Description
What is Tadalafil?
Tadalafil is a prescription treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It contains tadalafil, a clinically proven medicine that helps increase blood flow to the penis, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused.
Unlike daily tadalafil, this treatment is taken when needed before sexual activity. Tadalafil is known for its long duration of action and can remain effective for up to 36 hours, allowing for greater flexibility and spontaneity.
Tadalafil is the generic version of Cialis® and contains the same active ingredient.
Available Strengths
Tadalafil 10mg
Tadalafil 10mg is the usual recommended starting dose for most men using tadalafil on demand. It provides an effective balance between efficacy and tolerability and is often the first strength prescribed following an assessment.
Tadalafil 20mg
Tadalafil 20mg is the highest available strength and may be recommended for men who do not achieve satisfactory results with the 10mg dose. This strength should only be used when advised by a prescriber.
Our clinicians will recommend the most appropriate strength based on your medical history, current medications and response to treatment.
How Does Tadalafil Work?
Tadalafil belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It works by relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.
Tadalafil does not increase sexual desire and only works when sexual arousal is present.
Because tadalafil remains active in the body for longer than many other ED treatments, it allows for greater spontaneity and reduces the need to carefully time sexual activity.
Who Can Use Tadalafil?
Tadalafil may be suitable for:
- Men aged 18 years and over
- Men experiencing erectile dysfunction
- Men seeking a clinically proven ED treatment
- Men looking for a treatment that is taken only when needed
- Men seeking greater spontaneity in their sex life
- Men seeking an alternative to branded Cialis®
Who Should Not Use Tadalafil?
Tadalafil may not be suitable if you:
- Take nitrate medicines for chest pain or heart conditions
- Use nitric oxide donors or recreational drugs known as “poppers”
- Have certain serious heart, liver or blood pressure conditions
- Have been advised to avoid sexual activity
- Have previously experienced an allergic reaction to tadalafil or any of the ingredients
Our prescribing team will assess your suitability before treatment is supplied.
How to Take Tadalafil
- Take one tablet at least 30 minutes before sexual activity
- Swallow the tablet whole with water
- Do not take more than one dose in a 24-hour period
- Follow the advice provided by your prescriber
Tadalafil can be taken with or without food.
Excessive alcohol consumption may reduce the effectiveness of treatment and increase the likelihood of side effects.
Benefits of Tadalafil
- Clinically proven treatment for erectile dysfunction
- Available in 10mg and 20mg strengths
- Contains the same active ingredient as Cialis®
- Taken only when needed
- Long-lasting action of up to 36 hours
- Greater flexibility and spontaneity
- Available through our confidential online consultation service
Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Back pain
- Muscle aches
- Facial flushing
- Nasal congestion
Most side effects are mild and temporary.
Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before taking this medication.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, sudden loss of vision or hearing, or an erection lasting longer than 4 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which tadalafil strength should I choose?
Most men begin treatment with tadalafil 10mg. Depending on how well the medication works and whether side effects occur, your prescriber may recommend increasing the dose to 20mg.
How long does tadalafil take to work?
Tadalafil usually starts working within 30 minutes, although this may vary between individuals. Sexual stimulation is required for the medicine to be effective.
How long does tadalafil last?
Tadalafil can remain effective for up to 36 hours, making it one of the longest-lasting erectile dysfunction treatments available.
Can I take tadalafil with food?
Yes. Tadalafil can be taken with or without food.
Can I drink alcohol while taking tadalafil?
Small amounts of alcohol are unlikely to cause problems. However, excessive alcohol consumption may make it more difficult to achieve an erection and can reduce the effectiveness of treatment.
Is tadalafil the same as Cialis®?
Yes. Tadalafil is the generic version of Cialis® and contains the same active ingredient. It works in the same way and is held to the same quality, safety and effectiveness standards.
Do I need a GP prescription for tadalafil?
No. Tadalafil is a prescription-only medicine but you do not need a GP prescription for it. Our prescribing clinicians can assess and prescribe tadalafil to eligible patients.
Online Erectile Dysfunction Consultation
Before treatment can be supplied, you will need to complete a short online medical questionnaire.
One of our qualified prescribing clinicians will review your information to ensure tadalafil is safe and appropriate for you.
If approved, your treatment will be dispensed by The Kingston Pharmacy team and delivered in discreet packaging directly to your door via Royal Mail. We also offer in-store collection.




