How long does Cialis last?

If you're wondering how long does Cialis last, the answer is that it depends on the dose. The effects of Cialis can last up to 36 hours, making it a popular choice for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) who want a longer-lasting solution.

Erectile dysfunction is common among men over the age of 40, although it can happen to younger men, too. ED means that you can either not achieve an erection at all or that you are unable to keep an erection long enough for you to have sex. While there isn’t a “normal” length of time for an average man to stay erect, men can usually stay erect for anything from 10 minutes to half an hour.

ED can have numerous causes beyond age, including psychological factors, certain medications, or lifestyle habits.

Cialis is one of the more common treatments for erectile dysfunction. Containing the active ingredient, Tadalafil, Cialis works by increasing the blood flow to the penis, thereby helping a man to achieve and keep an erection.

Key takeaways

• Cialis effects last up to 36 hours, with 20mg and 10mg doses taken as needed and lower daily doses (2.5mg and 5mg) providing continuous effectiveness.
• Cialis requires sexual stimulation to work, and it helps improve erections by increasing blood flow to the penis.
• Taking Cialis exactly as prescribed and maintaining a healthy lifestyle enhances its effectiveness.
• Common side effects include headaches, muscle aches, and flushing, which can be minimised by following the prescribed dose and avoiding certain medications.

How long Cialis lasts for

The length of time that Cialis lasts will depend on a range of factors. Cialis has different strengths that are available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The lower 2.5mg or 5 mg dosage, which is taken daily, has a continuous effect once levels of Tadalafil have been built up in your system, whereas the higher doses of Cialis 20mg and 10mg are taken as required and its effects last for up to 36 hours according to the NHS.

This is why Cialis is sometimes referred to as the "weekend pill" - if you take it on Friday evening, you may still feel the effects on Sunday morning. However, this doesn't mean you will have an erection the entire time. Cialis only works when you are sexually stimulated. It helps you get and maintain an erection when the time is right.

How long does Cialis take to work?

Cialis 20mg and 10mg tablets usually start working within 30 minutes to an hour.

If you're taking the lower daily dose of 2.5mg or 5mg, Cialis will be in your system continuously. This means you should be able to achieve an erection at any time, provided you are sexually stimulated. It may take up to a week for daily Tadalafil to take full effect when you first start taking it.

How to get the maximum effect from Cialis

If you want to get maximum effect from Cialis, you need to do more than just take the dose recommended to you by your prescriber. The best results from Cialis come when taking the drug is accompanied by an improved lifestyle, such as limiting alcohol intake, a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Here are some additional tips to get the most out of Cialis:

1. Take Cialis exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Don't increase or decrease your dose without talking to them first.
2. While Cialis can help you achieve an erection, the NHS advice notes that it still requires sexual stimulation to work. Engage in foreplay and take your time to get aroused.
3. If you're on the daily dose, try to take Cialis at the same time each day to maintain steady levels of the drug in your system.

Remember, while Cialis is highly effective, it's not magic. Giving yourself enough time and the right environment to get in the mood can help Cialis work its best.

Does Cialis lose effectiveness over time?

Cialis shouldn’t lose effectiveness over time. As with any drugs, there is no guarantee that Tadalafil will work for all men with ED. If you are taking Cialis or another product containing Tadalafil and it doesn’t work, go back to your prescriber, who may recommend a larger dose or an alternative treatment.

If you are taking Cialis and it is no longer working as well as it used to, speak to a medical professional; if your ED is the result of another health complication, such as vascular disease (any condition that affects the network of your blood vessels), the loss of effectiveness could be the result of your health condition worsening, rather than the drug ceasing to work.

When to take Cialis for best results

The NHS guidelines recommend that you take Cialis at least half an hour before you need it. If you are taking a daily dose of Cialis, you can take it at a time that is convenient to you, provided you take it around the same time each day. Cialis doesn’t have to be taken with a meal but should be swallowed with water.

For the as-needed doses (10mg and 20mg), take Cialis at least 30 minutes before sex. The effects may last up to 36 hours, so you have some flexibility in your timing.

How to avoid Cialis side effects

Like all drugs, some people taking Cialis may experience side effects. Based on the Patient Information Leaflet, the most common side effects of Cialis (appearing in 1 to 10 in 100 people) include headache, muscle aches, back pain, flushing, and a stuffy or runny nose.

Before you are prescribed Cialis, your prescriber will check your medical history to ensure there are no indications that Cialis may not be the right drug for you.

If you are undertaking an online consultation, you can avoid complications by being as thorough and honest during the consultation so that your prescriber can get a clear picture of your medical history as well as your current medications and potential risk factors.

When you're taking Cialis, NICE cautions that you should avoid alpha-blockers (high blood pressure medications), nitrates (used to widen your blood vessels), antifungals and grapefruit juice. These can cause dangerous interactions, leading to serious health risks, such as a significant drop in blood pressure.

Once you have been prescribed Cialis, side effects can be minimised by making sure that you take the drug exactly as prescribed and that you minimise drinking and avoid smoking while taking the drug.

How Oxford Online Pharmacy can help

Oxford Online Pharmacy is a fully registered UK pharmacy committed to providing safe, effective, and well-led services. Our team of experienced pharmacists and healthcare professionals are dedicated to ensuring patient safety and delivering the highest level of customer service.

To take the next step in treating your erectile dysfunction, visit our website to start an online consultation.

If you purchase Cialis or any other prescription drug from Oxford Online Pharmacy, your prescriber will carefully assess the information you provide during your online consultation. If they decide that Cialis is not the most appropriate drug for you, they may recommend an alternative drug or a different dose for you to try in the first instance. If you have any questions at any time, you can ask your prescriber or get in touch with our team, and they will be happy to help you.

Don't let erectile dysfunction control your life any longer. Take action today and let Oxford Online Pharmacy help you regain your confidence and improve your sexual health.

FAQs

Can I take 20 mg of Cialis two days in a row?

It's not recommended to take 20mg of Cialis for two consecutive days. Cialis 20mg is intended for use as needed, at least 30 minutes before sexual activity, and its effects can last up to 36 hours. Taking it two days in a row could lead to increased side effects. If you need to use Cialis more frequently, talk to your doctor about the lower daily dose options.

Does Cialis really last 3 days?

The effects of Cialis can last up to 36 hours, which is why it's sometimes called the "weekend pill." However, this doesn't mean you'll have an erection for 36 hours straight. Cialis only works when you're sexually stimulated. The 36-hour window simply means you'll be able to achieve an erection more easily during that time when aroused.

Will 20mg of Cialis make you harder?

Cialis 20mg can help you achieve and maintain an erection when you're sexually stimulated. However, it doesn't necessarily make your erection "harder" than normal. Cialis works by increasing blood flow to the penis, allowing you to get an erection in response to sexual stimulation. The hardness of your erection depends on many factors, including your overall health, arousal level, and any underlying conditions.

Sources:

1. NHS (2023). Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
2. NHS (2022). About Tadalafil
3. Cialis Patient Information Leaflet