Cialis Tablets (10mg & 20mg)

What are Cialis Tablets?

Also known as the ‘weekend pill’, Cialis tablets are an ‘as required’ treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. They contain the active ingredient tadalafil, a longer-lasting version of sildenafil found in Viagra. This works by relaxing the blood vessels that flow into the penis, allowing greater blood flow and a satisfactory erection to be achieved.

How does Cialis work?

Cialis tablets help to alleviate the physical symptoms of erectile dysfunction by enhancing the effects of one of the chemicals released by the body into the penis during sexual arousal. This allows more blood to flow into the penis. It also inhibits the PDE5 enzyme, enhancing the effects of nitric oxide (NO) to cause a chain of chemical reactions that relax blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the penis.

Are Cialis Tablets the same as Viagra?

Although the two work in a similar way and both contain the active ingredient Sildenafil, in Viagra this wears off a lot quicker compared to Cialis tablets. Viagra, therefore, needs to be taken closer to the time of having sex whereas Cialis lasts longer (up to 36 hours) so sex can be a little more spontaneous and natural. This flexibility in dosing makes it a popular choice with men looking for an ED treatment that fits into their life.

Directions

How do you take Cialis?

There are two ways of taking Cialis depending on your needs — this will be discussed with your doctor. 

The options include: 

1. The daily 2.5 or 5mg Cialis tablets that are taken regularly for everyday assistance.
2. The 10mg or 20mg tablets that are taken as and when needed.

You should always follow the directions on the packet or set out by your doctor:

• You should take one Cialis tablet at least 30 minutes before sex.
• Cialis can take up to an hour to take effect and can last for up to 36 hours.
• Do not take more than one Cialis or other treatment for erectile dysfunction (Viagra, Spedra, or Levitra) in a 36-hour period.

Although usually very effective, Cialis may not work for everyone during the first use. In this case, it’s recommended that you try the product on at least 8 separate occasions before trying an alternative treatment such as  Sildenafil, Spedra, or Levitra.

How long does it take to work?

It may take as little as 30 minutes to work but this will vary between people. 

Can you improve ED through lifestyle changes?

Yes, while medical treatments are a great option for improving ED, lifestyle changes can also make a difference. 

Cialis tablets aid in the treatment of the physical symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Some cases of ED, however, are caused by psychological issues such as anxiety or stress. Cialis can help to break the cycle of anxiety associated with being unable to achieve and maintain a satisfactory erection, even if the cause of your ED is psychological.

There are a number of Non-Prescription Alternatives for the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction such as:

• Changes to diet (cutting down alcohol and fat consumption)
• Stopping Smoking
• Improving stress management
• Counselling
• Vacuum Devices (Penis Pumps)

Side Effects

What are the possible side effects?

As with all medication, there are a few possible side effects although this is rare.

Reported side effects include:

• Headaches
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea
• Stuffy nose
• Skin rashes
• Indigestion.

If you experience any of the above side effects you should seek professional medical advice from your GP or local pharmacist. In a medical emergency go to a nearby Accident & Emergency centre.

As with all medicines, Cialis tablets may cause side effects although this is uncommon. The most common side effects for those taking Cialis tablets are:

• Headache
• Facial flushing
• Indigestion
• Nasal congestion
• Dizziness
• Erections lasting more than four hours

Furthermore, to avoid other symptoms you should not take Cialis alongside medicines called ‘nitrates’, which are often prescribed for chest pain or use other ED medicines at the same time. If you do experience any of the above symptoms you should stop taking the medication and seek professional advice from a medical expert and in emergency situations go to your nearest A&E department.

Warnings 

How many tablets can you take?

In a 24-hour period, do not take more than one tablet.

Who shouldn’t use Cialis?

Cialis 20mg Tablets may not be suitable for everyone. If any of the following applies consult with a medical professional before using the treatment:

• You have heart issues like angina, heart failure, and irregular heartbeats.
• You’ve had a heart attack or a stroke in the last six months.
• You have hypertension or hypotension.
• You have liver or kidney disease.
• You have haemophilia.
• You have sickle cell anaemia or leukaemia.
• The penis has a physical deformity.
• You have retinitis pigmentosa.
• You’ve got a stomach ulcer.

When taking Cialis, you should avoid using the recreational drug ‘Poppers,’ also known as ‘Aromas’ or ‘Room Odourisers,’ as these contain nitrates and can have dangerous effects on blood pressure.

Alternatives

Are there alternative treatments available?

ED can be caused by both medical and psychological problems so finding the best treatment for you depends on your specific cause. If you have tried Cialis on eight different occasions and still aren’t seeing an improvement in your ED then you may need to try a different product or a non-prescription alternative such as:

• Improving your diet by cutting down alcohol and fat consumption
• Stopping Smoking
• Reducing Stress
• Counselling
• Vacuum Devices (penis pumps)