Cialis does not:
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- cure ED
- increase a man’s sexual desire
- protect a man or his partner from sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV
- serve as a male form of birth control
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Cialis is available by prescription only.
* The brand listed is a trademark of its respective owner and is not a trademark of Eli Lilly and Company. The maker of this brand is not affiliated with and does not endorse Eli Lilly and Company or its products.
Cialis (tadalafil) is an effective medication for erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but it has clear limitations. Here’s a detailed list of what Cialis cannot do, medically and pharmacologically:
❌ What Cialis Cannot Do ?
1. Does NOT Cause an Erection Without Sexual Stimulation
- Cialis only works in response to sexual arousal.
- It enhances the natural erectile response, but does not cause automatic or spontaneous erections.
2. Does NOT Cure Erectile Dysfunction
- Cialis treats the symptoms of ED.
- It does not fix the underlying cause, such as:
- Nerve damage (e.g., post-prostatectomy)
- Vascular disease
- Psychological issues
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low testosterone)
3. Does NOT Increase Sexual Desire (Libido)
- Cialis is not an aphrodisiac.
- It does not affect testosterone levels, mood, or mental arousal.
- If a man has low libido due to depression, hormonal issues, or relationship problems, Cialis won’t help with that.
4. Does NOT Work Immediately
- Onset is typically 30 to 60 minutes after oral intake.
- Daily low-dose Cialis provides continuous readiness but still requires sexual stimulation.
5. Does NOT Treat Premature Ejaculation
- Cialis does not delay ejaculation or increase control over climax.
- Men with premature ejaculation may need other therapies (e.g., SSRIs like paroxetine, topical anesthetics).
6. Does NOT Protect Against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- Cialis has no effect on transmission or prevention of:
- HIV
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- HPV, etc.
- Condom use is still necessary for STI protection.
7. Does NOT Enhance Performance in Men Without ED
- In men with normal erectile function, Cialis generally does not improve erection quality.
- Recreational use may cause side effects without real benefit.
8. Cannot Be Used Safely With Certain Medications
- Cialis can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure when combined with:
- Nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide)
- Some alpha-blockers (e.g., doxazosin)
- Potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, ketoconazole) — may require dose adjustments
9. Does NOT Reverse Age-Related Erectile Decline Permanently
- While Cialis can temporarily help overcome vascular or age-related ED, it:
- Does not reverse arterial stiffening
- Does not regenerate nerve or endothelial tissue
- Is not a permanent solution — effect wears off when the drug clears from the body
10. Not Effective in Severe Cases of ED
- Cialis may not work well if:
- Blood flow to the penis is severely compromised (e.g., after pelvic surgery)
- There is complete nerve damage
- The cause of ED is psychogenic and severe, requiring therapy instead
? Summary Table
| Cialis Cannot Do | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Cause automatic erections | Needs sexual stimulation |
| Cure ED | Only treats symptoms |
| Boost libido | Does not affect desire |
| Delay ejaculation | Not effective for PE |
| Prevent STIs | No barrier function |
| Replace testosterone | Has no hormonal effects |
| Work with nitrates | Dangerous interaction |
| Treat psychological ED | May require therapy or counseling |
| Make healthy men “super-performers” | No effect if normal function exists |
| Work immediately | Needs 30–60 minutes to act |