Cialis (tadalafil) is an oral tablet used to treat impotence or erectile dysfunction (ED). It can also be used to manage the symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). A vasodilator, Cialis increases blood flow to the penis, making it easier for men to achieve and maintain an erection.

Cialis belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These medications help blood vessels relax and expand (dilate), which can make it easier for men to get erections and maintain them during sex.

Cialis looks like an oval pill that is light to medium yellow in color. It will say C 20 or your corresponding dosage on the pill, such as C 50 or C 100 for 20mg and 100mg of Cialis, respectively.

How Does Cialis Work?

By dilating blood vessels, Cialis and other PDE5s like Viagra enhance the effects of certain chemicals that the body normally releases to the penis when a man is sexually aroused. Cialis does not increase libido, so men who struggle with arousal will not be able to increase their sex drive with Cialis or other PDE5s.

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How Long Does It Take for Cialis to Work?

Cialis takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect. Research shows that tadalafil is not affected by eating, so taking it with or without food won’t influence how quickly it works. The reason why it may work faster in some men than others comes down to metabolism and arousal.

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Can You Make Cialis Work Faster?

Many men can find that Cialis works within 30 minutes with sexual stimulation. However, there is no proven way to make Cialis work faster. Your body processes the drug at its own rate, which may mean it takes longer for some men to notice the effects than others.
Depending on how long it takes for Cialis to work for you, you may consider talking to your doctor about adjusting your dosage or timing when you take the pill before sex.

What Is Cialis Generic?

Tadalafil is the generic form of Cialias, and it has a yellow color and can be oval or circular. Some manufacturers produce tadalafil as capsule-shaped white pills while others are small round circles. You can always confirm with your pharmacist what your pills should look like based on your prescription.

Sources:
Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) Inhibitors In the Management of Erectile Dysfunction - PMC‍

Vasodilation: What Causes Blood Vessels to Widen ‍

Cialis Tips: Side Effects, How Long it Lasts, and More - GoodRx‍

Tadalafil population pharmacokinetics in patients with erectile dysfunction Why does Cialis take at least 12-14 hours to work?