Cialis: Different administration methods and dosages examined

This study examined different administrations of tadalafil (Cialis) in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Authors reported improved erectile and orgasmic function across all administration methods and dosages, with the exception of a low daily dose in a selection of men.

Drug therapy with phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis), are often the first-line treatment for erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil is a short-acting PDE5 inhibitor, and tadalafil is a long-acting PDE5 inhibitor. Both are believed to be effective in achieving erection for sexual intercourse. Tadalafil can be administered on demand (as needed) or once daily. Evidence is still mixed with regards to which administration method and dosage of tadalafil is more effective in treating erectile dysfunction.

The aim of this study was to analyze recent findings on different tadalafil administrations for erectile dysfunction.

The results of 21 separate trials were analyzed, involving a total of 4,354 men with ED. 17 trials administered tadalafil on demand, using either a low dose (10 mg), a high dose (20 mg), or placebo (control substance with no effect on the body). 4 trials administered tadalafil once daily, using either a low dose (2.5 mg), a high dose (5 mg) or placebo.

Tadalafil significantly improved erectile function and orgasmic function regardless of administration method and dosage. Intercourse quality and satisfaction were also improved with treatment. Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, or frequent alcohol use did not affect improvements in erectile function. However, there was a smaller effect of tadalafil on orgasmic function among men with diabetes.

A low daily dose was less effective in improving erectile and orgasmic function in a selection of men. These included obese men, men who smoked, men with ED for less than 1 year, men with no previous PDE5 inhibitor use, and men aged less than 50 or more than 65 years.

Authors concluded that tadalafil is effective in improving erectile and orgasmic function, regardless of administration method and dosage. However, there was a smaller effect with a low daily dose in a selection of men.