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How Long Does Cialis Stay in Your System? What Affects It?

Julian Carter
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How Long Does Cialis Stay in Your System

Cialis is an FDA-approved medication that is used to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in men. It contains Tadalafil and is also FDA-approved for treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) urinary symptoms. 

Cialis is often recognized for its rapid onset of action and prolonged effects. But how long does Cialis stay in your system?

Cialis stays effective for many hours, typically the longest among all the Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as Viagra and Stendra. However, several factors can affect its effects and the duration it stays effective in your system.

This article elaborates on how Cialis works, its action, duration, how long it takes to leave your system, and what factors affect it.

How does Cialis work?

Before learning how long it takes for Cialis to be eliminated from your system, let’s understand how it works

As you already know, Cialis is an effective PDE5 inhibitor that is FDA-approved for treating Erectile Dysfunction and the urinary symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. 

Cialis relaxes smooth muscle in the blood vessels, increases blood flow to the penis, and facilitates an erection in response to sexual stimulation.

How long does Cialis take to work?

Cialis (Tadalafil) typically starts to work within 30 minutes of a dose, though the onset can vary between individuals. Some men may notice effects as soon as 15 minutes after taking it, but for others, it may take up to 2 hours to feel the full benefits. 

For best results, take Cialis at least 30 minutes before planned sexual activity. However, it is essential to understand that sexual stimulation is crucial for Cialis to be effective. It does not work in the absence of sexual stimulation and does not improve your sex drive.

How long does Cialis last?

Cialis is known for its longer action, with effects lasting up to 36 hours after a single Cialis dose. This extended window is why it’s often referred to as “the weekend pill.” However, this does not mean you will have a continuous erection during this period.

Some men may notice benefits for up to 72 hours, but most experience effective results within 24 to 36 hours. Cialis lasts significantly longer than other ED medications like Viagra, which typically works for about 4 to 6 hours.

Talking to a doctor before taking Cialis ensures its safety and effectiveness. They can also guide you regarding the dosage and potential interactions with other medications.

How long does Cialis stay in your system?

Cialis has a half-life of 17.5 hours. This means that it takes 17.5 hours for the concentration of the medication in your bloodstream to decrease by half. 

Cialis can remain in your system for up to 36 hours, so flushing it out may take some time. Drinking enough water is one technique to speed up the process. Staying hydrated allows your kidneys to flush out the medicine more efficiently. 

Participating in moderate exercise can also enhance blood flow and metabolism, potentially assisting in removing Cialis from your system. It’s important to avoid taking other medications or substances that could interact with Cialis, as it can slow down its metabolism. 

Thus, avoid alcohol, grapefruit juice, and some antibiotics that can interact with Cialis. Finally, the easiest way to get Cialis out of your system is to let your body metabolize and flush it naturally.

Did you know?
Tadalafil is also an active ingredient in Adcirca, which is FDA-approved for treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension.

Cialis daily vs Cialis as needed

Cialis can be prescribed in two main ways:

  • As-needed dose: It is taken 30 minutes to an hour before anticipated sexual activity. Its effects last up to 36 hours.
  • Daily dose: It is taken once a day at a lower dose, maintaining a steady level of the drug in the system and allowing for more spontaneous sexual activity. 

Unlike the as-needed option, daily dosing makes the drug’s concentration and its effects continuously available. However, the time it takes to fully clear from the system after stopping daily use may be slightly longer due to the ongoing presence of the medicine.

What factors affect how long Cialis stays in your system?

Several factors can affect how quickly Cialis is metabolized and eliminated from your system. Some of the various factors include the following: 

  • Age: Older adults often process medications more slowly, so Cialis may stay longer in their systems and take time to eliminate.
  • Kidney and liver function: Impaired kidney or liver function can delay the breakdown of Cialis. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking Cialis if you have liver or kidney problems.
  • Body weight: Men with higher body weight may metabolize drugs differently, potentially altering how long Cialis remains detectable.
  • Dosage and frequency: Higher doses or daily use can increase the cumulative amount of Cialis in the body, though it does not typically accumulate to harmful levels when taken as prescribed.
  • Other medications: Certain drugs can interact with Cialis, affecting its metabolism. Notably, Cialis and Nitrates can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure if taken too soon after Cialis. It is advised to wait at least 48 hours after your last dose before taking Nitrates.
Warning:
Cialis can interact with Nitrates (medications prescribed for chest pain) and lead to a sudden drop in Blood Pressure, which can lead to side effects, such as nausea.

Conclusion

Cialis is a commonly prescribed ED treatment and is recognized for its longer duration of action. But how long does Cialis stay in your system? It can stay effective for 36 hours and has a half-life of 17.5 hours.

Cialis is FDA-approved for treating Erectile Dysfunction and urinary symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. It contains Tadalafil and belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor class of medications. It starts working within 30-60 minutes.

However, several factors can affect its duration in your system, such as age, body weight, kidney or liver function, and medications. It is crucial to consult your doctor and seek the prescribed dosage to reduce the risks of side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I miss a dose of daily Cialis?

If you miss a dose of Cialis daily, do not panic. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next medication, skip it and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

Is it okay to take Cialis 2 days in a row?

No, it is not recommended to take Cialis (Tadalafil) two days in a row without consulting a doctor. A lower dosage is approved for daily use for specific medical conditions. However, you should not exceed its dose as it can lead to side effects, such as nausea and Priapism.

Can I use Cialis for life?

No, using Cialis for life without medical supervision is not recommended. Always consult your doctor and follow their instructions regarding using Cialis or other medications. Your doctor knows your health condition and can prescribe the best treatment.

Does Cialis keep you erect after coming?

No, Cialis or any other PDE5 inhibitors cannot keep you erect after ejaculation or cuming. It is an erection-improving pill and only works to keep you erect. It does not prevent the body’s natural refractory period after ejaculation.

Citations:
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