Tadalafil (oral route)
It is important that you tell all of your doctors that you take tadalafil. If you find yourself in a situation requiring emergency medical assistance due to any heart issues, it becomes crucial that your healthcare provider is informed about the last instance when you administered tadalafil. This information could significantly affect your treatment and care.
When using this medication for pulmonary arterial hypertension, be certain that your healthcare professional monitors your health regularly. Regular check-ups are essential to assess the efficacy of the medication and to determine whether you should persist with this course of treatment. These evaluations might include necessary blood and urine tests to monitor for any adverse effects that could arise from the medication.
Those taking tadalafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension should avoid the use of Cialis® or any other PDE5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil (marketed as Revatio® or Viagra®) or vardenafil (known as Levitra®). It's essential to note that Cialis® also contains tadalafil. Mixing these medications can escalate the risk of side effects considerably if you consume excessive amounts of tadalafil or combine it with these other drugs.
If you experience a prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours or an erection that is painful and lasts longer than 6 hours, seek immediate medical attention. Such conditions may necessitate urgent medical intervention to avert serious and potentially irreversible damage to your penis.
This medication does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV or AIDS. It is vital to use appropriate protective measures and consult your healthcare provider if you have any uncertainties regarding this matter.
Ensure to inform your doctor about any current or historical heart conditions you may have. This medication may pose significant risks and trigger serious side effects for patients who have pre-existing heart conditions.
Refrain from using this medication if you are currently taking riociguat (Adempas®) or any nitrate medications, which are commonly prescribed for angina (chest pain). Examples of nitrate medications include nitroglycerin, isosorbide, Imdur®, Nitro-Bid®, Nitrostat®, Nitro-Dur®, Transderm Nitro®, Nitrol® Ointment, as well as Nitrolingual® Spray. Additionally, some illegal drugs known as “poppers” (such as amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, or nitrite) may also contain nitrates. If you need to use a nitrate medication, it is advised to wait at least 48 hours after your last dose of tadalafil before taking the nitrate.
Be cautious about consuming large quantities of alcohol (for example, 5 or more glasses of wine or 5 or more shots of whiskey) while taking tadalafil. Excessive alcohol intake can heighten the likelihood of experiencing headaches or dizziness, may raise your heart rate, or could lower your blood pressure significantly.
If you encounter a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, contact your healthcare provider without delay.
Additionally, seek urgent advice from your doctor if you notice a sudden reduction in your hearing ability or experience hearing loss, especially if this is accompanied by sensations of dizziness or ringing in the ears.
It is crucial to avoid taking other medications unless you have discussed them thoroughly with your healthcare professional. This includes both prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) drugs, as well as any herbal or vitamin supplements you may be considering.