Information
What is Cialis?
Cialis is a brand of medication containing the drug tadalafil. It is approved in the UK to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). As it is a prescription only medication, it must be prescribed by a doctor or appropriate prescriber and cannot be purchased over the counter.
Also known as the weekend pill, the effects of Cialis can last up to 36 hours. The lower strengths of Cialis can be taken once daily every day. The higher strengths, including the 20mg strength can be taken once or twice weekly and still have the same benefits.
Erectile Dysfunction
More than 50% of men suffer from ED, causing issues getting or maintaining an erection. Sexual intimacy is more challenging, and men's confidence and self-image can be affected.
The likelihood of getting ED increases as you age but is also common in younger men. It is important to note that it is common for most men to occasionally fail to get an erection. It is only when this occurs more often that it is considered a problem which will need addressing by a medical professional.
For an erection to occur, sexual stimulation is required to cause an increased blood flow to the penis. This blood is entrapped within the penis, causing it to enlarge. When this process is disrupted, erectile dysfunction ensues.
Lifestyle factors damaging the blood vessels, underlying health problems and even psychological factors can all disrupt this process and therefore there is no one-size-fits-all approach to ED. If you are concerned about your symptoms, feel free to reach out to us at Quick Meds where our highly trained team of clinicians are at hand to help.
Talking to someone can help improve symptoms of ED as well as improving your lifestyle. Incorporating a balanced diet and exercise regime, reducing alcohol intake and stopping smoking or the use of recreational drugs can all help treat symptoms of ED.
If needed, medical intervention can be considered, including tablets such as Cialis.
ED Medication
The most common medicines used to treat erectile dysfunction are Cialis, containing the active ingredient tadalafil and Viagra, containing the active ingredient sildenafil.
Both these treatments belong to the same class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type-5 or PDE-5 inhibitors and work in a similar way.
How Does Cialis Work?
Cialis is known as a PDE-5 inhibitor. PDE-5 is an enzyme found in the walls of blood vessels which control blood flow. By inhibiting this enzyme, blood vessels relax leading to an increase in blood flow thus leading to an erection.
Whilst the medication is effective in increasing blood flow, it is important to note that this action is triggered by a psychological response. That is, without sexual stimulation or excitement, the medication will not work.
Cialis vs Viagra
Cialis and Viagra are the two most popular erectile dysfunction treatments. Both are PDE5 inhibitors but have some key differences:
| Feature | Cialis (Tadalafil) | Viagra (Sildenafil) |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Tadalafil | Sildenafil |
| Duration of effect | Up to 36 hours | 4 - 6 hours |
| Time to work | 30 mins - 2 hours | 30 - 60 mins |
| Daily dosing option | Yes (2.5mg or 5mg) | No |
| Take with food | Yes (minimal impact) | Best on empty stomach |
| Alcohol | Limit intake | Limit intake |
| Available strengths | 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg |
| Nickname | "Weekend pill" | "Little blue pill" |
| Prescription required | Yes | Yes (except Viagra Connect 50mg) |
| Price | Typically higher | Typically lower |
| Best for | Spontaneity, weekend use, daily dosing | Planned sexual activity |
Both medications are effective for treating ED. For longer-lasting effects or the flexibility of daily dosing, Cialis would be the preferred choice. Viagra would suit if you prefer a shorter-acting treatment at a lower price point. Get in touch with our prescribers if you're not sure which treatment to choose.
Cialis vs Tadalafil
Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis - both medications are identical in how they work.
See below for a comparison between the two.
| Feature | Cialis (Branded) | Tadalafil (Generic) |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Tadalafil | Tadalafil |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Various licensed manufacturers |
| Available strengths | 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg |
| Duration of effect | Up to 36 hours | Up to 36 hours |
| Time to work | 30 mins - 2 hours | 30 mins - 2 hours |
| Daily dosing option | Yes (2.5mg or 5mg) | Yes (2.5mg or 5mg) |
| Prescription required | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Higher (branded) | Lower (generic) |
| Effectiveness | Identical | Identical |
At Quick Meds, we offer both branded Cialis and generic tadalafil tablets, so you can choose the option that best suits your preference and budget.
Cialis Vs other treatments
Cialis works using the same mechanism as other PDE-5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil (Viagra) and vardenafil (Levitra), but to varying degrees.
Cialis is broken down more slowly in the body compared to other drugs resulting in its effects lasting up to 36 hours. This is a marked improvement on Viagra which typically lasts for 4-6 hours. Cialis is therefore the only erectile dysfunction medication which is also known as the weekend pill where one tablet could generally last over the whole weekend.
As with all medicines, there is the possibility for Cialis interacting with other medication and certain foods. Cialis for example interacts with grapefruit juice and therefore should not be taken at the same time as it may increase the levels of the drug in your body.
As with other medication from this drug class, there may be drug interactions and certain foods, like grapefruit juice, should be avoided when taking Cialis tablets. This is because it may increase the levels of the drug in the blood.
All medications should be taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activity to allow them time to work effectively.
Benefits of Using Cialis Tablets
Cialis is an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. Although it doesn't "cure" your erectile dysfunction, Cialis can help you maintain an erection and a healthy sex life.
It's important you rule out any underlying health conditions that could be causing your erectile dysfunction. Seek help from a medical professional if you're worried.
Cialis tablets take 30 minutes - 2 hours to work, which is slightly longer than Viagra which takes 30-60 minutes. However, the effects of Cialis last longer: up to 36 hours. This makes it longer lasting than Viagra or Levitra, and has earned it the name of the "weekend pill".
The medication can also be taken with or without food, although it may take longer to work if you eat a fatty meal before taking a Cialis tablet. Other types of ED drugs, like Viagra, should be taken on an empty stomach.
As we mentioned earlier, Cialis 20mg is suitable for men who've had no (or little) success with lower doses. Cialis comes in 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg strength.
A medical professional will consider your response to the drug, pre-existing medical conditions, and the condition you're taking Cialis for when deciding which dose to prescribe you.
Cialis and Other Health Conditions
So far, we've focused on Cialis and erectile dysfunction, but Cialis is also used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Cialis is used to treat BPH symptoms caused by a non-cancerous enlarged prostate. By relaxing the smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder, Cialis helps to relieve symptoms such as difficulty starting to urinate, weak stream, and needing to urinate often or urgently. Usually, 5mg of Cialis is prescribed to treat BPH.
Larger doses of Cialis, usually 40mg, are also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension. This condition involves high blood pressure in the vessels carrying blood to the lungs, causing shortness of breath, dizziness, and tiredness.
It's important to note that Cialis should only be taken under medical supervision and that it's not approved for sexual dysfunction in women.
Why Buy Cialis Online from Quick Meds?
Quick Meds is an online pharmacy that sells Cialis and other ED medications. We can dispense your prescription, or offer quick, discreet, and affordable ED consultations with a prescriber.
We assure the quality and authenticity of all our products and are approved by both the Medicine and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
Check our reviews on Trustpilot to hear what our customers think - our 4.8 star rating speaks for itself.
By purchasing Cialis from Quick Meds, you'll get a quality product at an affordable price, delivered quickly and discreetly to your door.
Dosage and Administration
Cialis requires a prescription, and your dose depends on what it's being used for.
For erectile dysfunction, the recommended starting dose is 10mg taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activities, as needed. This can be increased to 20mg at a later date if the response is poor.
For those likely to be sexually active twice or more a week, or who prefer to be spontaneous, a lower dose of 5mg once a day can be tried. It's then reduced to 2.5mg a day depending on individual response.
BPH patients usually start on 5mg once a day, and individuals with pulmonary artery hypertension usually take 40mg once a day.
As with all medication, the dose varies from person to person and is decided by your prescriber.
Taking Cialis 20mg Tablets
Cialis 20mg should be taken at least 30 minutes before sex, ideally on an empty stomach for best results. You'll need to be aroused for the drug to work.
If you're using Cialis for other reasons (usually at a different dose), make sure to take the tablet at the same time every day. It doesn't matter if it's in the morning or the evening.
Make sure to swallow the tablet whole, rather than crushing or chewing it. Only take one tablet a day unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional.
Missed Dose and Overdose
If you only use Cialis as required for ED, it doesn't matter if you skip a dose. For those who need Cialis every day for BPH, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is too close to your next dose. For pulmonary hypertension, take it if it's less than 8 hours late, or skip it if it's been longer.
If you're worried you've overdosed on Cialis, contact your doctor immediately or phone 111 for advice. If you or someone else has taken too much Cialis and is having issues with breathing, chest pain, or has lost consciousness, call 999 right away.
Common Side Effects
The common side effects of tadalafil happen in more than 1% of people, with those who take Cialis every day more likely to experience them.
Common side effects of Cialis include: facial flushing, muscle aches, headaches, feeling sick, indigestion, and a stuffy nose (nasal congestion). More information can be found in the patient information leaflet inside the medication box.
These side effects will stop once you stop taking Cialis, but a pharmacist or other healthcare professional can advise you.
Serious side effects affect less than 0.1% of people using Cialis. But if you experience vision or hearing changes, or a painful or prolonged erection for more than 2 hours, go to A&E right away.
Precautions and Warnings
Certain groups of people are more at risk of negative side effects. In older people, especially people with heart failure, anyone who's had a heart attack in the last 90 days, those with low blood pressure, and anyone with an eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, Cialis is not usually advised.
Individuals with liver issues should be prescribed Cialis with caution, and avoid taking it daily for erectile dysfunction. Doses are usually lower, with 10mg recommended to treat ED when needed, and a half dose of 20mg for pulmonary hypertension.
Similarly, Cialis should be avoided completely in people with kidney failure, and used at lower doses for people with kidney issues that are less serious.
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to make sure you're taking the right dose based on your medical history.
Interactions with Other Medications
Cialis interacts with a long list of medications, which can be dangerous or stop either medication from working properly.
Some of the most common medications that interact with Cialis include:
-
Blood pressure and heart medications, like amlodipine, ramipril, bisoprolol, and doxazosin
-
Anti-psychotic medications like olanzapine, haloperidol, and quetiapine
-
Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN spray for angina
It's important to discuss your medications with a medical professional. They will advise you on whether it's safe for you to use Cialis with your medications, and how to take your medications safely.
Storage and Disposal
Cialis should be stored in a cool and dry place, ideally below 25°C.
Dispose of any unused medication or any medication that has passed its expiry date. Your local GP surgery or pharmacy will usually have a way to do this safely.
FAQs
Can I drink alcohol while taking Cialis?
Avoid drinking alcohol with Cialis, as drinking too much alcohol can lead to orthostatic hypotension: low blood pressure when standing up. This can cause dizziness, and even fainting, which can be dangerous.
Are there any foods to avoid when taking Cialis?
Grapefruit, including grapefruit juice, should be avoided as it can cause the drug to build up in your system to levels higher than normal. This can make side effects worse, and (contrary to what you might have heard) won't make the drug work any better.
Can I take Cialis with my other medication?
Cialis can interact with other medications, so it's important to consult a medical professional, including an online doctor or pharmacist. Many medications are safe to take with Cialis, but it's important to check.
If you're taking nitrates, don't take them with Cialis.
How long does it take for Cialis 20mg to work?
Cialis takes from 30 minutes to 2 hours to start working and can last for up to 36 hours.
Can women take Cialis?
No, the drug is not licensed for women for sexual problems. However, they may be prescribed this medication for pulmonary hypertension.
Does Cialis make you last longer?
Cialis is known as the "weekend pill" because the effects can last for up to 36 hours. Whilst the medication can't delay ejaculation, it can prolong sexual activity that was previously being cut short due to losing an erection.
How often can I take Cialis 20mg tablets?
Cialis 20mg should only be taken once a day, as this is the maximum daily dose of the medication for ED. Only take it more regularly or at a higher dose if instructed to do so by a medical professional.
What’s the difference between Cialis and Viagra?
Cialis and Viagra are drugs from the same class, meaning they both work similarly. However, Cialis works for much longer than Viagra and may be taken after eating.
Can I take Cialis and Viagra together?
No, you shouldn't take both medications together. As they work in similar ways, taking both together can result in serious side effects.
Do I need a prescription to buy Cialis 20mg online?
Yes, a prescription is needed to buy Cialis online. If you don't have one already, Quick Meds offers quick and easy erectile dysfunction consultations with prescribers.
How should I store my Cialis tablets?
Cialis should be stored away from moisture and below 25°C. Medication should be disposed of after the expiry date listed on the packaging, which is 3 years on average.
What should I do if I experience severe side effects?
Severe side effects are rare with Cialis, with fewer than 1 in 1000 people affected. If you experience issues with your hearing or vision, an erection that lasts longer than 2 hours, or a painful erection, visit A&E and don't take more Cialis.
If you experience chest pain or seizures/fits, this can be a medical emergency. Stop taking Cialis and call an ambulance.
Is Cialis safe for long-term use?
Yes, studies suggest that Cialis, also known as tadalafil, can be used long-term without any major concerns.
Is Cialis available for free on the NHS?
Cialis is available with a standard prescription charge (or for free if you qualify) only in specific cases.
If you suffer from specific medical conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson's disease, prostate cancer, renal failure with dialysis, or have had specific types of surgery you may qualify.
You may also be able to get Cialis on the NHS if a specialist feels you're experiencing 'severe distress' from your erectile dysfunction, and is willing to be responsible for prescribing it.
Private prescriptions are usually the best option for getting Cialis.
How does Cialis compare to other ED treatments?
Cialis works similarly to other ED treatments but can last up to 36 hours. Usually, Cialis is more expensive than other treatments and is harder to get on the NHS.
Is generic Cialis available?
Yes, generic Cialis is a non-branded version of the drug that contains tadalafil, the same active ingredient.