Tadalafil

Tadalafil blocks the PDE5 enzyme, allowing cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) to build up and the blood vessels in the penis to relax, which improves blood flow during sexual stimulation. As with other PDE5 inhibitors, sexual arousal is required for it to work. A notable feature of tadalafil is its long duration of action, which can extend up to around 36 hours and has led to it sometimes being referred to as the 'weekend' treatment. It generally takes effect within roughly half an hour to an hour.

Tadalafil is taken by mouth, either before anticipated sexual activity or, in some cases, as a low daily dose, at the dose advised by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, and unlike some similar medicines its effect is not strongly influenced by meals. Because of its long duration of action, no more than one dose should be taken in any 24-hour period. Always follow the patient information leaflet and the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.

Common (usually mild and temporary):

• Headache
• Flushing
• Indigestion
• Back pain
• Muscle aches
• Nasal congestion

• Must NOT be taken with nitrate medicines for angina or with nitric-oxide donors such as 'poppers', because of the risk of a serious fall in blood pressure.
• Use with caution if you have heart or blood-vessel disease, or if your doctor has advised against sexual activity.
• Tell your doctor about any liver or kidney problems, as the dose may need to be adjusted.
• Caution is needed with low blood pressure and with alpha-blockers or other blood-pressure-lowering medicines.
• Alcohol can add to a lowering of blood pressure and may cause dizziness.
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may affect how the medicine works and are best avoided.
• Not intended for use by women, children or anyone under 18 years of age.

Store in the original packaging at room temperature, out of the sight and reach of children, and do not use after the expiry date.