Tadalafil (oral route)
It is important that you tell all of your doctors that you take tadalafil. This information is critical in ensuring your safety as certain medical emergencies, particularly those involving heart issues, could be exacerbated by your recent use of this medication. If you require emergency medical care for a heart problem, it is essential that your doctor is informed about the timing of your last dose of tadalafil, as this can significantly influence treatment decisions.
If you will be taking this medicine for pulmonary arterial hypertension, it is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. Consistent monitoring allows your healthcare provider to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication. Regular check-ups may include blood and urine tests to assess any potential side effects associated with the medication. Your doctor will use this data to determine if tadalafil is the right choice for you and whether adjustments in your treatment are necessary.
If you take tadalafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension, do not take Cialis® or other PDE5 inhibitors, including sildenafil (Revatio® or Viagra®) or vardenafil (Levitra®). This is crucial as taking these medications together can increase the risk of experiencing adverse side effects. Remember that Cialis® also contains tadalafil, which means that taking it alongside tadalafil can lead to an overdose situation. If you happen to take too much tadalafil or combine it with these other medications, you could be at a greater risk for experiencing significant side effects.
If you experience a prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours or a painful erection lasting more than 6 hours, contact your doctor immediately. This condition, known as priapism, may require urgent medical intervention to prevent serious and possibly irreversible damage to your penis. Your prompt action is vital in addressing this potentially dangerous side effect.
This medicine does not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV or AIDS). Therefore, it is advisable to use protective measures, such as condoms, to safeguard your health. If you have any questions or concerns about how to effectively protect yourself and your partner from sexually transmitted infections, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance.
It is important to tell your doctor about any heart problems you have now or may have had in the past. Medications like tadalafil can cause serious side effects, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Keeping your healthcare provider informed about your medical history is essential to prevent any adverse effects during treatment.
Do not use this medicine if you are also using riociguat (Adempas®) or a nitrate medicine, often used to treat angina (chest pain). Some examples of nitrate medications include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitrostat®, Nitro-Dur®, Transderm Nitro®, Nitrol® Ointment, and Nitrolingual® Spray. Additionally, beware of illegal "street" drugs often referred to as "poppers," which can contain nitrates as well. It is crucial to maintain a safe time frame: if you need to use a nitrate medicine, ensure you wait at least 48 hours after your last dose of tadalafil.
Do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol (e.g., 5 or more glasses of wine or 5 or more shots of whiskey) while taking tadalafil. High alcohol consumption can magnify certain side effects, including the likelihood of headaches or dizziness, and can also lead to an increased heart rate or lowered blood pressure, both of which can be dangerous. Moderation is key to maintaining your health and safety while on this medication.
If you experience sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, contact your doctor immediately. This symptom could indicate a serious condition requiring urgent attention, as it could lead to further complications if left untreated.
Check with your doctor right away if you have a sudden decrease in hearing or loss of hearing, which may be accompanied by dizziness and ringing in the ears. Such symptoms may be signs of an adverse reaction that needs to be addressed without delay.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor, as combining medications can increase the risk of serious side effects. This includes both prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines, as well as herbal or vitamin supplements. Always consult your healthcare provider before introducing any new treatments into your regimen to ensure your safety and well-being.