Can Women Take Tadalafil? – Explore Answer

Cialis (tadalafil) has contributed to the development of treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men and, as a result, has become one of the most well-known medications to do so. The mechanism of action for tadalafil involves improved circulation, leading to questions as to whether women take tadalafil and whether it also works to improve women’s sexual functions.

While tadalafil is known to treat ED in men, its use in women is still a work in progress and a subject of research. Some have begun to hypothesize whether tadalafil could potentially aid women in their sexual arousal or their low libido, however the research to date has most often been stagnant and lacking.

So, can women take tadalafil? Learn about what tadalafil is, its effects on women, and its risks, and what the research says.

Quick Facts

• Cialis (tadalafil) is designed for men and their erectile dysfunction.
• It is not licenced or routinely prescribed to women.
• Women take tadalafil may experience headaches, dizziness, and/or a flushed face and may become congested.
• Research has not provided any consistent results for improved sexual function in women.
• Currently, there are no licensed equivalents to Cialis for women in the UK or Europe.
• Women should not self-prescribe, but should seek medical advice for sexual health concerns.

How Does Tadalafil Work?

Tadalafil works to inhibit phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5).

Tadalafil aids the health and function of the vasculature in the penis of men by increasing the flow of blood to it and thus assists men in obtaining an erection.

Research has indicated that using tadalafil may also enhance circulation to genital tissues, such as the vagina and clitoris. Thus, it may also enhance sensitivity and arousal. Unfortunately, studies have inconsistently shown that women take tadalafil experience increases in sexual satisfaction and/or sexual desire.

Is Tadalafil (Cialis) Approved for Women?

No, there is no approval for the use of Tadalafil in Women in the UK, Europe, and in several other countries.

Tadalafil is currently approved for:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in Males
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)-related urinary symptoms

Tadalafil has been researched for use with female sexual dysfunction. Unfortunately, mixed results have been reported in clinical studies. The current evidence does not support the use of Tadalafil for:

• Sexual desire
• Sexual arousal
• Sexual satisfaction

Due to the lack of research and evidence, there are no recommendations in place for use of Cialis in women, except in limited research studies.

What Happens If a Woman Takes Tadalafil?

Tadalafil has the potential to enhance circulation to pelvic tissues in women.

Some effects may be:

• Increased warmth in the genitals
• Mild Flushing
• Changes in Sensitivity

Again, the potential effects of enhanced circulation do not correlate to the potential effects of increased satisfaction and/or desire. Most importantly, women will experience the same potential side effects.

Common Side Effects

Women take tadalafil can lead to have:

• Headaches
• Skin flushing
• Nasal blockage
• Light-headedness
• Indigestion
• Stomach upset
• Muscle discomfort
• Back pain

Potential Risks

As tadalafil can cause a drop in blood pressure, some women take tadalafil may have:

• Severe light-headedness
• Fainting
• Other symptoms from low blood pressure

This may worsen if tadalafil is used with:

• Alcohol
• Blood pressure lowering medications
• Nitrates

Tadalafil also has not had extensive study for women, meaning there is also little knowledge on:

• Safety for the long-term
• Effects on hormones
• Risk in pregnancy
• Interaction with birth control
• Interaction with hormone replacement therapy

If a woman takes tadalafil by mistake, it is usually not dangerous, but if light-headedness, chest pain, or shortness of breath occur, seek medical attention immediately.

What the Research Says About Tadalafil for Women

With women in the study of tadalafil for conditions such as:

• Female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD)
• Sexual dysfunction due to antidepressants

Studies showed an increase in blood flow to the genitals, but many studies showed no or little gain in sexual function, sexual desire, and sexual satisfaction.

Tadalafil was also further shown to cause similar side effects to men, such as:

• Headaches
• Skin flushing and nasal congestion

Due to other studies showing the same side effects, the use of tadalafil in women remains unsupported.

Is There a Female Version of Cialis?

While there is no currently approved Cialis for women, two drugs have been created to target other types of female sexual dysfunction, particularly condition related to low sexual desire in premenopausal women.

Unlike Cialis, which helps engorge the penis, these medications tap into pathways that relate to sexual interest in women.

These medications are still available primarily in the USA and are not routinely licensed or prescribed in the UK.

Why Women Should Not Take Cialis Without Medical Advice

Tadalafil is in a class of medications that relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

Improper use could elevate the risk of adverse health consequences.

Women take tadalafil experiencing issues like

• Low libido
• Inability to become aroused
• Dissatisfaction with sex or
• Pain during sex

Should see the appropriate health care professional.

Sexual dysfunction can be due to

• Hormonal changes
• Menopause
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Relationship problems
• Medical issues
• Side effects from medications

A healthcare professional is the best option to pinpoint the source of the issue and suggest the appropriate therapeutic interventions.

Are There Better Options for Women?

The treatment of female sexual dysfunction is contingent on its etiology.

Some options may include

• Changes in lifestyle
• Hormone therapy
• Counseling or therapy
• Medication
• Prescription medications designed for women

Considering the complexity of the female body, the best therapeutic option is professional medical advice.

Key Takeaway

Tadalafil (Cialis) treats erectile dysfunction. Tadalafil temporarily increases blood flow to the genital tissues of women, but research is not conclusive that it has any positive effects on sexual desire, sexual arousal, or sexual satisfaction of women.

Women can suffer from the common side effects of Tadalafil along with the side effects of nasal congestion, dizziness and flushing. It is unknown the long-term safety of Tadalafil in women. Therefore, Tadalafil is not approved or recommended for women. Instead of self prescribing Tadalafil, it is recommended that women go to the doctor to discuss concerns of sexual health.