Does Tadalafil (Cialis) Lower Blood Pressure?

• Tadalafil can cause a mild, temporary drop in blood pressure because it relaxes blood vessels, but this effect is usually not noticeable in healthy men.
• Serious drops in blood pressure can occur if Tadalafil is taken with nitrates, “poppers,” or certain medication such as alpha-blockers – these combinations should be avoided.
• Most people with high blood pressure can safely take Tadalafil if their condition is well controlled.

Tadalafil, best known by the brand name Cialis, is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and sometimes benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow – but this mechanism can also have an effect on blood pressure.

When blood vessels relax, blood flows more easily, particularly to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain an erection.

This vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) can cause a small drop in blood pressure, especially soon after taking the tablet.

Yes – Tadalafil can slightly lower blood pressure because it widens blood vessels throughout the body.

However, in most healthy men, this effect is mild and temporary and doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. Clinical studies show that Tadalafil typically reduces blood pressure by around 2-4 mmHg, which is not enough to cause concern for most users.

You are unlikely to feel dizzy or light-headed unless you are taking other medicines that also lower blood pressure, or nitrates used to treat chest pain (angina).

Tadalafil can cause a significant drop in blood pressure if it’s taken with certain medicines or in specific health conditions.

Avoid Tadalafil if you:

• Take nitrate medications (e.g., glyceryl trinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate) – the combination can cause a dangerous fall in blood pressure
• Take “poppers” (amyl nitrite or butyl nitrite) – these act similarly to nitrates
• Take alpha-blockers (e.g., doxazosin, tamsulosin) – these can enhance Tadalafil’s blood pressure-lowering effect
• Have uncontrolled low blood pressure (hypotension) or severe heart disease
• Consuming alcohol in large amounts, as both can cause blood pressure to drop. A moderate amount of alcohol with Tadalafil is safe.

If you take any blood pressure medication (such as ramipril, amlodipine, bisoprolol, or losartan), you should tell your doctor or pharmacist before using Tadalafil.

In most cases, Tadalafil is still safe, but your dose may need to be adjusted.

Although uncommon, some people may experience symptoms of low blood pressure, especially when standing up or if they are dehydrated.

Watch out for:

• Dizziness or feeling faint
• Light-headedness when standing
• Blurred vision
• Tiredness or weakness

If these symptoms persist or are severe, seek medical advice before continuing treatment.

In most cases, yes – Tadalafil is safe to take with most common blood pressure medicines.

Studies show that Tadalafil doesn’t cause additional blood pressure drops in people who are well-controlled on antihypertensive therapy.

However, low blood pressure is a listed side effect of Tadalafil and you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Tadalafil, especially if:

• You take more than one blood pressure medication
• You have recently changed doses
• You have a history of fainting or dizziness

In some cases, your doctor or pharmacist may start you on the lowest dose of Tadalafil to see how you respond. If you tolerate it well and do not experience side effects like low blood pressure, the dose can be increased gradually if needed.

You should avoid Tadalafil if you:

• Have low blood pressure (below 90/50 mmHg)
• Have unstable angina or severe heart problems
• Take nitrates or poppers
• Have had a recent stroke or heart attack

If you’re unsure, your doctor or pharmacist can assess whether Tadalafil is safe for you to take, based on your medical history.

Tadalafil can cause a mild and temporary reduction in blood pressure, but this is rarely an issue for most men.

The main concern arises when Tadalafil is combined with other medicines that lower blood pressure, particularly nitrates or alpha-blockers.

If you’re taking blood pressure medication, Tadalafil is usually safe and well-tolerated – but always check with your prescriber before starting treatment.

Does Tadalafil affect blood pressure long-term?

No, Tadalafil does not lower blood pressure permanently. The effects are short-lived and wear off as the medicine is broken down in the body.

Is Tadalafil safe for people with high blood pressure?

Yes, most people with high blood pressure can safely take Tadalafil – but it should be prescribed by a doctor who is aware of your condition and medication list.

Can Tadalafil cause dizziness?

In some people, Tadalafil can cause mild dizziness, especially when combined with alcohol or other medicines that lower blood pressure.