Researchers in Italy tested tadalafil on mouse muscle cells in a laboratory over seven days, examining cell growth, survival and development. The study, published in Molecular Biology Reports, found more muscle precursor cells and improved survival among those cells after exposure to the drug. It also found delayed development into mature muscle cells.
The results do not establish that tadalafil increases muscle size, strength or recovery in humans. The research was conducted on mouse cells, not in a clinical trial, and its short duration leaves longer-term effects unknown.
Study co-author Cristina Antinozzi, a researcher at the University of Rome Foro Italico, described the findings as an early indication that tadalafil might have a role in muscle tissue repair, while emphasizing that additional research is needed.
Kien Vuu, a Los Angeles radiologist who was not involved in the research, said the cell findings do not demonstrate that Cialis builds muscle or improves recovery in people. He said further research would need to assess outcomes such as muscle mass, strength, physical function and safety.
Vuu also cautioned against using tadalafil for muscle-building based on the study. The source report notes that the drug can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure when taken with nitrates. The study provides no basis for changing medication or treatment decisions.
