Tadalafil (Cialis) is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. In addition, it alleviates symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is the enlargement of the prostate, leading to challenges such as difficulty urinating, which encompasses hesitancy, dribbling, a weak stream, and incomplete emptying of the bladder. Men experiencing painful urination, increased frequency, and urgency of urination can also benefit from tadalafil. Another significant application of tadalafil is in the enhancement of exercise capacity in individuals diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition marked by elevated blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, causing symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. Tadalafil is a member of a pharmaceutical class known as phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors and works by stimulating increased blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, leading to an erection. Furthermore, in the context of PAH, tadalafil functions by relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs, enhancing blood flow.
If you're considering tadalafil specifically for erectile dysfunction, it's crucial to recognize that it does not provide a cure for this condition and doesn't enhance sexual desire. Additionally, tadalafil is not an effective means of contraception and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Tadalafil is available in oral tablet form and can be ingested with or without food, depending on personal preference and tolerance.
When using tadalafil to address erectile dysfunction, it is essential to adhere to your healthcare provider's recommendations and the detailed instructions provided herein. There are two principal methodologies for dosing: tadalafil can be consumed daily or used as needed. It is advisable to engage in a discussion with your healthcare provider to determine the dosing strategy that best fits your individual needs. For those reporting erectile dysfunction, tadalafil is often taken on an as-needed basis, typically at least 30 minutes prior to planned sexual activity, and should not be taken more than once every 24 hours. Your healthcare provider will assist in deciding the optimal timing for your tadalafil intake relative to sexual engagement. Alternatively, tadalafil can be consumed daily, without regard to the timing of sexual acts, thereby granting the flexibility to engage in sexual activity at any point between doses. If utilizing tadalafil on a regular schedule, aim to take it at approximately the same time every day. Certain health conditions or concurrent medications may lead your physician to recommend a reduced frequency or a lower daily dose. Please diligently follow the instructions included on your prescription label and do not hesitate to seek clarification from your doctor or pharmacist for any uncertainties. Always take tadalafil precisely as directed, without altering the dosage or frequency unless advised by your healthcare provider.
For individuals taking tadalafil in the context of PAH or BPH, it is imperative to follow your healthcare provider's directives closely. The standard recommendation is to take tadalafil once daily. Ensure that all tablets intended for your daily dosage are consumed at the same time each day; splitting the tablets for separate doses is not advised. Establish a consistent routine by taking tadalafil at the same time each day. If you are currently on medication for BPH, your healthcare provider may instruct you to discontinue that medication at least one day before initiating tadalafil treatment. Adhere to your healthcare provider's guidelines and seek clarification for any parts that remain unclear.
Patients using tadalafil for erectile dysfunction may initially be prescribed a moderate dose, which could subsequently be adjusted based on their therapeutic response. It is essential to communicate any lack of efficacy or the emergence of side effects to your healthcare provider.
If you are consuming tadalafil for PAH, please acknowledge that while tadalafil assists in managing the condition, it does not offer a cure. Continue the medication even if you feel well, and do not cease usage without consulting your healthcare provider first.
For additional information, consider requesting a printed copy of the manufacturer's patient information from your pharmacist or physician.
Occasionally, tadalafil is prescribed for indications outside its primary uses; consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further information.
Before Taking Tadalafil
- Inform your physician and pharmacist regarding any known allergies to tadalafil, other medications, or any components included in the tadalafil tablet formulation. Feel free to request a complete ingredient list from your pharmacist.
- Notify your healthcare provider if you are currently taking or have recently taken riociguat (Adempas) or nitrates, which include medications such as isosorbide dinitrate (Isordil), isosorbide mononitrate (Monoket), and nitroglycerin (Minitran, Nitro-Dur, Nitromist, Nitrostat, etc.). Nitrates are available in various forms, including oral tablets, sublingual tablets, sprays, patches, pastes, and ointments. If you are uncertain whether your medications contain nitrates, consult your physician. It is likely your healthcare provider will advise against taking tadalafil if you are concurrently using nitrates.
- Alert your doctor if you are consuming illicit drugs that contain nitrates, commonly known as "poppers," such as amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite while on tadalafil. It is probable that your healthcare provider will recommend discontinuing tadalafil usage if you are utilizing such substances.
- Be mindful that tadalafil is marketed under the names Adcirca and Cialis; you should only be treated with one of these formulations at any given time.
- Disclose to your physician and pharmacist any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary supplements you are currently taking or plan to initiate. Be sure to mention medications such as alpha-blockers (alfuzosin, doxazosin, dutasteride, etc.), amiodarone, certain antifungals (fluconazole, itraconazole, etc.), and a variety of others listed in detail earlier. Your healthcare provider might need to adjust the dosages of your medications or closely monitor you for any adverse effects.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any herbal supplements you take, especially St. John’s wort.
- Notify your doctor if you smoke, have experienced an erection lasting more than four hours, or have gone through recent episodes of diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, or excessive sweating. Discuss any history of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD), conditions affecting the shape of the penis, diabetes, blood pressure irregularities, heart problems, or eye diseases.
- If you are a female taking tadalafil for PAH, inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Contact your provider if you become pregnant while on tadalafil.
- Before undergoing surgery, including dental procedures, inform your healthcare provider or dentist of your current use of tadalafil.
- Discuss the safe consumption of alcohol while on tadalafil with your healthcare provider. Excessive alcohol intake can heighten the chances of side effects such as dizziness or low blood pressure.
- If you're on tadalafil for erectile dysfunction, let your physician know if you've been advised to avoid sexual activity or have experienced chest pain during sexual encounters.
- Inform all healthcare providers that you are currently taking tadalafil, particularly in emergencies.
Consult your healthcare provider regarding the consumption of grapefruit juice while taking tadalafil, as it may affect drug metabolism.
If you regularly take tadalafil for erectile dysfunction and miss a dose, consume it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, omit the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not take two doses to make up for a missed one.
If you miss a dose while taking tadalafil for PAH or BPH, take it as soon as you recall. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosage regimen. Do not double doses.
Tadalafil may cause side effects. Contact your healthcare provider if any of the following symptoms are severe or persist:
- Headache
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Flushing
- Back pain, muscle pain, or pain in the arms or legs
- Cough
Some side effects may be serious. If you encounter the following symptoms, seek immediate medical assistance:
- Sudden decrease or loss of vision
- Blurred vision
- Changes in color vision
- Sudden decrease or loss of hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Erection lasting more than four hours (priapism)
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Hives or rash
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, or other body parts
- Peeling skin or unusual bumps
Some individuals have reported sudden vision loss after taking tadalafilo or similar medications, with some cases being permanent. The causative factors remain unclear. If you experience such an occurrence, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Similarly, sudden hearing loss has been reported in some patients, primarily affecting one ear. If this arises, prompt medical consultation is essential.
Additional side effects may occur; if you notice anything unusual while taking this medication, consult your physician at once.
Serious side effects can be reported to the FDA's MedWatch program via their website or by phone at 1-800-332-1088.
Store this medication in its original packaging, securely closed and out of children's reach. Maintain it at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Medications that are no longer required should be disposed of safely to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets. Avoid flushing medications down the toilet; instead, refer to your pharmacist for local drug take-back programs. For more details on safe disposal, check the FDA website.
It is paramount to keep all medications out of children's sight and reach, as many containers are not child-resistant. Implement safety measures, use safety caps, and place medications in secure locations away from children's reach.
In the event of an overdose, contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or visit their website for further assistance. If someone is unresponsive, has difficulty breathing, or has had a seizure, call emergency services at 911 without delay.
Ensure you attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.
Do not share your medication with others. If you have questions regarding prescription refills, consult your pharmacist.
Maintain an updated list of all medications, including prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, as well as vitamins and supplements. Carry this list during medical appointments or hospital visits, as it is crucial for emergency situations.
- Adcirca®
- Cialis®
- Entadfi® (a combination product containing finasteride and tadalafil)