How Long Does It Take for Cialis to Take Effect

How long does Cialis last? How long before it kicks in?

Last updated

19th August 2021

In 30 seconds…

Cialis is a clinically-approved erectile dysfunction drug, available to buy online from accredited pharmacies. You can also buy the unbranded version – which is called Tadalafil. Tadalafil is the active ingredient in both drugs. They are both PDE5 inhibitors; meaning they help relax blood vessels in the penis, encouraging blood flow, making it easier for men to get, and keep, an erection.

Cialis is often called the "weekend pill" as it's effects can last up to 36 hours, meaning your sex life can have a certain amount of sponteneity not possible with other erectile dysfunction drugs. Tadalafil often takes less than 30 minutes to take effect, which makes it quicker than other ED drugs. But on average, it can take up to 2 hours for the full effects to take hold. This differs for every man.

If you're looking for information on Cialis, it's likely you're having a bit of trouble in the bedroom. And we're sorry to hear that. Unfortunately, erectile dysfunction (or ED) is a common problem, affecting over 150 million men worldwide. Unhealthy lifestyles associated with modern life – like being overweight, stressed, sleep-deprived, drinking too much alcohol, and living a generally sedentary life, can all contribute to a man's likelihood of developing ED. So the numbers are on the rise.

Thankfully, these days, there are a raft of clinically-approved ED drug treatments available to buy from accredited online pharmacies. You can seek professional help, and get your prescription delivered directly to your door, without the need for an awkward convo with your doctor.

Cialis has been on the market since 2003, and the unbranded version, named simply Tadalafil, entered the market in 2017. Tadalafil is the name of the active ingredient in both drugs, meaning they both work in the same way, with the same dosage, effects and side effects.

Tadalafil is a type of drug called a PDE5 inhibitor. To get an erection, a chemical called Nitric Oxide is released, which enables the production of another substance called cGMP.

cGMP controls the relaxation and stimulation of blood vessels within the penis, and that allows sufficient blood flow to get an erection, and contracts the vessels to keep the blood there. PDE5 destroys cGMP, so a PDE5 inhibitor drug stops that, to ensure the cGMP can do its job properly and help keep you up.

How to Take Cialis (Tadalafil)

So, first up, it's important to know that Cialis is not an aphrodisiac. You have to be sexually aroused for Cialis, Tadalafil, or any other ED drug (e.g. Sildenafil), to work. So you'll need to get in the mood, relax and let the pill do it's thing… before you can do your thing.

Cialis isn't affected by fatty foods or mild alcohol intake, so you can take it at any time of day, however you've previously indulged. However, it's important to note that excessive alcohol consumption is likely to affect your ability to perform. In fact, the mixture of the two – alcohol and Cialis – can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. So, go go easy on the booze if you're hoping for a good time!

The usual dose of Cialis (Tadalafil) is 10mg, however this can be adjusted to anything between 5-20mg, depending on your circumstance. If you're in doubt about the right dose, speak to a Manual clinician.

Cialis can be known as the "weekend drug" because its effects can last up to 36 hours. By that, we don't mean you'll have an erection for 36 hours – that would be dangerous, not to mention inconvenient. But if you're turned on, you'll be ready to get busy at any time within those 36 hours. So if you thought your days of spontaneity were over, think again – Cialis could be the treatment for you and your ED.

How Long Does it Take for Cialis to Kick In?

So, exactly when should you take Cialis, and how long does it take for the Tadalafil to kick in? Well, the effects are different and personal to every man, but the time-frame is usually along similar lines…

On average, it can take 2 hours for the Tadalafil to take effect. That said, some men have reported the effects kicking in after just 15 minutes! And plenty of Cialis users will be more successful in achieving an erection after just 30 minutes. In comparison, Viagra or generic unbranded Sildenafil will need to be taken about an hour before anticipated sexual intercourse to give the best chance of effectiveness.

What to Know Before Taking Cialis

If, after taking Cialis, Tadalafil, or any other ED drug, you find yourself with a painful erection for 4 hours or more, seek urgent medical advice. You may be suffering from Priapism; a vascular condition whereby blood cannot drain from the penis as normal, despite lack of stimulation. The sound of a never-ending erection might sound fun to some people, but it can actually cause lasting damage to your penis.

Cialis, as with any drug, does come with some side effects, however the likelihood of suffering from any negative effects is thankfully really low. If you're otherwise healthy, the side effects shouldn't put you off attempting to treat your ED with Cialis. Common side effects can include flushing, headaches, nasal congestion, back or muscle pain, and heartburn.

However, if you're suffering from one of several serious conditions, Cialis may not be the right treatment for you. If you have high or low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, or if you've recently suffered from a stroke or heart attack, you should definitely seek medical advice before committing to Cialis.

Equally, if you have any kind of heart condition, you need to be careful – medications for heart disease are often from the nitrate family, and those and Cialis do not mix well. Some epilepsy and anti-seizure meds can be problematic as well, so our Manual clinicians are here to help if you have any questions.

Key Takeaways…

Cialis and Tadalafil are both great ED treatment options if you're looking for a little spontaneity in your sex life. With positive effects in most men who chose this medication, it might be just what you need to get your intimate relationship(s) back on track. You can usually expect Cialis to start working quickly, often within 30 minutes – but of course, this is different for every man.

While we've ensured that everything you read on the Health Centre is medically reviewed and approved, information presented here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor.

Hagenauer Sorpathey1961