Tadalafil (Cialis) is utilized mainly to alleviate erectile dysfunction (ED), also referred to as impotence, characterized by the inability to achieve or sustain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Additionally, it addresses symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition marked by an enlarged prostate. Symptoms of BPH may include challenges in urination such as hesitancy, dribbling, a weak urinary stream, and the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. Furthermore, individuals suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) can benefit from tadalafil, as it enhances exercise capacity by managing high blood pressure in the vessels supplying the lungs, which may otherwise result in breathlessness, dizziness, and fatigue. Tadalafil is categorized as a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor; it enhances erectile function by promoting increased blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal, and it assists in reducing PAH by relaxing pulmonary blood vessels.
It is imperative to understand that while tadalafil is effective in managing the symptoms of ED, it is not a cure for the condition nor does it enhance sexual desire. Furthermore, it does not provide protection against unintended pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections, including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Tadalafil is available in a convenient tablet form for oral administration. Patients may consume it with or without food, providing flexibility in dosing.
For those utilizing tadalafil to manage erectile dysfunction, it's crucial to adhere to your healthcare provider's instructions meticulously. Tadalafil can be taken in two primary regimens: either as a daily dose or as needed prior to sexual activity. Consultation with your doctor will help determine the most appropriate regimen tailored to your needs. For those opting for as-needed dosing, the medication should ideally be taken at least 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity, and not exceeding one dose within a 24-hour period. Your physician will guide you on the optimal timing for taking tadalafil in relation to sexual engagement. Alternatively, if you are prescribed tadalafil for daily use, take it consistently at the same time each day regardless of sexual activity. If you have underlying health issues or are taking other medications, your doctor may request less frequent dosing or recommend a reduced daily dosage. Always follow the specific directions provided on your medication label, and consult your doctor or pharmacist if any instructions are unclear. It is vital to take tadalafil precisely as prescribed. Adjustments in dosage or frequency without professional guidance should be avoided.
When prescribed for the treatment of PAH or BPH, the standard recommendation is to take tadalafil once daily. Ensure you consume your daily dose at the same time each day; refrain from splitting the tablets into smaller doses. If you are currently taking other medications for BPH, consult your doctor about ceasing those treatments at least one day before commencing tadalafil. Follow any specific directives from your physician diligently, and feel free to seek clarification on any points of uncertainty.
For individuals using tadalafil for erectile dysfunction, your healthcare provider may initiate treatment with a moderate dose, adjusting up or down based on your response to the medication. If you find that tadalafil is not yielding results, or if you experience adverse effects, promptly report your experience to your healthcare provider.
For those managing PAH, it's essential to recognize that while tadalafil effectively controls the condition, it does not cure it. Continue using tadalafil consistently even if you feel well, and do not discontinue use without consulting your physician.
Should you require further information, do not hesitate to contact your pharmacist or physician for a copy of the manufacturer’s patient information.
This medication may sometimes be prescribed for other medical conditions; please inquire with your healthcare provider for detailed information.
Before Taking Tadalafil
- It is essential to inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to tadalafil, its components, or any other medications you are currently taking. Request a comprehensive list of ingredients from your pharmacist.
- Let your doctor know if you are currently taking or have recently stopped medications such as riociguat (Adempas) or any forms of nitrates, including isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, or nitroglycerin. Due to potential interactions, your healthcare provider may recommend against using tadalafil concurrently with nitrates.
- Notify your doctor if you are using illegal drugs known as “poppers,” which include amyl nitrate or butyl nitrate, as this could contraindicate the use of tadalafil.
- Tadalafil is available under the trade names Adcirca and Cialis; use only one of these brands at any given time for treatment.
- Disclose all prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking to your healthcare provider. Be particularly attentive to mentioning medications such as alpha-blockers, amiodarone, certain antifungals, and various other medications outlined in the provided literature.
- Make your healthcare provider aware of any herbal products in your regimen, particularly St. John's Wort.
- Advise your doctor if you smoke, have experienced prolonged erections, or have recently faced dehydration issues due to vomiting or diarrhea. It's important to inform them of any significant medical history involving conditions like pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, diabetes, or heart-related issues.
- Women considering tadalafil for PAH should notify their healthcare provider if they are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding. Report any changes in pregnancy status during treatment.
- If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental procedures, apprise your surgeon or dentist of your use of tadalafil.
- Discuss with your healthcare provider the implications of alcohol consumption while using tadalafil, as excessive drinking may heighten the risk of side effects such as dizziness or low blood pressure.
- If you have been advised to refrain from sexual activity for medical reasons, or if you've experienced any angina during sex, inform your doctor immediately, as sexual activity could impose additional strain on your heart.
- Ensure all healthcare providers are aware that you are on tadalafil, particularly in emergencies, so they can make informed decisions regarding treatment.
Consult your healthcare provider regarding the consumption of grapefruit juice while on this medication, as it may interact with tadalafil.
If you are on tadalafil for erectile dysfunction and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule without doubling up.
In the case of missed doses for PAH or BPH, take the missed dose promptly. Similarly, if it's time for the next dose, omit the missed dose and resume your normal schedule without doubling doses.
Tadalafil may cause side effects. Inform your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- indigestion or heartburn
- nausea
- diarrhea
- flushing
- pain in the stomach, back, muscles, arms, or legs
- cough
Some side effects may be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:
- sudden decrease or loss of vision (see more information below)
- blurred vision
- changes in color vision (seeing a blue tinge to objects or having difficulty differentiating between blue and green)
- sudden decrease or loss of hearing (see more information below)
- ringing in the ears
- erection lasting more than 4 hours
- dizziness
- chest pain
- hives
- rash
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or calves
- blisters or peeling of the skin
A subset of patients has reported experiencing sudden vision loss after taking tadalafil or similar drugs, with some cases leading to permanent vision impairment. The causative relationship with the medication remains unclear. Should you experience sudden changes in vision while on tadalafil, seek immediate medical help and refrain from taking further doses of tadalafil or related medications such as sildenafil or vardenafil until consulting with your physician.
Instances of sudden hearing loss have also been documented following tadalafil administration, typically affecting one ear. In some cases, cessation of the drug did not restore hearing. Again, the relationship with the medication is uncertain. If you notice unexpected hearing loss, particularly if accompanied by ear ringing or dizziness, contact your healthcare provider without delay. Avoid taking tadalafil or similar medications until you have spoken with your doctor.
Tadalafil may present other side effects; report any unusual reactions to your healthcare provider.
Should you experience a serious side effect, you or your healthcare provider may report it to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or by phone.
Store this medication in its original packaging, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Maintain it at room temperature, away from excessive heat and humidity, and do not store it in the bathroom.
Unused medications should be disposed of safely to prevent ingestion by pets, children, and others. Avoid flushing such medications down the toilet. Instead, seek a medication take-back program in your community or consult your pharmacist on proper disposal methods.
It's crucial to keep all medications securely stored and out of sight of children, as many containers are not child-resistant and can be easily opened. Utilize safety caps where applicable, and store medications in a secure location.
If an overdose is suspected, contact the Poison Control Center immediately. For severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
Ensure you attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.
Do not share your medication with anyone else. Reach out to your pharmacist with any questions regarding your prescription refills.
Maintaining an up-to-date list of all medications being taken, including over-the-counter products and supplements, is imperative. This list should accompany you to every doctor’s appointment and be readily available in emergencies.
- Adcirca®
- Cialis®
- Entadfi® (as a combination product containing finasteride, tadalafil)