Tadalafil for Erectile Dysfunction

Tadalafil is a clinically proven treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED), helping men to achieve and maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity. It belongs to a group of medicines known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.

Unlike some other treatments for erectile dysfunction, tadalafil has a longer duration of action. It can remain effective for up to 36 hours, allowing for greater flexibility and spontaneity. It does not cause an erection without sexual arousal.

How tadalafil is taken

Tadalafil can be prescribed in two ways depending on your needs and lifestyle:

• As needed dosing (10 mg or 20 mg): taken before sexual activity

• Daily low-dose treatment (2.5 mg or 5 mg): taken once daily to allow for more spontaneous sexual activity

A qualified prescriber will assess which option is most suitable for you based on your medical history, frequency of use, and response to treatment.

Tadalafil should not be taken more than once per day.

Who tadalafil may be suitable for

Tadalafil may be suitable for adult men experiencing erectile dysfunction following assessment by a qualified prescriber.

At Mr Chemist, all patients are required to complete a secure online consultation. A UK-qualified prescriber will review your medical history, current medications, and suitability before any treatment is issued.

Treatment is only provided where clinically appropriate.

Who should not take tadalafil

Tadalafil is not suitable for everyone. You should not take tadalafil if you:

• Are taking nitrate medications or nicorandil

• Have been advised to avoid sexual activity due to cardiovascular risk

• Have severe heart or liver problems

• Have low blood pressure or certain eye conditions

A prescriber will assess your suitability based on your individual health profile.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, tadalafil can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.

Common side effects include:

• Headache

• Indigestion

• Back pain

• Muscle aches

• Flushing

• Nasal congestion

These side effects are usually mild and may occur several hours after taking the medication due to its longer duration of action.

Less common but important side effects:

• Prolonged or painful erection (priapism)

• Sudden loss of vision or hearing

• Chest pain or severe dizziness

If you experience any serious or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Drug interactions

Tadalafil can interact with certain medications. It is particularly important to avoid tadalafil if you are taking:

• Nitrates or nitric oxide donors

• Nicorandil

• Certain blood pressure medications

• Some antifungal or antibiotic treatments

• Other erectile dysfunction treatments

You should always provide full details of your current medications during your consultation.

Important considerations

• Tadalafil does not increase sexual desire

• It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections

• Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects

• Its longer duration means side effects may last longer than with other treatments

• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and underlying health conditions can affect treatment response

Clinical assessment and prescribing

At Mr Chemist, all consultations are reviewed by a qualified UK prescriber. We may access your Summary Care Record (SCR), where available, to support safe prescribing.

If tadalafil is not suitable for you, we will provide appropriate guidance or discuss alternative treatment options.

Your medication will only be dispensed once it has been clinically approved and will be supplied by our UK-registered pharmacy.

Discreet and convenient service

We understand that erectile dysfunction can be a sensitive issue. Our service is designed to be discreet, confidential, and clinically safe, allowing you to access treatment without the need for a face-to-face appointment.