Tadalafil and Alcohol: Is it Safe to Drink?

• You can safely drink a moderate amount of alcohol whilst using Tadalafil
• Drinking too much can cause dizziness and light headedness
• Heavy drinking can reduce Tadalafil’s effectiveness

Tadalafil (the active ingredient in Cialis) is a prescription medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping men achieve and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated.

If you’re taking Tadalafil, you may wonder whether it’s safe to drink alcohol at the same time.

Here’s what you need to know about mixing Tadalafil and alcohol, potential risks, and how to stay safe.

Yes – you can drink alcohol in moderation while using Tadalafil. However, drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, low blood pressure, and fainting.

Tadalafil causes blood vessels to relax and widen to improve blood flow. Alcohol has a similar effect, so combining the two can sometimes lead to a drop in blood pressure (known as hypotension).

If you drink heavily, this can make you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or even cause fainting — especially when standing up quickly.

A small or moderate amount of alcohol is unlikely to cause issues for most men. This means up to 2 units (around a single pint of beer or a medium glass of wine).

Avoid drinking more than 3-4 units in one go, as higher amounts can:

• Increase the chance of dizziness or headaches
• Reduce the effectiveness of Tadalafil
• Affect your ability to get or maintain an erection
• Lead to dehydration and tiredness the following day

In short, moderation is key – a small drink is usually fine, but heavy drinking may reduce both safety and effectiveness.

Drinking excessive alcohol (for example, 5 or more units) while taking Tadalafil can cause symptoms such as:

• Dizziness or feeling faint
• Low blood pressure (light-headedness when standing)
• Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
• Headache or flushing
• Feeling tired or weak

In rare cases, it may also increase the risk of a prolonged erection (priapism); and may also heighten other side effects of Tadalafil such as indigestion or nasal congestion.

If you experience severe dizziness, chest pain, or a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours, seek urgent medical attention.

Yes – alcohol can reduce Tadalafil’s effectiveness.

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, meaning it can interfere with the mental and physical stimulation required to get an erection.

Even if Tadalafil is working properly in your system, being intoxicated can reduce sexual performance and sensitivity.

• Limit alcohol intake to 1-2 units when taking Tadalafil
• Avoid drinking heavily before sexual activity
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
• Don’t mix Tadalafil with recreational drugs or energy drinks containing stimulants
• If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down until the feeling passes

You should avoid alcohol completely if you:

• Have low blood pressure or heart problems
• Take nitrates (used for chest pain or angina)
• Experience dizziness or fainting when drinking small amounts
• Are on high doses of Tadalafil or taking it daily

If in doubt, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for personalised advice about how to use Tadalafil safely.

Tadalafil and alcohol can generally be used together in moderation.

A small drink (1-2 units) is usually safe, but heavy drinking can cause dizziness, low blood pressure, and reduce effectiveness.

To get the best results from your treatment – and reduce side effects – limit alcohol, stay hydrated, and always use the prescribed dose of Tadalafil provided by your prescriber.