Cialis(Tadalafil)

Description

Overview:

Cialis is the brand name for tadalafil, a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and pulmonary arterial hypertension (under the brand name Adcirca). It is part of the PDE5 inhibitor class of drugs, similar to Viagra (sildenafil), but has a significantly longer duration of action.

Mechanism of Action:

Tadalafil works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5).

• This inhibition increases the levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which promotes relaxation of smooth muscle and improved blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.

• In BPH, it helps relax muscles in the bladder and prostate, easing urinary symptoms.

Note: Like Viagra, Cialis requires sexual arousal to be effective for ED.

Uses:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – FDA approved for urinary symptoms like difficulty urinating or frequent urination

• ED + BPH combination

• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (Adcirca)

Dosage:

For Erectile Dysfunction:

• As needed: 10 mg before anticipated sexual activity; can be adjusted between 5–20 mg

• Daily use: 2.5 mg or 5 mg once a day for continuous effectiveness

For BPH or ED+BPH:

• 5 mg once daily

Onset: 30–60 minutes
Duration: Up to 36 hours (“the weekend pill” nickname)

Side Effects:

Common:

• Headache

• Indigestion

• Back pain

• Muscle aches

• Flushing

• Nasal congestion

Rare but serious:

• Priapism (prolonged erection)

• Sudden hearing or vision loss

• Hypotension (especially if taken with nitrates)

• Allergic reactions

Contraindications:

• Do not use with nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) – can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure

• Use with caution in patients with:

  • Heart problems

  • Liver or kidney disease

  • Retinal disorders (e.g., retinitis pigmentosa)

Drug Interactions:

• Nitrates (contraindicated)

• Alpha-blockers (may cause hypotension)

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) can increase tadalafil levels

Advantages:

• Longer duration of action (up to 36 hours) allows for more spontaneity

• Once-daily dosing option for continuous support

• Also treats BPH symptoms, making it a dual-purpose medication

• Well tolerated with a low risk of dependency

Disadvantages:

• Slower onset compared to some other ED medications

• More expensive in brand-name form (but generics are available)

• Some patients may experience prolonged muscle or back pain

Conclusion:

Cialis (tadalafil) is a versatile and long-acting treatment for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia. With its flexible dosing options and extended effect window, it offers a convenient and reliable option for many men seeking greater sexual confidence and relief from urinary symptoms.