What is Tadalafil and how does it treat erectile dysfunction?

Tadalafil is an oral PDE5 inhibitor approved by the US FDA in 2003 for treating erectile dysfunction. It works by maintaining nitric oxide levels in penile tissue, making it easier to achieve and sustain an erection when sexual arousal occurs naturally.

Does Tadalafil make you feel aroused or horny automatically?

No. Tadalafil does not create sexual desire on its own. It only works when the man is already sexually stimulated. When aroused, the medication helps penile tissue respond more easily, resulting in a firmer and more reliable erection.

How long does Tadalafil last compared to other ED medications?

Tadalafil remains effective for up to 36 hours, which is significantly longer than Sildenafil (Viagra), which lasts only 3–5 hours. This makes Tadalafil more flexible for spontaneous sexual activity.

Can I take Tadalafil with food or alcohol?

Yes. Unlike some other ED medications, Tadalafil can be taken with fatty meals or alcoholic drinks without reducing its effectiveness. This is one of its key advantages over other PDE5 inhibitors.

How effective is Tadalafil for erectile dysfunction?

Tadalafil has approximately a 70% success rate in improving erectile dysfunction. It is considered one of the most effective oral treatments currently available.

How Tadalafil Treats Erectile Dysfunction

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Soarawee Weerasopone, Urologist

Bangkok hospital Headquarter, Bangkok

Samitivej Sriracha hospital, Chonburi

LINE Contact

Today we are going to discuss about Tadalafil oral tablet. No one doubt that nowadays, men’s sexual health tends to get more concern and serious. Excellent sexual life is also the essential part to maintaining a youth-liked well-being.

Excellent sexual life is all gentlemen want.

So today we will talk in detail on the one-best medicine among other oral medications for erectile dysfunction. This best medicine is Tadalafil and all related things you must know about the drug.

The revolutionary on an erectile dysfunction treatment started since 1998 after the world-famous drug company named Pfizer introduced the first-ever oral tablet PDE5 inhibitor, Sildenafil (Viagra). After practicing over the world for a while, Sildenafil have been complaint for a short duration of action (3 – 5 hours) and some unwanted side effects such as flushing on the face and blurred vision. That’s why Tadalafil was invented and being approved by USA Food and Drug Administration in 2003.

Viagra is the first ever oral tablet for erectile dysfunction.

Mechanism of Tadalafil

It acts at erectile tissue inside the penis
Its effect is maintaining an important erection-related neurotransmitter, Nitric Oxide (NO)
Once sexual arousal was done, there will be a signal from the brain transmitted to penile tissue via spinal cord, then erectile tissue which already boosted by Tadalafil will be easier erected.

Tadalafil will make penis erect easier.

Tadalafil is not a medication which make you feel horny. When you feel aroused by yourself, your penis will erect easier and harder.

Strong points on Tadalafil

70% chance of improving erectile dysfunction
36 hours of effectiveness
Can take freely with fatty meal or alcoholic drinks

Tadalafil can be taken with alcohol unlike some other ED medications.

Side effects: Headache (12%), Dyspepsia (7%), Back pain (6%), Flushing (3%).

Contraindications: Must not take with Nitrates (sublingual medication for chest pain), recent history of stroke or heart attack, allergy to Tadalafil.

For your safety, please talk to your trusted Urologist before using any erectile dysfunction oral tablets. See you in next article!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How does Tadalafil work for erectile dysfunction?

Tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor that works by preserving nitric oxide (NO) in the erectile tissue of the penis. When sexual arousal occurs, brain signals travel to the penile tissue, and Tadalafil helps the erectile tissue respond more readily, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection. It does not cause spontaneous erections — sexual stimulation is still required.

Q2: How long does Tadalafil last compared to Sildenafil (Viagra)?

Tadalafil has a significantly longer duration of action at up to 36 hours, compared to Sildenafil which lasts only 3-5 hours. This extended window gives couples more flexibility and spontaneity. Tadalafil can also be taken with fatty meals or alcohol without reducing its effectiveness, unlike Sildenafil which may be affected by food and alcohol intake.

Q3: What are the side effects of Tadalafil?

Common side effects of Tadalafil include headache (12%), dyspepsia or indigestion (7%), back pain (6%), and flushing (3%). These side effects are generally mild and temporary. Back pain is more commonly associated with Tadalafil than with other PDE5 inhibitors and typically resolves within 48 hours without treatment.

Q4: Who should NOT take Tadalafil?

Tadalafil is contraindicated in men taking nitrate medications (used for chest pain such as sublingual nitroglycerin), as the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. It should also be avoided in men with a recent history of stroke or heart attack, and in those with a known allergy to Tadalafil. Always consult a doctor before starting any ED medication.

Q5: Can I buy Tadalafil without a prescription?

While Tadalafil may be available over the counter in some countries, it is strongly recommended to consult a qualified urologist before use. Self-medicating with ED medications without proper evaluation risks missing an underlying cause of erectile dysfunction such as cardiovascular disease, hormonal imbalance, or diabetes. A urologist can confirm the diagnosis, assess safety, and prescribe the correct dosage.

If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction and would like guidance on the most appropriate treatment, Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone offers specialist men’s health consultations at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. Book a Consultation.

Disclaimer: This content is written and reviewed by Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone, a board-certified urologist at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. It is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any medical treatment.

Medically written & reviewed by: Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone (Dr. Pom) — Board-Certified Urologist, Bangkok Hospital Headquarters. International Fellow: Baylor College of Medicine (USA) · Juntendo University (Japan) · Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (Taiwan).

Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone

Dr. Soarawee Weerasopone (Dr. Pom) is a board-certified urologist at Bangkok Hospital Headquarters, specializing in Men’s Health, Robotic Surgery (Da Vinci System), and Kidney Stone treatment. He has completed international fellowships at Baylor College of Medicine (USA), Juntendo University Hospital (Japan), and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (Taiwan). All medical content on this site is written and reviewed by Dr. Soarawee based on his clinical experience and international training.