Tadalafil (Generic Cialis) Tadalafil is a drug which is used to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED). It works by enhancing the blood flow to the penis resulting in an erection. There are many reasons men will suffer with ED which will be discussed in brief below. Tadalafil is the generic name given to the more commonly known drug Cialis, it is pharmaceutically equivalent and works in the exact same way. Tadalafil is a more cost effective option for those who are accustomed to using Cialis but would like a cheaper alternative. It has the same duration of action and works as quickly as the branded version Cialis. Some may prefer to use Cialis and that’s also perfectly fine. Whichever you decide to go for it comes down to personal choice but you can be sure that we are here to help you. What Causes Erectile Dysfunction? There are many causes for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) the most common causes are listed here below: (These will help you to understand why you may be suffering with ED.) Lifestyle – Quite often our lifestyle choices can impact our sexual health. Obesity, alcohol and smoking can affect the ability to achieve and sustain an erection. Narrowing Blood Vessels – Health conditions such as Diabetes, High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol can all lead to narrowed vessels, leading to an insufficient blood supply to the penis. Medicinal Causes- There are some medications which may be prescribed to you by your doctor that can cause ED as a side effect. These include medications for depression, prostate illness, psychotic illness and some heart medication. Nerve Problems – Some conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis, which affect the nervous system in the body, can also lead to ED. Psychological Conditions – Not all causes are physical in nature, sometimes it can be associated with the mental health of the person. Anxiety and stress can affect libido therefore affecting the ability to sustain an erection. How is it used? There are two ways to use Tadalafil or Cialis depending on the type of treatment you are aiming to choose. Both Tadalafil and Cialis come in the following strengths 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg and 20mg oral tablets. In order for the treatment to be effective sexual stimulation is required, this treatment does not allow the user to attain an erection without it.  The 2.5mg and 5mg strengths are used as a ‘One-a-day’ pill, this means that unlike conventional ED treatments used on a ‘when required’ basis these are taken every day regardless of any sexual activity. This treatment is for those who anticipate a frequent use of Cialis or Tadalafil, frequent use would be considered as twice weekly or more.  Some men may prefer this treatment as it will feel more organic and natural as they won’t have to take a pill before engaging in sexual activity. These pills can be taken at any time of day but should be taken at the same time each day. The 10mg and 20mg tablets are taken on a ‘when required’ basis. One tablet is taken at least 30 minutes prior to anticipated sexual activity. The ‘when required’ doses are not intended for daily use, as mentioned above and if you are using 10mg or 20mg doses on more than 2 occasions per week then consider changing to the ‘once-a-day’ pills. The max dose of these tablets is once per day and this should not be exceeded. Which strength should I start with? Tadalafil and Cialis come in 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg and 20mg tablet strengths. The choice of strength relies upon two main factors; how often you will be using it, and your tolerance to the medication. If you are planning on using it on a when required basis (less than 2 times per week) then we suggest you start with the 10mg tablet. This will be sufficient for most, however if you then find out that you are not getting the desired effect you can increase the dose to 20mg. On the other hand, if you had started with the 20mg tablet and the side effects are intolerable then you can drop to the 10mg strength. You can only take this medicine once a day. The effects last for up to 36 hours, and can work in as quick as 16 minutes, but the average time of action is 30 minutes. This does not mean that you will sustain an erection for 36 hours, but if stimulated you can still achieve one 36 hours after taking the tablet. However If your erection lasts 4 hours or longer you need to seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY. Please note that sexual stimulation is required. If you are planning on using it on a longer term basis (more than 2 times a week) then we would recommend you chose the ‘Once-a-day’ dose. We advise that you start with the 2.5mg dose, and if you find that this strength is not sufficient it can been increased to the 5mg tablets. This dosage means that you will not need to take it before your anticipated sexual activity, the concentrations of the drug in your body stay at a constant level allowing you to achieve an erection at any time with sexual stimulation. This allows the user to have a more natural experience in that they don’t have to pre-determine their medicine use. Can I use Cialis or Tadalafil after I’ve had a drink? As with any medication, alcohol is not advised. However we understand that sometimes situations regarding erectile dysfunction are such that alcohol can be involved. In these cases, alcohol should not drastically affect how Cialis or Tadalafil works, however you may experience a rise in side effects. Two observed side effects which you may experience are dizziness and low blood pressure.   It should also be pointed out that prolonged alcohol use can be a causative factor of erectile dysfunction. If you do plan on drinking try to limit your alcohol intake to 2-3 units, which is a pint of medium strength larger or two 25ml (40%) measures of a spirit. What are the side effects? The most common side effects of Cialis or Tadalafil are as follows: Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people but more than 1 in 100) Headache Back pain Muscle ache Pain in arms and legs Facial flushing Nasal congestion Indigestion If you experience any side effects from using Tadalafil or Cialis it is important to consult your Doctor, Pharmacist or Nurse. There is a full list of side effects which will come inside each box of Tadalafil and Cialis, please read this before use.