Cialis is one of the most popular erectile dysfunction (ED) medications in Canada, and for good reason. Its active ingredient, tadalafil, is known for its long duration of action, up to 36 hours, which gives men far more flexibility than many other ED treatments. But with that flexibility comes an important question: how much tadalafil should you actually take?
The answer depends on several factors, including your age, your overall health, how often you plan to be sexually active, and how your body responds to the medication. In this guide, we’ll break down the approved Cialis dosages, explain the difference between on-demand and daily dosing, and help you understand what to expect.
Cialis is a brand-name medication manufactured by Eli Lilly. Its active ingredient is tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. PDE5 inhibitors work by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, which increases blood flow and makes it easier to achieve and maintain an erection when you are sexually stimulated.
In Canada, Cialis is approved by Health Canada for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It is available in several strengths, and the right one for you depends on your lifestyle and how your body responds.
Tadalafil works by blocking the enzyme PDE5, which normally breaks down a molecule called cyclic GMP. When you are sexually aroused, your body produces cyclic GMP, which relaxes the smooth muscle in the penis and allows blood to flow in. By preventing PDE5 from breaking down cyclic GMP, tadalafil helps maintain that relaxation and blood flow longer.
This mechanism is the same for all PDE5 inhibitors, but tadalafil stands out because of its long half-life. A single dose can last up to 36 hours, which is why Cialis is sometimes called “the weekend pill.”
Cialis is available in two main dosing approaches, each with its own strengths.
On-demand dosing means you take a tablet shortly before you plan to be sexually active. The approved strengths for this approach are 10 mg and 20 mg.
You should take the tablet at least 30 minutes before sexual activity, though it can be taken up to 36 hours beforehand and still be effective. The effects last for up to 36 hours.
Daily dosing involves taking a low dose of tadalafil every day, regardless of when you plan to be sexually active. This approach is ideal for men who are sexually active more than twice a week or who want the spontaneity of not having to plan around a pill.
With daily dosing, tadalafil builds up in your system, so you are ready for sexual activity at any time. The effects are continuous rather than tied to a single dose.
| Dosing Approach | Strength | When to Take | Duration of Effect |
| On-Demand | 10 mg | 30+ minutes before sex | Up to 36 hours |
| On-Demand | 20 mg | 30+ minutes before sex | Up to 36 hours |
| Daily | 2.5 mg | Once daily | Continuous |
| Daily | 5 mg | Once daily | Continuous |
Choosing the right dose is a conversation you should have with your doctor. In general, your doctor will start you on the lowest dose that is likely to work and adjust from there.
Several factors can influence the right dose for you, including:
Take Cialis exactly as your doctor prescribes. Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours for on-demand use. For daily dosing, take it at the same time each day.
You can take Cialis with or without food. It is important to note that sexual stimulation is required for the medication to work; it does not cause an erection on its own.
Like all medications, Cialis can cause side effects. Common ones include:
Most side effects are mild and go away on their own. However, you should seek medical attention right away if you experience:
You should talk to your doctor before starting Cialis, especially if you have a history of heart problems, stroke, or high or low blood pressure. You should also avoid taking tadalafil with nitrates, as the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
If you have any questions about your dose or experience any concerning side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
Kama Health is a trusted Canadian online pharmacy. We are committed to helping Canadians access safe, affordable medications. For questions about your prescriptions, call us toll-free at 1-888-533-9842 or visit kamahealth.ca.
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