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Tadalafil — evidence-based review (for educational purposes only, not a substitute for medical advice)

Tadalafil is a prescription medicine most commonly used for erectile dysfunction (ED). It is also approved for certain urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate and for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Below is a plain-language review of what strong research shows, where uncertainties remain, and how to approach conversations about this medication safely.

Quick summary Tadalafil belongs to a group of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors; it improves blood flow in specific tissues. Strong evidence supports its use for erectile dysfunction and for lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It has a longer duration of action (up to 36 hours) compared with some similar drugs. Common side effects include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion. It must not be combined with nitrates due to risk of a dangerous drop in blood pre…

Over-the-counter ED remedies

Disclaimer: This article provides educational information about erectile dysfunction (ED) and non-prescription remedies. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health concerns.

Table of contents Basics: what it is Symptoms and signs Similar conditions: how to differentiate Diagnosis What usually helps FAQ Sources

For broader context on men’s health topics, see our general health education hub. Spanish readers can visit información médica en español, and Italian readers may explore risorse sulla salute maschile. We also provide materials in other languages in our multilingual health library.

Basics: what it is

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity. While occasional difficulty is common, ED is t…

Erectile dysfunction treatment: a practical medical guide

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Erectile dysfunction (ED) can have many causes, some of them serious. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment.

Key terms (glossary) Erectile dysfunction (ED) The persistent difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors A class of oral medications commonly used as first-line erectile dysfunction treatment. Vasodilation The widening of blood vessels, which improves blood flow to the penis. Endothelial function The health of blood vessel lining; crucial for normal erections. Testosterone deficiency Lower-than-normal levels of testosterone that may contribute to ED. Psychogenic ED Erectile dysfunction mainl…

"Performance enhancement drugs": myths, facts, and what to do

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It does not endorse the use of performance enhancement drugs (PEDs) and does not provide medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment recommendations. Laws, sports regulations, and health risks vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional and follow applicable regulations.

Key takeaways (TL;DR) PEDs are not limited to elite athletes; health risks can affect anyone. “Natural” or “legal” does not automatically mean safe or effective. Benefits are often overstated, while risks—cardiovascular, hormonal, psychiatric—are understated. Evidence quality varies widely; some claims rely on small or biased studies. Non-drug strategies (training, sleep, nutrition, recovery) deliver most gains with fewer risks. Myths and facts Myth: PEDs are only used by professional athletes

Fact: Use has been reported among recreat…