Tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor. It helps relax the blood vessels supplying the penis, allowing increased blood flow during sexual stimulation. This can make it easier to achieve and maintain an erection.

The usual starting dose is 10mg, taken at least 30 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. Swallow the tablet with water and do not take more than one dose per day. Always follow the instructions provided by your prescriber.

Tadalafil may remain effective for up to 36 hours. This does not mean that you will have an erection for 36 hours. It means you may be able to achieve an erection during that period when sexually stimulated.

The usual starting dose for when-required tadalafil is 10mg. A prescriber may consider 20mg if 10mg is not sufficiently effective and the higher dose is suitable for you. Do not increase the dose without clinical advice.

Tadalafil can generally be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet with water and follow the directions provided with your medicine.

Small amounts of alcohol may not affect tadalafil, but excessive alcohol can make it harder to achieve an erection and increase side effects such as dizziness, headache, a faster heartbeat or low blood pressure.

Common side effects can include headache, indigestion, flushing, nasal congestion, back pain and muscle aches. Read the patient information leaflet for the complete list. Seek urgent medical help for chest pain, sudden loss of vision or hearing, or a painful erection lasting more than four hours.

Tadalafil must not be taken with nitrate medicines for chest pain or recreational nitrates known as “poppers”. It may also be unsuitable with certain medicines or medical conditions. Complete the consultation accurately and tell the prescriber about your health and everything you take.

Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis. Generic tadalafil works in the same way and contains the same active ingredient, although its manufacturer, appearance, packaging and inactive ingredients may differ.

Tadalafil does not cure erectile dysfunction. It temporarily helps you achieve and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated. Persistent or unexplained erectile dysfunction should be discussed with your GP because it can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition.

Do not take an extra dose or combine tadalafil with another erectile dysfunction medicine. Check that you followed the instructions and allowed sufficient time for it to work. If it remains ineffective, speak to a pharmacist, prescriber or GP for advice rather than increasing the dose yourself.