Tadalafil (Cialis)
PDE5 inhibitor. Used for erectile dysfunction and blood pressure management. Low-dose daily use popular in bodybuilding for pumps and cardiovascular benefits.
Overview
PDE5 inhibitor. Used for erectile dysfunction and blood pressure management. Low-dose daily use popular in bodybuilding for pumps and cardiovascular benefits.
Lowers blood pressure (mild), improves endothelial function, no significant impact on hormones or liver enzymes, does not affect lipids, can mildly lower haematocrit through improved blood flow. Generally blood-marker neutral.
Compound Guide
Structure: PDE5 (Phosphodiesterase-5) inhibitor. Blocks the breakdown of cGMP, promoting smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation. Much longer half-life than Sildenafil (Viagra).
Dosage:
- Daily low-dose (pumps/BP/prostate): 2.5-5mg/day
- Erectile function (as needed): 10-20mg taken 30-60 min before activity
- Daily erectile support: 5mg/day
Administration:
- Oral tablet, with or without food
- Daily low-dose provides steady-state levels within 5 days — always "on"
- As-needed dosing effective for up to 36 hours (hence "weekend pill")
Key Notes:
- Low-dose daily (5mg) is extremely popular in bodybuilding for:
- Better gym pumps (vasodilation)
- Blood pressure reduction (mild but meaningful, especially on AAS)
- Prostate health (relaxes smooth muscle in prostate)
- Erectile function support (especially on cycles that affect libido)
- Very well tolerated — headache and nasal congestion are the most common sides
- Do NOT combine with nitrates (nitroglycerin) — dangerous hypotension
- No significant impact on blood work — one of the most benign ancillaries
- Can counteract the vasoconstriction and blood pressure increases from AAS
- Some evidence of improved endothelial function and cardiovascular health with daily use
Usage History
Markers to Monitor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Reference
Category
Ancillary
Half-Life
17.5 hours
Detection Time
N/A