Cialis - side effects, use, action, indications

Cialis, the trade name for Tadalafil, is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The primary action of Cialis involves the relaxation of the smooth muscles in the blood vessels. This occurs due to the inhibition of a specific enzyme, phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5).

The inhibition of PDE-5 leads to an increase in the levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Higher levels of cGMP relax the smooth muscles, which in turn favors the increased blood flow into certain specific areas of the body. In the case of ED treatment, the increased blood flow targets the penis, thereby helping in achieving and maintaining an erection.

For BPH symptoms, the action of Cialis is a bit different. The relaxation of smooth muscles helps reduce the resistance to urine flow and reduces the need for prostate surgery. However, it should be noted that while Cialis can help manage symptoms, it does not cure BPH.

It's important to understand that Cialis doesn’t initiate an erection on its own. Sexual stimulation is required to kick start the process that Cialis can then assist with. This means that the drug is not an aphrodisiac and won't cause sexual excitement. Rather, it helps facilitate a normal physiological process.

Cialis, also known by its generic name tadalafil, is primarily indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, making it easier for a man to achieve and sustain an erection during sexual stimulation.

Further, Cialis may also be used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition in which the prostate gland becomes enlarged. Symptoms of BPH include difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently. Cialis works by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder, thereby improving the symptoms of BPH.

Additionally, in some cases, healthcare professionals may prescribe Cialis for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. Cialis helps to relax the blood vessels in the lungs, enabling the heart to pump blood more efficiently.

It's essential to note that Cialis should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and patients should strictly adhere to the prescribed dosage. Also, it's not indicated for women and children.

While Cialis is generally well tolerated, there are circumstances in which its use is contraindicated. These contraindications are precautions taken to avoid potential adverse reactions or side effects.

• Cialis should not be used by individuals who are allergic to tadalafil or any other component of the tablet.
• Concurrent use of Cialis with nitrate medications such as nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, or isosorbide mononitrate is contraindicated due to the risk of sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure.
• It is also not recommended for people suffering from severe liver or kidney disease. In these individuals, the drug may not be metabolized and eliminated from the body properly, leading to a higher risk of side effects.
• Men who have been advised to avoid sexual activity due to heart problems should not take Cialis. This is because the medication can cause an extra strain on the heart.
• Individuals with a history of stroke or heart attack within the past six months should not use Cialis.
• Cialis is contraindicated in individuals with a condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This condition causes sudden vision loss in one or both eyes.

In addition to these contraindications, it's important to note that Cialis should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider, and patients should fully disclose their medical history before starting the medication. If you're unsure whether Cialis is safe for you, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Cialis - Side Effects

Although Cialis is generally safe to use under a doctor's supervision, it can cause potential side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may not experience any at all. However, it's important to be aware of them so you can take action if they occur.

Common side effects of Cialis include:

• Headaches
• Indigestion or heartburn
• Back pain
• Nasal congestion
• Flushing (reddening of the skin)
• Muscle aches

These side effects may go away after a few hours. If they persist or become bothersome, please consult your healthcare provider.

Uncommon, but more serious side effects include:

• An erection that won't go away (priapism)
• Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
• Sudden hearing loss or decrease in hearing

If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking Cialis and seek medical help immediately.

It's important to remember that Cialis should not be used in combination with nitrates or nitric oxide donors as this can cause a serious drop in blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness, fainting, heart attack, or stroke.

The dosage of Cialis depends largely on the specific needs and medical condition of the individual patient. It should always be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

In general, the recommended starting dose for Cialis to treat erectile dysfunction is 10 mg, taken one hour before sexual activity. However, the dose may be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg, based on individual efficacy and tolerability. This medication can be taken with or without food.

For the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the recommended dose of Cialis is 5 mg, taken at the same time every day. For those treating both erectile dysfunction and BPH simultaneously, the recommended dose is also 5 mg taken at the same time every day.

In case of pulmonary arterial hypertension, Cialis is usually taken once daily, and the dosage can vary between 20-40 mg based on the patient's response to the medication.

It is important not to exceed the prescribed dosage of Cialis, as this can result in adverse side effects. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Patients with liver or kidney disease, or those who are older than 65, may need a lower dose. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the most appropriate dosage.

Cialis is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It functions by relaxing the smooth muscle in the walls of blood vessels, allowing for increased blood flow to specific areas of the body, such as the penis. Consequently, Cialis can help to promote and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation.

Before using Cialis, it is vital to read the patient information leaflet provided by the pharmacist. This medication is typically taken as needed, prior to sexual activity, or once a day for chronic conditions. The dosage and frequency depend on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment. It can be consumed with or without food, though high-fat meals may delay the medication’s onset of action.

It is important to note that Cialis should not be taken more than once a day. The user should avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol while using this medication, as it can increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects. Moreover, the user should not take Cialis if they are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems, as this may cause a sudden and dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Patients should also be aware that Cialis does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), so safer sex practices, like using condoms, must be employed. Lastly, the user should inform their healthcare provider of all the products they use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, to avoid potential interactions.

It's vital to consider certain precautions before starting a therapeutic course with Cialis. Although Cialis is a safe medication for most people, it may pose a risk in particular situations.

Firstly, if you have a history of heart problems such as heart attack, stroke, or life-threatening irregular heart rate within the past six months, you should refrain from using Cialis. It's also not advisable for people with certain types of eye diseases, like retinitis pigmentosa, or if you have ever suffered from sudden severe vision loss.

Secondly, Cialis should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver problems. The dosage might need to be adjusted or an alternative treatment may need to be considered.

Thirdly, Cialis can cause a sudden decrease in blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting. This is more likely if you're taking medication to lower your blood pressure, or have high blood pressure that is not controlled. Avoid consuming alcohol as it can also lower your blood pressure and increase side effects of Cialis.

Lastly, discuss with your doctor about all the medicines you are currently taking including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Cialis can interact with other medications, particularly nitrates and blood pressure medicines, leading to potentially serious effects.

Remember, Cialis is only for use in adults. It's not suitable for use in women and the safety and efficacy in children haven't been established.

Cialis, also known as Tadalafil, is a medicine commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hypertrophy. However, it is important to be aware of potential interactions that Cialis can have with other medications or substances. These interactions can either decrease the effectiveness of Cialis or potentially lead to unwanted side effects.

One major interaction is with nitrates, commonly used in heart disease treatment. When Cialis is taken with nitrates, it could cause a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure. Therefore, it's crucial that individuals taking medications like nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate, and isosorbide dinitrate avoid Cialis.

Another significant interaction is with alpha-blockers, which are medications used for high blood pressure or prostate disorders. Combining these medications with Cialis can also lead to a serious drop in blood pressure.

Other drugs known to interact with Cialis include antifungals like ketoconazole and itraconazole, antibiotics such as erythromycin and clarithromycin, and HIV drugs like ritonavir and saquinavir. Furthermore, grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Cialis and lead to unwanted side effects.

It's also worth noting that Cialis can enhance the blood pressure lowering effects of certain drugs such as doxazosin, tamsulosin, and prazosin. Therefore, if you are taking any of these medications, discuss with your healthcare provider before starting Cialis.

Finally, it's important to remember that this is not a complete list of possible drug interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information applies to your personal circumstances and that you take Cialis safely.

The price of Cialis can vary depending on several factors. It is typically available in different dosages, each with a different price point. Generally, the price per pill decreases as the quantity purchased increases. For instance, a 5mg dose might cost around $13 per pill if bought in smaller quantities but could go down to around $8 per pill if bought in larger quantities.

It's also important to note that the price can vary significantly from one pharmacy to another. Some online pharmacies may offer lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores. Additionally, generic versions of Cialis, known as tadalafil, are typically much cheaper than the brand-name drug. However, you should always ensure you are purchasing from a reputable source to avoid counterfeit products.

Some health insurance plans may cover the cost of Cialis, so it's worth checking with your provider. In some cases, you may be able to get a discount or even get the medication for free through patient assistance programs if you meet certain eligibility criteria.

In conclusion, while Cialis can be quite expensive, there are ways to potentially reduce the cost. Always compare prices before purchasing and consider generic alternatives if they are available and appropriate for you.

When looking for substitutes for Cialis, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that the alternative will be safe and effective. Several drugs, similar in action to Cialis, are available on the market. However, each substitute has its own set of characteristics, side effects, and contraindications.

Among the most commonly mentioned substitutes for Cialis are:

• Viagra (Sildenafil): This is probably the most well-known substitute for Cialis. Although it works similarly to Cialis, its effect lasts for about four to six hours, which is less than the 36 hours provided by Cialis.
• Levitra (Vardenafil): Just like Viagra, Levitra is effective for about four to six hours. However, it is reported to be more effective than Viagra in some cases, especially for men with diabetes.
• Stendra (Avanafil): This is a newer medication that starts working faster than Viagra and Cialis – in as little as 15 minutes. However, it also works for a shorter period than Cialis.
• Staxyn (Vardenafil): This is another substitute for Cialis that is meant to be dissolved on the tongue rather than swallowed. It can start working in as little as 15 minutes and its effects can last for about four to six hours.

It's crucial to remember that while these drugs can serve as substitutes for Cialis, they may not be suitable for everyone. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before switching to a different medication. Also, the effectiveness and safety of these substitutes can vary from person to person.