pronounced as (tah da' la fil)
Cialis, known generically as Tadalafil, is a widely recognized medication that is primarily employed to address erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition in which men struggle to achieve or sustain an erection that is firm enough for sexual performance. This condition can lead to significant emotional distress and relationship issues. In addition to its role in treating ED, Cialis is also effective in relieving symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is defined as the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. BPH can result in troubling urinary symptoms such as the need for frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, or a sensation of urgency that can disrupt daily life. By enhancing blood flow to the penis, Cialis enables men to achieve an erection when they are sexually stimulated, which makes it a valuable option for those trying to manage the effects of ED.
Moreover, Cialis has additional beneficial applications. It is used to enhance exercise performance in individuals diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a serious condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the lung's arteries. Patients suffering from PAH often experience debilitating symptoms such as shortness of breath and extreme fatigue, particularly during physical activity. Cialis contributes to the relaxation of blood vessels in the lungs, which improves overall exercise tolerance and physical capacity.
It's essential to understand that while Cialis is effective in managing symptoms of ED and BPH, it does not directly increase sexual desire nor does it offer a cure for these conditions. Furthermore, Cialis does not serve as protection against sexually transmitted diseases or prevent pregnancy, and patients should be informed accordingly.
Cialis is available in the form of tablets and can be ingested either on an empty stomach or after meals. The specific dosage prescribed will depend on the severity of the patient’s symptoms and the recommendations made by the prescribing physician. For treating ED, it is typically advised that Cialis be taken at least 30 minutes prior to anticipated sexual activity, with a maximum allowance of one dose per day. This flexibility allows for spontaneous sexual encounters, which can be vital for maintaining intimacy in relationships.
In cases where Cialis is employed for the management of BPH or PAH, it is generally taken once daily at the same time each day. Adhering to the physician's instructions is critical, as deviations in dosage can result in adverse effects or reduced effectiveness. If any issues arise with the medication, such as insufficient results or unexpected side effects, patients are encouraged to consult their doctor for potential adjustments.
In addition to the primary uses mentioned, Cialis may be prescribed for other conditions not explicitly covered in this document. Patients should engage their healthcare provider to explore any other potential uses of Tadalafil and what implications this may have for their treatment.
Before Taking Cialis,
- Inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies to Tadalafil or any inactive components in the medication.
- Discuss your current medication regimen in detail, especially if you are taking nitrate medications (commonly prescribed for chest pain) or riociguat, as these combinations can result in severe health complications.
- Be open about your complete medical history, particularly regarding any cardiovascular issues, previous strokes, or eye-related problems.
- For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, a thorough consultation with a healthcare provider is imperative before initiating treatment with Cialis.
- Limit alcohol intake while using Cialis, as excessive consumption may enhance side effects and pose risks to your health.
- Disclose any herbal supplements or over-the-counter medications to your doctor, as certain products may interact negatively with Cialis.
It's advised to consult a physician regarding dietary considerations when taking Cialis, particularly concerning grapefruit, which can affect how the medication works in the body.
If you miss a dose of Cialis that you regularly take for ED, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the time for your next scheduled dose is near, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Never take two doses at once as this may lead to complications.
For those using Cialis for BPH or PAH, take the forgotten dose soon after remembering it, but skip it if it’s close to the time for your next dose to prevent doubling up and potential overuse.
Cialis May Cause Side Effects:
Common side effects that may arise during treatment include:
- Headaches
- Indigestion
- Back pain
- Muscle pain
- Facial flushing (the sensation of warmth, redness, or tingling)
- Upset stomach
Serious Side Effects:
Seek immediate medical assistance if you encounter any of the following serious side effects:
- Sudden loss of vision
- Sudden loss of hearing
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeats
- An erection lasting longer than four hours (priapism)
- Allergic reactions, notable through symptoms such as hives or difficulty breathing
It’s vital to communicate any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider so they can assess whether it's safe to continue using the medication or if alternatives should be considered.
Store Cialis at room temperature, away from excessive humidity and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of children's reach, and do not share your medicine with others. Dispose of any unused medications responsibly, ideally through a medication take-back program.
If an overdose occurs, contact emergency medical services immediately. It’s crucial that a healthcare professional evaluates the situation without delay to ensure appropriate care is provided.
Maintain a written record of all your medications and any health-related information to present during healthcare visits. Regular follow-ups with your physician are essential for assessing the effectiveness of your treatment regimen and for making necessary adjustments.
- Cialis®
- Adcirca®
- Entadfi® (a combination product with Finasteride)