How Long Does Tadalafil Last? Timeline and Effects
If you’ve been researching treatment options for erectile dysfunction (ED), you’ve likely encountered names like Cialis and Viagra.
You might have questions about the differences between these medications.
One of the key distinctions is their duration of effectiveness.
Cialis, including its generic form called Tadalafil, stands out because of how long it lasts compared to Viagra (also known as Sildenafil).
Another advantage of Tadalafil is that its absorption is not influenced by food, allowing it to be taken before, during, or after a meal.
Tadalafil, often referred to as ‘the weekend pill,’ is renowned for its extended duration of action.
However, you might be wondering: how long does Tadalafil last?
In this article, we will delve into Tadalafil’s efficacy, mechanism of action, and address related questions.
How long does Tadalafil last: Duration of action
As per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Tadalafil can have a duration of action of up to 36 hours.
Thus, Tadalafil remains active in your system for as long as 36 hours following its ingestion.
This prolonged effectiveness is the reason why Tadalafil is commonly referred to as ‘the weekend pill.’
It might take Tadalafil two hours to start working, but its strength can decrease over time.
It stays in your body for that whole 36-hour period before it goes away completely.
After that, it might not work anymore.
In simple terms, if you’re stimulated, Tadalafil can help you have an erection for up to 36 hours after taking a single pill.
How does Tadalafil work
Tadalafil comes in tablet form and can be taken with or without food.
It belongs to a group of drugs called Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) Inhibitors.
Its main job is to block the action of the PDE5 enzyme and reduce the amount of cGMP in the blood, which is what keeps the penis erect.
Function of cGMP (cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate)
Acts as a signaling molecule in various physiological processes.Plays a key role in relaxing smooth muscle cells.
Tadalafil has a slower absorption rate compared to other available PDE5 inhibitors.
On average, it takes about 2 hours for Tadalafil to reach its maximum concentration in the body.
Tadalafil essentially opens up the blood vessels in the penis by blocking PDE5.
As a result, the penis gets more blood flowing to it.
This increased blood flow to the penile area is what helps you achieve and maintain an erection.
How to take Tadalafil
The following points entail the recommended dosages and important precautions.
- If you’re using it to treat Erectile Dysfunction, there are two ways to take it: either daily or when you need it
- Your doctor will help you decide which schedule is right for you
For on-demand dosing: A typical starting dose is 10 mg of tadalafil
For once-daily dosing: A lower starting dose of 2.5 mg of tadalafil is usually recommended
- If you’re taking it as needed, you usually take it at least 30 minutes before sex and not more than once in 24 hours
- If you take it daily, you can attempt sex at any time between doses
- Stick to the same time each day if you’re on a regular schedule
- Don’t split the tablets.
- Inform your doctor if you are currently using medications called nitrates, which can include isosorbide dinitrate (Isordil) and nitroglycerin (Minitran, Nitro-Dur, Nitromist, and others)
- Nitrates can come in various forms, like tablets, sublingual (under the tongue) tablets, sprays, patches, pastes, and ointments
- If you’re unsure whether any of your medicines contain nitrates, ask your doctor. In such cases, your doctor will likely advise against taking tadalafil while on these medications
Also, let your doctor know if you are using recreational drugs that contain nitrates, often referred to as ‘poppers,’ such as amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite.
Similar to prescription nitrates, your doctor will likely recommend avoiding tadalafil if you’re using these substances.
How long can Tadalafil last? Factors to know
Several factors can determine how long can Tadalafil last.
These factors encompass age, overall health, eating habits, and lifestyle choices.
Age
Age is a significant factor affecting sexual health.
As you get older, your metabolism tends to slow down, and your immune system may weaken.
A weaker immune system may not fully maximize the benefits of the medication.
Consequently, older individuals might not experience the same level of results as younger ones.
Dose of Medication
The effectiveness of Tadalafil also hinges on the dosage you take.
A higher dosage of Tadalafil is likely to provide longer-lasting effects compared to a lower one.
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Lifestyle
Your daily habits, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, can impact how Tadalafil functions.
Excessive alcohol consumption, when combined with Tadalafil, may lead to a condition called Orthostatic Hypotension, which can cause dizziness upon standing.
Quitting or reducing alcohol, quitting smoking, and addressing other substance abuse issues can contribute to better outcomes when using Tadalafil.
Key takeaway
Among many other ED drugs like Sildenafil and Vardenafil, Tadalafil is an effective option.
One key difference between these drugs is how long they work.
Tadalafil, the generic form of Cialis, lasts much longer than Viagra. It can last up to 36 hours, making it popularly known as ‘the weekend pill.’
Tadalafil works by blocking the PDE5 enzyme and increasing blood flow to the penis, aiding in erections.
It can take 30 minutes to two hours to kick in, and its effects gradually diminish after 36 hours.
Factors affecting its effectiveness include age, dose, and lifestyle.
Age plays a role because as you get older, your metabolism weakens, potentially impacting Tadalafil’s benefits.
Higher doses of Tadalafil last longer.
Remember, factors like smoking and excessive alcohol can also affect how Tadalafil works, so quitting or reducing these habits may improve results.
Consult your doctor for personalized advice and consider safety precautions like avoiding nitrates when using Tadalafil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tadalafil 5 mg, how long does it last?
Tadalafil 5 mg typically remains effective for up to 36 hours, allowing for a more extended window of opportunity for sexual activity compared to other medications.
How long does tadalafil take to work?
Tadalafil generally starts working within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion, though the exact onset can vary based on individual factors and whether it’s taken with or without food. Sexual stimulation is crucial for it to be effective.
Are there any common side effects of Tadalafil?
Common side effects may include headache, upset stomach, back pain, and muscle aches. Consult your doctor if these symptoms persist or worsen.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Tadalafil?
While moderate alcohol consumption is generally safe, excessive alcohol can increase the risk of side effects, including dizziness and low blood pressure. It’s advisable to drink alcohol in moderation when using Tadalafil.
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