Cialis (Tadalafil)

Cialis (tadalafil) is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. The medication works by relaxing the smooth muscle in blood vessels to increase blood flow. In addition to erectile dysfunction, this drug can help manage the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate/BPH), such as difficulty urinating and an increased urgency to urinate.

Directions

Cialis is taken by mouth as a tablet, with or without food, and swallowed with water. For erectile dysfunction, the usual starting dose is 10 mg at least 30 minutes before sex. The dosage may be adjusted to between 5 mg and 20 mg, but it should not be taken more than once a day. For the daily treatment of erectile dysfunction, the dose is typically 2.5 mg once a day (which may be increased to 5 mg). For BPH or both conditions together, the dosage is usually 5 mg once daily at the same time each day.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in this drug is tadalafil.

Cautions

• Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
  • Any existing health conditions
  • Any allergies
  • A list of all medications currently being taken
• Before starting Cialis, a proper medical check is key to look for any underlying causes of erectile dysfunction or urinary symptoms. Because sexual activity itself can strain the heart, Cialis shouldn't be used by people whose heart condition makes sexual activity unsafe.
• Cialis should never be taken with nitrates (like nitroglycerin), as the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Those who develop chest pain after taking Cialis should avoid nitrates and get emergency medical care.
• A long-lasting or painful erection that lasts more than 4 hours can damage the penis and needs emergency treatment. Cialis should be used with caution in people who have blood disorders or certain penile conditions that increase the risk of this problem.
• Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes has been reported with drugs like Cialis. People with a history of certain eye disorders or previous episodes of vision loss should talk to their doctor before using it and stop the medication if vision changes occur.
• Sudden hearing loss, sometimes with ringing or dizziness, has also been reported. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should stop the medication and seek medical attention.
• Cialis can interact with medications used for blood pressure or prostate problems, especially alpha-blockers, and may cause dizziness or fainting. A lower dose is typically started in these situations to lower the risk of low blood pressure.
• People with kidney or liver problems may need adjustments in their dose, and in some cases Cialis may not be recommended. Drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking Cialis can also increase the chance of dizziness or low blood pressure.
• Cialis should not be combined with other erectile dysfunction medications. It also does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so safe-sex practices are still important.
• Before using Cialis for urinary symptoms related to an enlarged prostate, doctors may check for other possible causes, including prostate cancer, since these conditions can overlap.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Taking nitrate medications for chest pain or heart problems
• Taking riociguat for pulmonary hypertension
• Allergic to tadalafil or any ingredients in Cialis
• Taking certain guanylate cyclase stimulators

Side Effects

Common side effects of Cialis include:

• Headache
• Indigestion
• Back pain
• Muscle aches
• Flushing
• Stuffy or runny nose

These effects are usually mild and tend to go away within a few hours. Back pain and muscle aches may appear 12–24 hours after taking Cialis and typically resolve within 48 hours. Most people tolerate the medication well, but you should contact your healthcare provider if any symptom is persistent or bothersome.

More serious reactions can occur, although they are uncommon. These include priapism (an erection lasting more than 4 hours) which requires immediate medical care to prevent long-term damage. Rare reports also include vision or color-vision changes, sudden loss of vision, and sudden hearing loss with ringing or dizziness. If you notice sudden changes in vision, hearing, or experience severe or prolonged erections, stop taking Cialis and seek medical attention right away.