Tadalafil And Alcohol: Understanding The Risks And Safety Tips

If you notice your sexual performance isn’t the same after drinking alcohol, you may be wondering — could an erectile dysfunction treatment be the solution? And if so, is it even safe to combine treatments like Cialis (generic tadalafil) with alcohol?

Let’s explore the potential risks, the impact of your alcohol intake on erectile dysfunction, and how you can safely improve your performance while drinking.

How does Cialis (tadalafil) work?

Cialis, or tadalafil, is a popular treatment for erectile dysfunction. Tadalafil belongs to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by relaxing the smooth muscle and blood vessels in your penis, increasing blood flow and allowing you to achieve an erection during sexual stimulation.  

Tadalafil and alcohol: What are the potential side effects?

Because alcohol and tadalafil both have an impact on the muscles in your blood vessels, it’s possible for them to interact. Here are a few of the potential effects you could notice, particularly when consuming intoxicating levels of alcohol, or more than four alcoholic drinks in a short period of time.

Drops in blood pressure

Combining tadalafil and alcohol can trigger a sudden drop in your blood pressure (hypotension) which may lead to lightheadedness, dizziness, or even fainting. [1] This is more likely when standing up quickly or engaging in physical activity — this includes sexual activity.

Increased risk of common side effects

Many people report mild, temporary side effects from tadalafil, including headaches, digestive upset, muscle pain and facial flushing. [1] Due to alcohol causing similar side effects, it’s possible that these side effects are more likely, and could be more severe.

Prolonged erection (priapism)

This is a rare side effect of tadalafil, which could become more likely when drinking alcohol. [2] If you experience a painful or prolonged erection (more than 4 hours) when taking tadalafil with or without alcohol, it’s essential to seek prompt medical attention. You can learn more about tadalafil side effects here.

Reduced effectiveness

Just as alcohol can impact sexual performance under normal circumstances, it can also affect the effectiveness of erectile dysfunction treatments. For best results, avoid drinking alcohol while using a treatment and remember that, unlike Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil) can remain active for 36 hours.

Is it safe to drink alcohol with tadalafil?

Excessive alcohol drinking is always advised against, as lots of alcohol can be seriously detrimental to your health. According to official medical advice, one alcoholic beverage is unlikely to impact the results of an erectile dysfunction treatment, but heavy amounts of alcohol can have a negative effect on your health and sexual performance. [3] If you do intend to drink while using tadalafil, it’s recommended that you do so in moderation, and be wary of any side effects. 

Note: Although non-alcoholic, it is not safe to consume grapefruit juice with any erectile dysfunction drug.

Looking for erectile dysfunction treatment options? Learn more with a free online consultation from our medical professionals today.

At ZipHealth, we provide prescription medications for erectile dysfunction, delivered discreetly to your door.

References

[1] Source: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.12501.pdf

[2] Source: https://www.drugs.com/disease-interactions/tadalafil.html#priapism

[3] Common questions about tadalafil [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2022. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/tadalafil/common-questions-about-tadalafil/