Cialis Together has become the second erectile dysfunction treatment to be approved for reclassification as a Pharmacy medicine, the MHRA announced today (March 14).

If marketed, the product, which contains 10mg tadalafil citrate, will be available to buy from pharmacies following a consultation with a pharmacist.

“Pharmacists will be able to determine whether treatment is appropriate for the patient and can give advice on erectile dysfunction, usage of the medicine, potential side effects, and if further consultation with a general practitioner is required,” said the watchdog, which based its decision on its own “reassuring” safety assessment as well as advice from the Commission on Human Medicines.

The product will not be sold to men with or at risk of severe cardiovascular disorders, severe kidney or liver failure, or men taking a medication that has the potential to interact with Cialis. These patients may only take the medicine under the supervision of a doctor.

This is the second major POM to P switch for an erectile dysfunction medicine, with Viagra Connect (sildenafil) having been reclassified in 2018.

Erectile dysfunction treatments are a “popular target” for criminals selling unlicensed and counterfeit medicines, said the MHRA, with “millions of pounds” worth of product seized each year by government agencies.

Dr Laura Squire, chief officer for healthcare, quality and access with the MHRA, commented: “This decision is good news for men’s health. Men who suffer from erectile dysfunction will be able to obtain this treatment safely and conveniently from their local pharmacy without a prescription, which not only gives them greater control over their choices but increases awareness of erectile dysfunction.

“Erectile dysfunction can be a debilitating condition, so it’s important men feel they have fast access to quality and legitimate care.

“We will continue to listen to and engage with patients to improve access to a wide range of medicinal products when it is safe to do so.”