Can You Take Cialis on an Empty Stomach?

Highlights 

• It’s possible to take Cialis with or without food. Eating before taking Cialis doesn’t affect its efficacy.
• Cialis typically works within half an hour and can last for up to 36 hours.
• Other erectile dysfunction drugs are available, including Viagra, Staxyn, Levitra, and Stendra.

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Unlike some of the other popular erectile dysfunction drugs, Cialis can be taken with or without food. Research has shown that food, or lack thereof, has no effect on the medication’s onset of action or its effectiveness.

Cialis, a popular oral medication that treats erectile dysfunction, isn’t affected by food consumption. Dr. J. Francois Eid with Advanced Urological Care says taking Viagra or Levitra on a full stomach can delay the drug’s effectiveness. However, that’s not the case with Cialis, according to Dr. Eid.

Can You Take Cialis on an Empty Stomach?

“Cialis’ peak concentration and time before reaching maximum absorption is not affected by a full stomach,” Dr. Eid said. “Because of this, it remains my drug of choice for the treatment of ED, and I always prescribe it first. In addition, many of my patients experience fewer side effects with Cialis than with the other two.”

Why Choose Cialis Over Other ED Drugs?

Eid says Cialis has a long period of activity and patients are successful at intercourse up to 36 hours after taking this pill. “This represents a distinct advantage from the patient’s perspective as it diminishes the need for planning. Sex can be more spontaneous and natural. Planning kills the mood. Having sex long after taking the pill makes men feel more normal,” he said. “For these reasons, I will first try Cialis on all my patients and reserve Viagra and Levitra for those men who do not tolerate Cialis.”

More About Cialis

Cialis hit the market about five years after Viagra. In 2003, the FDA approved the medication to treat erectile dysfunction. Because the pill is effective for up to 36 hours, it’s nicknamed “The Weekend Pill” and has proven effective for millions of men. The medication is also used to treat a localized form of high blood pressure known as pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Cialis’ recommended starting dose is 2.5 milligrams, which can be increased to 5 milligrams. Users should take it at the same time every day to maintain steady levels of the drug.

Cialis requires sexual stimulation to become effective. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also essential. Cialis interacts with some non-ED drugs, which means it’s essential to discuss using Cialis with your doctor before taking new medications. 

How Does Cialis Work?

During sexual arousal and stimulation, blood flows to two tubes of spongy tissue in the penis. When the blood flows unimpeded, it results in an erection.

In cases of erectile dysfunction, a decrease in blood flow to the penis can make it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection. The reasons for reduced blood flow can vary but may include cardiovascular disease, narrow arteries, and diabetes. 

Like many other erectile dysfunction medications, Cialis is a PDE5 inhibitor. This means it blocks an enzyme that prevents blood vessel walls from relaxing. When blood vessel walls relax, it makes it easier for blood to flow to areas of the body where it’s needed, including the penis.

Other Erectile Dysfunction Medications

Cialis isn’t the only ED drug on the market. Understanding what’s available and how each medication works can make it easier to find the right fit.

Viagra

As one of the most well-known erectile dysfunction pills, Viagra works within 30 minutes and lasts for up to four hours. Using Viagra increases the chances of having an erection by 3.57 times. Its rapid onset makes it popular, and it usually comes in a starting dose of 50 milligrams. 

Viagra doses may vary according to each person’s age and health status. Men over the age of 64 may need to take a slightly lower dose. As Viagra works with the circulatory system to produce an erection, exacerbations of conditions such as diabetes and atherosclerosis may reduce its efficacy.

Levitra

Levitra has a high first-dose success rate, with 81 percent of men experiencing its benefits the first time they take it. It usually works within an hour and can last up to five hours. Levitra’s typical dose is 10 milligrams, but it’s also available in 5 and 25 milligram doses.

One study reveals that Levitra has a strong success rate at all HBA1C levels. As such, it’s an effective ED medication for those who have diabetes. 

Staxyn

Staxyn is the only ED drug available in the U.S. in a sublingual form. It’s possible to take Staxyn with or without food, and because it’s sublingual, there’s no need for water. Usually, it takes an hour for Staxyn to work.

Staxyn only comes with one dose option: 10 milligrams. However, it’s a useful option for anyone who struggles to swallow tablets. Because it’s sublingual, it may feel easier to take Staxyn and remain spontaneous — there’s no need to grab a glass of water in preparation. 

Stendra

Stendra has a rapid onset, with studies showing that it can produce an erection within 15 minutes. It typically lasts for up to six hours and comes in doses of 50 and 100 milligrams.

Like Staxyn, Stendra may appeal to anyone who loves spontaneity. It has a rapid onset, making it easier to be ready in the moment. However, it’s important to remember that Stendra is best taken with liquid.

Finding the Right ED Medication

Not everyone takes to the first ED medication they try. When it feels as though an ED medication isn’t working, it’s wise to consult with a medical professional so they can explore alternatives. 

Ordering Cialis Online

If you want to try Cialis, you can order it at eDrugstore.com. You can fill out our health questionnaire or consult with one of our trained medical professionals. Shipping is always free, and your order will arrive quickly in discreet packaging. To learn more, visit our erection problems page.