What is Tadalafil Used to Treat?
Tadalafil, commonly known as Cialis, is a medication used to treat two main conditions: erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction refers to the difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Tadalafil helps by increasing blood flow to the penis, which supports an erection when a man is sexually aroused.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms such as difficulty in starting urination, a weak urine stream, and frequent or urgent urination. Tadalafil alleviates these symptoms by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder.
How Does Tadalafil Work?
Tadalafil works by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). This enzyme regulation allows for an increase in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels, which helps relax blood vessels and improves blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal.
How Should You Take Cialis?
Instructions for Use
- Read the Information Leaflet: Before starting Tadalafil, read the information leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Taking the Medication: Tadalafil is taken by mouth, with or without food, as directed by your doctor.
- Dosage: The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you are taking.
For BPH (enlarged prostate)
Take Tadalafil once daily as prescribed by your doctor. If you are also taking finasteride for BPH, consult your doctor about the duration of the treatment.
For Erectile Dysfunction
Tadalafil can be prescribed in two ways for ED:
- As Needed: Take it at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. Its effects can last up to 36 hours.
- Daily: Take it once daily, allowing for the possibility of sexual activity at any time between doses.
For Both ED and BPH
If prescribed for both conditions, take Tadalafil once a day as directed by your doctor.
Which is better Viagra (Sildenafil) or Cialis (Tadalafil)?
Taking Viagra
- Timing: Take Viagra on an empty stomach for optimal results. A large meal before taking the pill can slow down its effectiveness.
- Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake when using Viagra to maximise its effectiveness.
- Onset: Viagra must be taken at least one hour before sexual activity.
Taking Cialis
- Flexibility with Food: Cialis can be taken with or without food, providing more flexibility compared to Viagra.
- Alcohol: Like Viagra, it is best to limit alcohol intake while using Cialis.
- Onset: Cialis can be taken as little as 30 minutes before planned sexual activity.
Response Time
- Patience is Key: You may not respond to ED treatment the first time you take it. Try taking the tablet up to eight times before consulting your doctor about switching doses or treatments.
Comparing Cialis and Viagra
- Effectiveness: Both Cialis and Viagra help achieve and maintain an erection. Neither medication is inherently more powerful than the other.
- Duration: Cialis tends to work faster and its effects can last longer compared to Viagra.
- Frequency of Use: Cialis Daily is an option for men who engage in sexual activity three or more times a week, providing a continuous readiness compared to the on-demand use of Cialis and Viagra.
-
Interesting Fact
Viagra (sildenafil) was originally developed and tested as a treatment for angina. While it failed to address this, researchers noted an unexpected side effect: many men reported better erections.
Side Effects of Tadalafil
Common side effects may include:
- Headache
- Stomach upset
- Back pain
- Muscle pain
- Stuffy nose
- Flushing
- Dizziness
Serious Side Effects
- Sudden vision loss (non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, NAION)
- Sudden hearing loss
- Prolonged erection (priapism)
- Severe allergic reactions
If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking Tadalafil and seek medical help immediately.
What Drugs Can Interact with Cialis?
Tadalafil can interact with other medications, potentially leading to serious side effects:
- Nitrates: Using Tadalafil with nitrates (used for chest pain) can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- Alpha-blockers: Used for high blood pressure or prostate issues, can also lead to a significant drop in blood pressure.
- Other Medications: Such as antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), and HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., fosamprenavir, ritonavir).
Precautions Before Taking Tadalafil
Inform Your Doctor If You Have:
- Heart conditions (e.g., recent heart attack, irregular heartbeat, angina, heart failure)
- Recent stroke
- Kidney or liver disease
- High or low blood pressure
- Dehydration
- Penis conditions (e.g., Peyronie's disease)
- History of priapism
- Eye problems (e.g., retinitis pigmentosa, NAION)
- Bleeding disorders
- Active stomach ulcers
Lifestyle Considerations
- Dizziness: Tadalafil may cause dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you are sure you can perform these activities safely.
- Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake as it can increase the risk of side effects.
- Marijuana: Talk to your doctor if you use marijuana (cannabis), as it can also enhance dizziness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tadalafil
What is Cialis Used to Treat?
Cialis is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
How Does Cialis Work?
Cialis increases blood flow to the penis to help a man get and keep an erection and relaxes the smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder to relieve BPH symptoms.
How is Cialis Different from Other ED Treatments?
Cialis stays in the body longer than other ED treatments, allowing for more spontaneous sexual activity.
How Do I Take Cialis?
Take Cialis orally, as directed by your doctor, either as needed before sexual activity or once daily for continuous treatment.
What Are the Side Effects of Cialis?
Common side effects include headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle pain, flushing, and stuffy nose. Serious side effects include vision and hearing loss and prolonged erections.
What Should I Know About Cialis and Blood Pressure?
Cialis can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure when taken with nitrates or alpha-blockers. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Who Should Not Take Cialis?
Cialis should not be used by patients taking nitrates for chest pain or by those with certain heart conditions.
Can Cialis Be Used with Other Impotence Treatments?
The safety of Cialis with other impotence treatments has not been studied, and combined use is not recommended.
Words of Wisdom from a Consultant Urologist
Tadalafil offers a valuable option for treating erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia, significantly improving quality of life. Always follow your doctor's guidance and discuss any concerns or side effects you experience. Helathy eating, regular phsyical activity are essential for maintaining overall health and wellbeing.
