Tadalafil (oral route)
It is absolutely critical that you inform every one of your healthcare providers that you are taking tadalafil. This communication is vital, especially if you require emergency medical assistance due to a heart condition. Your healthcare provider must be aware of the timing of your last dose of tadalafil, as this can significantly influence treatment decisions in urgent situations.
If you are prescribed this medication for pulmonary arterial hypertension, then regular follow-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor your health progress. These scheduled visits allow your doctor to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication and decide whether you should continue its use. In some cases, routine blood and urine tests may be necessary to monitor for any potential adverse effects that could arise from the treatment.
In cases where tadalafil is utilized for pulmonary arterial hypertension, it is crucially important not to use Cialis® or other medications classified as PDE5 inhibitors. This includes drugs like sildenafil (found in Revatio® or Viagra®) or vardenafil (Levitra®). Notably, Cialis® contains tadalafil as well. If you inadvertently take excessive quantities of tadalafil or combine it with any of these medications, the likelihood of experiencing negative side effects will considerably increase.
If you find yourself having an erection lasting longer than 4 hours, or if you experience pain during an erection that persists beyond 6 hours, you must reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. Such conditions could necessitate urgent medical intervention to avert severe and possibly lasting damage to your genitalia.
It is critical to understand that this medication does not offer any protection against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV or AIDS. Appropriate protective measures should always be taken, and do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider with any related queries or concerns.
Additionally, you must communicate with your physician regarding any heart issues you currently have or have had in the past. This medication can provoke serious side effects in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, making such disclosures crucial for your safety.
Do not proceed with using this medication concurrently with riociguat (Adempas®) or any nitrate medications, which are commonly employed to manage angina (chest pain). The nitrate class includes medications such as nitroglycerin, isosorbide, and several combinations of these, including Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitrostat®, Nitro-Dur®, Transderm Nitro®, Nitrol® Ointment, and Nitrolingual® Spray. Be cautious as some illicit substances, colloquially known as “poppers” (like amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite), are also nitrate-containing. If there is a need for nitrate use, ensure you allow at least a 48-hour gap following your last dose of tadalafil.
Be mindful and avoid excessive alcohol consumption (for example, drinking 5 or more glasses of wine or the equivalent of 5 or more shots of whiskey) while on tadalafil. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to heightened risks of headaches, dizziness, increased heart rate, or a significant drop in blood pressure.
If you experience any sudden loss of vision in either one or both eyes, it is imperative that you contact your healthcare provider without delay.
Be sure to reach out to your doctor immediately should you notice a sudden decline in your hearing or any total loss of hearing, particularly if these changes are accompanied by dizziness and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Furthermore, do not commence any other medications unless they have been thoroughly discussed and approved by your healthcare provider. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, as well as herbal or vitamin supplements.