What Is Tadalafil Used for and How Does It Work?

Key Points

• Tadalafil is a medication used primarily to treat erectile dysfunction
• It can also be used to treat an enlarged prostate
• Tadalafil works by improving blood flow to the penis, allowing users to achieve and maintain an erection

Tadalafil is a prescription medication commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) — a condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It’s also known under the brand name Cialis, and generic versions such as Tadalafil tablets are widely available in the UK.

Tadalafil belongs to a group of medicines known as PDE5 inhibitors, which work by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This makes it easier to get and keep an erection.

The main use of Tadalafil is for erectile dysfunction (ED).

It can also be prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — an enlarged prostate — and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), though ED remains its most common indication.

Tadalafil works by blocking an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5).

Here’s what that means in simple terms:

• When a man is sexually aroused, the body releases nitric oxide in the penis.
• This triggers the production of a chemical called cGMP, which relaxes the smooth muscles in blood vessel walls.
• As a result, more blood flows into the penis, causing an erection.
• PDE5 is the enzyme that normally breaks down cGMP.
• By blocking PDE5, Tadalafil helps cGMP stay active for longer, maintaining better blood flow and allowing a firm, sustained erection.

Tadalafil does not cause an erection on its own — sexual stimulation is still required for it to work.

Tadalafil starts working within 30 minutes after taking it.

Unlike some other ED treatments, it can remain effective for up to 36 hours, which is why it’s often referred to as the “weekend pill.”

This doesn’t mean you’ll have a continuous erection for 36 hours — rather, you’ll have an increased ability to achieve an erection naturally during that period when sexually aroused.

Tadalafil can be taken in two main ways, depending on lifestyle and preference:

1. On-Demand Tadalafil

• Taken as needed, around 30 minutes before sexual activity.
• Effects can last up to 36 hours.
• Usual starting dose: 10 mg, which can be increased to 20 mg or reduced to 5 mg depending on response.

2. Daily Tadalafil

• Taken once every day at the same time, regardless of sexual activity.
• Provides continuous coverage — ideal for men who prefer spontaneity.
• Usual doses: 2.5 mg or 5 mg daily.

Your doctor or prescriber will advise which Tadalafil dosage best suits your needs.

Tadalafil is one of the most popular and effective treatments for ED in the UK — and for good reason:

Tadalafil can be taken by most adult men experiencing erectile dysfunction, as long as it’s prescribed by a healthcare professional.

However, it may not be suitable if you:

• Take nitrate medication for chest pain or heart problems
• Have serious heart or liver conditions
• Have recently had a heart attack or stroke
• Have low blood pressure or uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Have conditions such as sickle cell anaemia or leukaemia, which may increase the risk of a prolonged erection (priapism)

Always complete a health assessment before ordering to ensure Tadalafil is safe for you.

Like all medications, Tadalafil can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Most are mild and short-lived:

• Headache
• Facial flushing
• Indigestion
• Blocked or runny nose
• Muscle or back pain

Seek medical advice if you experience chest pain, sudden vision or hearing loss, or an erection lasting longer than 4 hours.

The standout features are that Tadalafil is long lasting and provides the option for daily use, making it ideal for men who prefer not to plan around medication timing.

Tadalafil is a highly effective, safe, and convenient treatment for erectile dysfunction.
It works by improving blood flow to the penis, helping men achieve and maintain erections naturally during sexual stimulation.

Whether taken as needed or daily, Tadalafil offers flexibility, reliability, and confidence — helping restore both sexual performance and self-assurance.