Tadalafil – Cialis
Tadalafil is a medication that belongs to a group of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It is known by the trade names Cialis (for the treatment of erectile dysfunction) and Adcirca (for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension).
Here are the characteristics of tadalafil
Mechanism of action
- Tadalafil works by blocking the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which normally breaks down a substance called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
- During sexual stimulation, the release of nitric oxide (NO) in the tissues of the penis increases levels of cGMP.
- This causes relaxation of the smooth muscles of the blood vessels and increased blood flow to the penis, allowing an erection to be achieved and maintained.
Indications
- Tadalafil is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (erectile dysfunction) in men.
- It is also used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension in the form of Adcirca.
Onset of action
- Tadalafil usually has a rapid onset of action, occurring about 30 minutes to 1 hour after taking it.
Duration of action
- The effects of tadalafil can last up to 36 hours, which is why it is often called the “weekend pill.”
- This means that men can achieve an erection for this entire time if they are sexually stimulated.
Dosage
- The usual dosage for treating erectile dysfunction is 10 mg or 20 mg, taken as needed approximately 30 minutes before planned sexual activity.
- For the treatment of BHP, a dose of 5 mg per day is usually used.
Side effects
- Common side effects of tadalafil may include headache, facial flushing, indigestion (e.g., nausea, diarrhea), dizziness, muscle pain, and backache.
- Rarely, serious side effects such as sudden vision loss or hearing loss may also occur.
Contraindications
- Tadalafil should not be taken with nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) because of a possible severe drop in blood pressure.
- It is contraindicated in patients with severe heart problems, recent myocardial infarction or stroke.
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