Can a woman take Cialis?

Cialis (tadalafil) is approved to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men. It is not FDA‑approved for women, but may be prescribed off‑label for female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Off‑label use means prescribing a drug for an indication not on its official label.

What would Cialis do to a woman?

Cialis is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE‑5) inhibitor that increases blood flow by relaxing blood vessels. In women, it may enhance genital blood flow, potentially improving lubrication, sensation, and sexual experience. However, FSD involves complex physical, psychological, and social factors, so benefits for desire or arousal are uncertain.

Tadalafil is also used under the name Adcirca to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension in both sexes, by relaxing lung blood vessels to improve exercise capacity.

What is female sexual dysfunction (FSD)?

FSD (also called female sexual arousal disorder) includes problems with:

  • Sexual arousal
  • Low sex drive (hypoactive sexual desire disorder)
  • Response to stimulation
  • Ability to orgasm
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Reduced lubrication

It is more common after menopause, when lower estrogen can reduce libido and vaginal moisture, leading to discomfort and decreased desire.

What side effects could occur in women taking Cialis?

Women taking tadalafil may experience similar effects as men, including:

  • Headache
  • Runny nose, sore throat or cold symptoms
  • Indigestion or stomach upset
  • Back pain

Rare but serious effects include:

  • Allergic reactions (hives, facial or throat swelling, difficulty breathing)
  • Dangerously low blood pressure, especially if combined with nitrates
  • Vision loss

Seek medical advice for any concerning symptoms.

Is there a female version of Cialis?

Two FDA‑approved treatments for low sexual desire in women:

  • Addyi (flibanserin): daily tablet for premenopausal women. Side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, insomnia. Alcohol and certain drugs increase risk of fainting and low blood pressure.
  • Vyleesi (bremelanotide): injectable taken 45 minutes before sex, up to 8 doses per month. Common side effects: nausea, injection‑site reactions, headache, flushing.

What other treatments are there for FSD?

Treating FSD often requires addressing underlying causes, including psychological, relational, or medical factors:

  • Sex or couples therapy
  • Hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal estrogen deficiency
  • Lifestyle changes: regular exercise, healthy diet, stress reduction, adequate sleep
  • Avoidance of tobacco, excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs

Sources

  • Borghi & Dell’Atti, Archivio Italiano di Urologia, Andrologia, 2017.
  • DailyMed: Tadalafil tablet prescribing information.
  • Wheeler & Guntupalli, Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2020.
  • Finley, American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 2018.
  • Vyleesi and Addyi package inserts.