The question “what is tadalafil” is increasingly asked by men looking for a reliable erection aid with a longer effect than Viagra. Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis and Tadalis SX, among others, and belongs to the group of medicines known as PDE5 inhibitors.
Like sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra), tadalafil relaxes the blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow during sexual stimulation. What sets tadalafil apart from other erectile dysfunction drugs is that its effect lasts much longer: up to 36 hours. That is why it is also called “the called “weekend pill”.
In summary:
✔️ What is tadalafil? → a long-lasting erection pill
✔️ Works up to 36 hours
✔️ Supports erection during sexual stimulation
✔️ Contains the same group of active ingredients as Viagra, but with a different duration of action
How does Tadalafil work in the body?
If you’re wondering “what is tadalafil and how does it work?”, you’ve come to the right place. In this section, we’ll explain how tadalafil works step by step, so you can understand why it’s so popular as an erection aid.
The pharmacological action of Tadalafil
Tadalafil is a so-called PDE5 inhibitor. This means that the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) is inhibited in the body. This enzyme is normally responsible for breaking down a substance called cGMP. This substance is essential for relaxing the blood vessels in the penis during sexual stimulation, which allows an erection to occur.
By blocking PDE5, more cGMP remains in the erectile tissue of the penis. This keeps the blood vessels relaxed and allows blood flow to flow more easily, which significantly increases the chance of a firm erection.
✅ Important: Tadalafil only works during sexual arousal. Without stimulation, nothing happens.
What is tadalafil compared to sildenafil?
Although sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis) have similar mechanisms, there are important differences:
- Sildenafil takes effect after 30–60 minutes and remains active for approximately 4–6 hours
- Tadalafil starts working after 30–45 minutes but remains active for up to 36 hours
- Tadalafil is broken down more slowly, which gives it a longer lasting effect
- Some men experience less severe side effects such as headaches or nasal congestion tadalafil than with sildenafil
➡️ So, those wondering “what is tadalafil and why should I choose it?” can think of its longer effect, better flexibility in timing and milder side effects.
What is Tadalafil used for?
The question “what is tadalafil” becomes even more profound when we look at the medical applications of this active substance. Tadalafil is not only intended as an erection aid, but is also used for other conditions in which blood vessels and muscle relaxation play a role.
Here are the three main applications:
1. Tadalafil for erectile dysfunction (impotence)
Tadalafil is known worldwide as an erectile dysfunction drug. By improving blood flow to the penis, it helps men with erectile dysfunction to experience a satisfying sex life again.
Benefits of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction:
- Works for up to 36 hours, allowing for more spontaneous sex without time pressure
- Less sensitive to timing than, for example, sildenafil
- Suitable for men who want to have sex more than once within 24–36 hours
➡️ What is tadalafil in this case? A powerful and long-lasting erection support.
2. Tadalafil for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Tadalafil is also used to treat benign prostate enlargement, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It reduces symptoms such as:
- Frequent urination
- Nighttime urination
- Difficulty starting the urine stream
By relaxing the muscle cells in the bladder and prostate, tadalafil improves urine flow.
➡️ What is tadalafil in this case? A dual-action drug for prostate complaints and erection problems.
3. Tadalafil in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)
In lower doses, tadalafil is prescribed to patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs). It helps relax the blood vessels in the lungs, improving blood flow and reducing the workload on the heart.
🩺 Please note: This application is available by prescription only and is used in different dosages than for erectile dysfunction.
How to use Tadalafil? Dosage and tips for optimal effect
To properly understand “what is tadalafil and how do you use it?”, it is important to know that this drug can be taken in two ways: occasionally (before sexual activity) or daily (with chronic use).
1. Occasional use of tadalafil (such as Cialis 10mg or 20mg)
Most men take tadalafil when they expect to have sexual activity. You take the tablet about 30 to 45 minutes before sex. Because tadalafil works for up to 36 hours, you have a long window of time in which the effect lasts.
🕒 Recommended dosage:
- Start with 10 mg
- If necessary, increase to 20 mg
- Maximum 1 tablet per 24 hours
Tip: take the tablet with water, preferably on an empty stomach for a faster effect.
2. Use Tadalafil daily (e.g. 2.5mg or 5mg)
Some men take a low dose of tadalafil daily. This maintains a baseline level in your blood, so you can be sexually active at any time – without having to plan.
🕒 Daily dosage:
- 2.5 mg or 5 mg per day
- Always take at the same time
- Also works for men with BPH (enlarged prostate)
➡️ What is tadalafil in this context? A daily support for spontaneity and relief of urinary complaints.
3. Combining Tadalafil with Food, Alcohol and Other Factors
- Tadalafil works independently of food, but a heavy meal may delay the onset of action
- Moderate alcohol consumption is allowed, but excessive alcohol inhibits the effect and increases side effects
- Never take multiple PDE5 inhibitors at the same time (e.g. tadalafil + sildenafil)
- Avoid grapefruit (juice) as it inhibits the breakdown of tadalafil and may increase side effects
Side Effects, Safety and FAQs about Tadalafil
Now that you know what tadalafil is, how it works, and what it is used for, it is important to also consider the possible side effects and safety of this medication. Like any medication, tadalafil can cause side effects — although they are usually mild and temporary.
Common side effects of Tadalafil:
Most men experience no or only mild side effects. The most common are:
- Headache
- Muscle pain (especially in the legs or back)
- Stuffy nose
- Hot flashes or feeling warm
- Stomach upset or acid reflux
- Dizziness
These side effects are usually mild and disappear on their own within a few hours.
Serious side effects (rare):
- Prolonged erection (>4 hours – priapism)
- Chest pain or heart rhythm disturbances
- Sudden loss of vision or hearing
- Severe allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing)
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
When should you not use tadalafil?
- When using nitrate medication for heart problems
- In case of serious liver or kidney problems
- For heart problems where sexual activity is discouraged
- In case of hypersensitivity to tadalafil or any other ingredient
- When using recreational substances such as poppers (dangerous interaction!)
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Tadalafil
- What exactly is tadalafil?
Tadalafil is an erectile dysfunction drug that lasts up to 36 hours and is used for erectile dysfunction and prostate problems. - How long does tadalafil work?
Average 24 to 36 hours per dose. - Does tadalafil also work without sexual stimulation?
No. Like other PDE5 inhibitors, it only works when you are aroused. - Is tadalafil better than Viagra?
It depends on your preference. Tadalafil works longer, Viagra works faster. - Can I take tadalafil daily?
Yes, at a dosage of 2.5 or 5 mg per day this is safe for long-term use. - What if it doesn't work?
Make sure you take it correctly. Otherwise, consult your doctor about the dosage. - Can I drink alcohol with tadalafil?
One glass won't do any harm, but excessive alcohol consumption will reduce the effect. - Is tadalafil suitable for the elderly?
Yes, provided the doctor approves it based on your health. - Can I combine tadalafil with Kamagra or sildenafil?
No. You should not combine PDE5 inhibitors. Choose one at a time. - Where can I buy tadalafil without a prescription?
At reliable online stores such as Kamagra-Original.eu you can order generic versions without a prescription.
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