Table of Contents
II. When Should You Take Cialis?
III. How Long Does Cialis Last?
IV. How Long Does Cialis Stay in Your System?
VI. FAQ: How should you time Cialis for the best results?
Timing is a big part of romance; you want to be good to go when it’s time to get going. But things don’t always move according to your preferred pace. And when you have erectile dysfunction (ED) and need to take a medication like Cialis (tadalafil) or Viagra (sildenafil), timing your dose can make a real difference on any romantic evening.
So let’s take a look at how to use Cialis for maximum benefit. First things first, let’s review what Cialis is.
What is Cialis?
Cialis — the generic name of which is tadalafil — is a unique drug for treating erectile dysfunction. Unlike its well-known counterpart, Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil) can also treat an unrelated ailment called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). [1] Read our article What Is Cialis and How Does It Work? to learn more about Cialis.
When Should You Take Cialis?
To answer the burning question, Cialis can be taken as needed, generally at least 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity. [1]
However, Cialis can also be taken once a day at a lower dose, enabling you to engage in sexual activity at any time. [1] This makes Cialis a popular choice for patients who prefer a little spontaneity. If you take Cialis this way, try to take your dose around the same time each day.
Either way, make sure you discuss with your doctor when and how you should take Cialis. Each person’s body is unique, and your doctor may have specific recommendations for you based on your unique biological characteristics and medical history.
How Long Does Cialis Last?
Cialis is said to be effective for up to 36 hours, but of course, your unique mileage may vary. [1] Talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage if yours is not working effectively for you.
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How Long Does Cialis Stay in Your System?
Cialis is different from other ED drugs in that it stays in your body for a longer period of time. Based on tadalafil's roughly 17.5-hour half-life, the active ingredient generally takes about 3 to 4 days to fully clear the body. [1] This lingering time period can be even longer if you also have a kidney or liver condition, or if you take other medications that affect Cialis. [2]
Knowing how long Cialis stays in your system is important if you take other medicines or live with other health conditions. Talk to your doctor for more individualized information.
Summary
The table below breaks down when different ED medications start working and how long their effects may last.
FAQ: How should you time Cialis for the best results?
Cialis timing depends on whether you were prescribed the as-needed dose or the once-daily dose. As-needed Cialis is usually taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activity, while daily Cialis is taken every day at about the same time, so you do not have to plan each dose around sex.
Cialis can last up to 36 hours, giving you a wider window than some other ED medications. However, sexual stimulation is still needed for it to work, and the timing can vary from person to person. If Cialis does not work right away, give it some time. If it still does not work after a few tries, talk to your doctor about whether your dose or treatment plan needs to be adjusted.
To maximize the effectiveness of Cialis:
- Take as-needed Cialis at least 30 minutes before sex
- Take daily Cialis at the same time each day
- Give the medication enough time to work
- Do not take extra doses on your own
- Ask your doctor before changing your dose
DISCLAIMER: The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice. In all circumstances, you should always seek the advice of your physician and/or other qualified health professionals(s) for drug, medical condition, or treatment advice. The content provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.