. If one drug doesn’t fit your routine or causes problems, talk to your doctor about switching. ED can also signal other health issues like diabetes or heart disease, so a medical check is a smart first step.
Quick checklist: get a medical review, list all meds, start low, avoid nitrates, buy from trusted pharmacies, and track how the drug affects you. If you want more detailed guides, comparisons, or safe buying walkthroughs, this tag collects useful posts on dosing, safety, and trusted online options.
Explore the top 10 alternatives to Viagra for managing erectile dysfunction. This article provides detailed insights into various options including Cialis, Levitra, and lifestyle changes, highlighting their pros and cons to help you make informed decisions about your sexual health.