Tadalafil is authorized by Health Canada for the treatment of male sexual function problems, symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. For erectile dysfunction, it helps stimulate the body’s normal response to increase blood flow to the penis.
Tadalafil belongs to a group of medications called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. This class of medication ultimately increases blood flow to the penis by preventing an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type-5 from working too quickly. By controlling the enzyme, Tadalafil helps initiate and prolong erections in men who have difficulty getting or staying erect. Tadalafil can last up to 36 hours, making it the go to “weekend” drug for erectile dysfunction.
Tadalafil’s effectiveness has been seen to last for up to 36 hours; it begins to take effect 30-60 minutes after it is taken, and its peak effect is at 2 hours. Its long effectiveness allows you to take it well in advance making it easier to plan for sexual activity over a longer period of time.
When Tadalafil is used for erectile dysfunction, it begins to work within 30-60 minutes. It then continues to work for up to 24-36 hours, with its peak effect being 2 hours after it’s taken. Tadalafil also must be taken before you plan on being sexually active. When taken at a lower prescribed dose (5mg) at the same time every day, Tadalafil increases the ability to achieve and maintain an erection under sexual stimulation (effects are seen after 4 to 5 days).
Tadalafil can be prescribed as needed, or once daily for ED. If taken as needed before sexual activity, with a typical starting dose of 10mg or 20 mg, a higher dose is needed than in the once daily regimen (5mg). Taking Tadalafil once daily will allow the medication to build up in your system, making it up to 1.6-times the daily dose. This means 5mg daily can have the same effect as taking 8mg. Both the as needed and the once daily regimens should be specific to the patients age, medical history and health conditions.
The most common reported side effects of Tadalafil include, but are not limited to, fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, headache, muscle aches, confusion, blurred vision, faintness, spontaneous penile erection and chills. If these side effects become persistent and/or bothersome, please contact your provider to discuss whether or not the medication should be stopped. If you start to experience rare, but serious, side effects such as prolonged painful erection for more than 4 hours (priapism), sudden vision loss, ringing in your ears, chest pain, trouble breathing or hives- please seek medical attention immediately.
Although Tadalafil has been shown to be safe for most men, it may not be suitable with certain medical conditions, and sometimes it may be used only if extra care is taken. For these reasons, men with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart conditions or blood vessel disease, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, multiple myeloma, any injury or deformity of the penis, low blood pressure or angina, history of stroke or heart attack, liver or kidney problems, bleeding conditions that cause ulcers, and any eye condition causing loss of vision, may be subject to adverse reactions. Please inform our providers if you suffer from any of these conditions or if you are taking any medications (prescribed or over the counter) that may interact with Tadalafil.
Before taking Tadalafil, please inform your provider if you are taking any medications that are known to interact with Tadalafil. Some prescription medications that interact with Tadalafil include alpha-blockers, other PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, vardenafil), oral antifungal medicines (ketoconazole, itraconazole), antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin), nitrates (nitroglycerin), guanylate cyclase stimulators (riociguat) and HIV protease inhibitors (ritonavir, atazanavir sulfate, saquinavir).
Tadalafil, Sildenafil, and Vardenafil all belong to the PDE5 inhibitors class, commonly used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. While they have similar mechanisms of action, their onset of action, duration, and side effects can differ. Tadalafil is often referred to as the "weekend pill" due to its prolonged effectiveness of up to 36 hours. In contrast, Sildenafil and Vardenafil generally have shorter durations. It's essential to discuss with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable medication for your needs.
Individuals with certain medical conditions, including severe heart disorders, recent history of stroke, or those allergic to the ingredients, should avoid Tadalafil. Moreover, people currently on nitrate medications or certain antifungal treatments should consult their healthcare provider due to potential drug interactions.
Store Tadalafil at room temperature, away from excessive moisture or heat. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Always ensure the storage area is away from direct sunlight.
Tadalafil can be taken with most foods. However, excessive alcohol intake while on Tadalafil can increase the risk of side effects, such as dizziness or a significant drop in blood pressure. It's advisable to limit alcohol consumption when planning to take Tadalafil.
For those on a daily regimen, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take double doses to compensate. If taking Tadalafil as needed, make sure you follow the instructions and do not take more than the prescribed dose in a 48-hour period.
In the event of an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms can include muscle pain, vision disturbances, or an unusually prolonged erection for more than 4 hours.
Most men well-tolerate Tadalafil even with long-term use. However, like all medications, prolonged use should be under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Regular check-ups will help monitor any potential side effects or changes in health that may necessitate dosage adjustments.
Tadalafil can be taken either on an as-needed basis or daily (at a lower dose), depending on the prescription. For as-needed consumption, it's advisable not to take more than 20mg within a 48-hour period.
Yes, a valid prescription from a licensed medical professional is required to purchase Tadalafil in Canada. Our online pharmacy offers an online consultation service, where you can connect with registered medical providers to discuss your needs and obtain a prescription if deemed appropriate.
