Cialis
Generic Name: Tadalafil
What is Cialis?
Cialis is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Cialis may help men with ED get and keep an erection that is satisfactory for sexual activity when he is sexually stimulated.What is the most important information I should know about Cialis?
You should not take Cialis if you have been instructed by your doctor not to engage in sexual activity due to heart disease or other heart problems. Cialis must never be used by men who are taking medicines that contain nitrates of any kind, at any time. If you take Cialis with any nitrate medicine, your blood pressure could suddenly drop to an unsafe or life-threatening level.Cialis does not cure ED, increase a man's sexual desire, serve as a male form of birth control, or protect a man or his partner from sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.
Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to this medication. Cialis may cause dizziness, drowsiness, fainting, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines.
Cialis may rarely cause a prolonged, painful erection that lasts more than 4 hours. This could happen even when you are not having sex. If this is not treated right away, it could lead to permanent sexual problems such as impotence. Contact your doctor right away if this happens.
Cialis may uncommonly cause mild, temporary vision changes such as blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and blue/green color tint to vision. Contact your doctor if vision changes persist or are severe.
Stop sexual activity and get medical help right away if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sex. Sexual activity can put an extra strain on your heart, especially if your heart is already weak from a heart attack or heart disease.
Cialis may cause sudden hearing loss, which may be accompanied by dizziness and a slight ringing sound in the ears. In this case seek medical attention immediately.
Who should not take Cialis?
Do not use Cialis if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Also, do not take this drug if you are taking nitrates, which are commonly used to treat angina (chest pain).Do not take Cialis if you have had a heart attack within the past 90 days or a stroke within the past 6 months.
Cialis is not for use by women or children.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Cialis?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Cialis. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart problems, high or low blood pressure, had a heart attack, had a stroke, are taking nitrates or other blood pressure medications, have liver or kidney problems, eye disease, severe vision loss, stomach ulcers, bleeding problems, a deformed penis, or blood problems.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.For Use as Needed
Adults: The usual starting dose of Cialis is 10 milligrams (mg) daily. Your dose may be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg daily based on effectiveness and tolerability. Cialis should only be taken once daily prior to anticipated sexual activity.
For Once-daily Use
Adults: The usual dose is 2.5 mg taken once daily, taken at approximately the same time every day, without regard to timing of sexual activity. This dose may be increased to 5 mg based upon effectivenessand tolerability.
If you suffer from kidney dysfunction or undergo hemodialysis, your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose for you.
How should I take Cialis?
For use as needed: Take Cialis at least 30 minutes before sexual activity, as directed by your doctor. Cialis may work for up to 36 hours after you take it.For daily use: Take Cialis regularly at about the same time each day.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about how you should take Cialis.
What should I avoid while taking Cialis?
Do not drink heavily; excess alcohol can increase your chances of getting a headache or getting dizzy, increasing your heart rate, or lowering your blood pressure.Cialis may cause dizziness, drowsiness, fainting, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Cialis with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to this medication.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Cialis?
If Cialis is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Cialis with the following: erythromycin, grapefruit juice, HIV protease inhibitors, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nitrates, rifampin, and doxazosin.The effects of blood pressure medications may be increased, causing low blood pressure. Make sure to inform your doctor of any blood pressure medications you are taking.
What are the possible side effects of Cialis?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: back pain, flushing, dizziness, stomach upset, headache, indigestion, muscle aches, stuffy or runny nose
Can I receive Cialis if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Cialis is not for use in women.What should I do if I miss a dose of Cialis?
If you are taking Cialis as needed and you miss a dose but you still intend to engage in sexual activity, take it as soon as you remember. Continue to take it as directed by your doctor. If you are taking Cialis daily and you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Cialis?
Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
