How Long Does Cialis Stay in Your System 

If you’ve been researching treatments for Erectile Dysfunction (ED), you’ve likely encountered medications like Cialis. 

You probably have questions about what differentiates this drug from its counterparts like Viagra. 

While there are several differences between Cialis (including its generic form, Tadalafil) and Viagra (Sildenafil), the most significant distinction is their duration of action.

While Cialis can be used in that manner or as a daily medication, Viagra is typically taken shortly before engaging in sexual activity. 

While the duration of Cialis in the human body lasts about 36 hours, it can be affected by many factors such as diet, dosage, and alcohol consumption. 

You may also be curious about how to take Cialis and when to take it, and we’ll provide answers to all these questions below. 

How long does Cialis last in your body

The duration of how long Cialis stays in your system depends on two key factors: dosage and usage. 

Cialis stands out among FDA-approved PDE5 inhibitors available at pharmacies because of its notably extended effectiveness. 

This makes it a common choice for those seeking a prolonged response to ED. 

In contrast to medications like Viagra, which typically work for a few hours post-ingestion, a Tadalafil can maintain its effectiveness for up to 36 hours.

As per FDA guidelines, Cialis can be used in two ways: taken once daily with doses ranging from 2.5 to 5 mg tablets or used as needed with doses ranging from 5 to 20 mg tablets. 

In both scenarios, Cialis’s effects may persist for up to 36 hours. 

However, it’s crucial to stay within a once-daily dosage to avoid the full 36-hour duration, as an extended erection can be unsafe and lead to Priapism, a rare side effect of ED drugs.

So, to answer your question, “how long does Cialis stay in your system?” 

According to the National Library of Medicine, the mean terminal half-life of Tadalafil, indicating the time it takes for your body to eliminate half of the medication, is approximately 17.5 hours, 

This is slightly less than half of the previously mentioned 36-hour timeframe.

While occasional resources suggest taking Cilias in 72 hours, most individuals will typically experience effects lasting up to 36 hours with a properly tailored dose.

How should you take Cialis

When you receive Cialis from your pharmacist, it will come with a guideline leaflet detailing how to use it. 

Cialis is taken as needed or once daily, but only a single dose within a day.

Should you use Cialis before intimate activities, ensure you consume it a minimum of 30 minutes beforehand. 

If you’re on a regimen, take it consistently around the same hour daily.

It’s advisable to weigh the advantages and drawbacks of each usage pattern with your physician.

Taking Cialis every day is a good choice because it keeps patients satisfied and can protect blood vessels. 

It can also make erectile function better over time, even after you stop taking it. 

Studies show that about 50% of men with ED who didn’t respond to other treatments may get better results with daily Cialis.

Safety factors to consider when taking Cialis

Generally, Tadalafil has limited side effects unless mixed with certain drugs. 

When paired with specific blood pressure medications, it can lead to a major drop in blood pressure. 

Using it alongside recreational Nitrates is strictly contraindicated.

If there’s a life-threatening issue, waiting at least 48 hours after taking Tadalafil is essential before considering certain emergency medications, and monitoring is crucial. 

Tadalafil can further lower blood pressure when taken with other blood pressure meds. 

It’s vital to limit its dose when also taking drugs that affect its metabolism.

It’s noteworthy that those with heart conditions have been typically left out of Tadalafil studies due to safety uncertainties. 

If someone feels chest pain after using it, they should promptly seek emergency care. 

Your regular behaviors, like smoking and drinking alcohol, can influence Tadalafil’s effectiveness.

Drinking a lot of alcohol while taking Tadalafil can cause Orthostatic Hypotension, leading to dizziness when you stand up.

And because Tadalafil lasts longer in the system compared to some alternatives, users should be aware that they’ll experience its effects for a more extended period. 

Always consult with a healthcare professional about medications and their potential interactions.

Your overall health, including factors like hydration and physical activity, can also affect how long Cialis remains effective.

Staying hydrated and being physically active can support the medication’s effectiveness. 

Final Words

Cialis stands out among ED medications for its extended effectiveness, lasting up to 36 hours. 

However, the actual duration varies based on dosage and individual factors. 

Its mean half-life is approximately 17.5 hours, with peak concentration reached within 30 minutes to six hours. 

Lower doses wear off more quickly. 

Age, health conditions, diet, medications, and alcohol intake can influence how long Cialis remains effective. 

Following prescribed dosages and seeking medical advice for personalized guidance on its usage and duration is crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

• FDA.GOV
• Drugs.com
• American Family Physician