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Tadalafil

Brand names: Cialis, Adcirca

Tadalafil treats erectile dysfunction and symptoms of an enlarged prostate. It lasts up to 36 hours.

Brand namesCialis, Adcirca
Type of medicinePDE5 inhibitor
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It can be taken before sex or as a low daily dose.

What it's used for

  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Enlarged prostate (BPH) symptoms
  • Pulmonary arterial hypertension (Adcirca)

How to take it

  • Take it with or without food.
  • Take as needed before sex or once daily, as prescribed. Don't take it more than once a day.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Headache
  • Indigestion
  • Back or muscle pain
  • Flushing
  • Stuffy nose
Call 911An erection that's painful or lasts more than 4 hours
Call 911Chest pain, fainting, or dizziness during sex
Call 911Sudden vision loss
Call your provider todaySudden hearing loss

Warnings

  • Ask your provider if your heart is healthy enough for sex.
  • Only buy from a licensed pharmacy.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Never take with nitrates or riociguat; blood pressure can drop dangerously.
  • Alpha blockers can add to dizziness.
  • Some antifungals, antibiotics, and HIV medicines raise its level.
  • Heavy drinking adds to dizziness and low blood pressure.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not used for ED in women. Adcirca: talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

If you take it daily, take it when you remember, but not twice in one day. If you take it as needed, there's no schedule to keep.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.