Tadalafil: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings

Tadalafil is the active ingredient found in the well-known and widely prescribed medication Cialis®, primarily used to effectively treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It is also indicated for alleviating the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Tadalafil functions by relaxing the blood vessels, which enhances blood flow to specific areas of the body, particularly the penis, facilitating an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. The medication is unique in its long-lasting effects, as it can remain effective for a remarkable period of up to 36 hours. This characteristic provides patients with more spontaneity in their sexual activities. Tadalafil can be taken on an as-needed basis or through a lower-dose daily prescription, allowing for continuous treatment that fits individual lifestyles.

Common side effects associated with tadalafil usage include headaches, indigestion, back pain, and muscle aches; these symptoms typically resolve on their own within a few days of treatment initiation. It's critical for patients, especially those with existing cardiovascular conditions, to exercise caution when using Cialis. Additionally, the use of tadalafil along with nitrates or certain other medications is discouraged due to the possibility of serious interactions that can pose health risks.

Cialis (tadalafil) is indicated to treat:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED)

• The signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

• ED and the signs and symptoms of BPH (ED/BPH)

The drug category for tadalafil is phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor, a class known for its role in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Most common adverse reactions (≥2%) include:

• Headache

• Indigestion

• Back pain

• Muscle pain

• Nasal congestion

• Flushing

• Pain in limb

• Administration of Cialis to patients using any form of organic nitrate is contraindicated due to the risk of severe hypotension.

• Patients with a history of serious hypersensitivity reactions to either Cialis or Adcirca should avoid using tadalafil.

• Potential drug interactions include nitrates, alpha blockers, antihypertensives, alcohol consumption, and medications inhibiting or inducing CYP3A4 enzymes (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir, rifampin).

• Patients should not use Cialis if engaging in sexual activity is inadvisable due to their cardiovascular condition.

• Care should be taken when using Cialis in combination with alpha blockers, antihypertensive medications, or consuming significant amounts of alcohol (≥5 units) as this may lead to adverse effects like low blood pressure.

• The combination of Cialis and alpha blockers for the treatment of BPH is generally not recommended due to insufficient evidence regarding its efficacy and potential blood pressure-lowering effects.

• For those taking strong inhibitors of CYP3A4, dosage adjustments may be necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• Patients must seek emergency medical treatment if they experience an erection lasting longer than four hours, a condition known as priapism, which can lead to permanent damage.

• Immediate discontinuation of Cialis and consultation with a healthcare provider is essential if sudden loss of vision or hearing occurs, as this may indicate serious conditions such as non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).

• Prior to beginning treatment for BPH with Cialis, healthcare providers should evaluate other urological conditions that may present similar symptoms to avoid incorrect treatment.

Boxed Warning is not available for this drug.

The cost of tadalafil can vary significantly based on factors such as your insurance plan, the prescribed dosage, quantity, and purchasing location.

Without insurance coverage, the average retail price for the medication ranges between $1 and $25 per tablet. Patients might find coupons or discount cards that can help reduce the out-of-pocket expense. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover all or part of the medication's cost, leading to further savings.

Tadalafil through Hims’ online healthcare service starts at approximately $40 per month for erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment. Hims also provides access to chewable Hard Mints, which may contain tadalafil and/or sildenafil, with prices beginning at around $1.63 per use. These mints are prescribed medications that are compounded by licensed medical providers and produced in FDA-regulated pharmacies, although they have not yet received FDA approval.

In addition to tadalafil, there are various other medications available that can be prescribed to treat both erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Each medication has unique characteristics and may work better for different individuals. If you are considering options for an alternative to tadalafil, it’s advisable to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider to find out more about the available alternatives that may suit your needs.

Some other oral medications that treat ED include:

• Viagra® (sildenafil)

• Cialis® (tadalafil)

• Stendra® (avanafil)

• Vardenafil

• Chewable ED medications offered through Hims that may incorporate one or more of the active components found in both Cialis and Viagra

For patients considering penile injection medications for ED, options include:

• Caverject® or Edex® (alprostadil)

• Papaverine

• Phentolamine

• Combination treatments such as Bimix, Trimix, and Quadmix

Moreover, as an adjunct or alternative to pharmacological therapies for erectile dysfunction, healthcare providers might recommend addressing any underlying mental health concerns that could be contributing to ED, as well as lifestyle modifications that promote sexual health, including adhering to a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, and reducing alcohol consumption.

Additional interventions for ED could encompass the use of topical gels, vacuum erection devices, penile implant surgery, and testosterone therapy, particularly if low testosterone levels are a contributing factor.

BPH Management Options

For the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), other treatment modalities include:

• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors:

  • Avodart® (dutasteride)

  • Proscar® (finasteride)

• Alpha-blockers:

  • Uroxatral® (alfuzosin)

  • Cardura® (doxazosin)

  • Rapaflo® (silodosin)

  • Flomax® (tamsulosin)

  • Terazosin

• Combination therapies which target multiple pathways to alleviate symptoms

• Surgical options for more severe symptom relief

How quickly does tadalafil work?

Tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction typically begins to take effect within approximately 30 minutes up to two hours post-administration, contingent upon sexual stimulation.

What are the available dosages of tadalafil?

Tadalafil can be prescribed for daily use or as needed. For daily administration, it is generally prescribed at a lower dose (either 2.5 mg or 5 mg), taken once a day. When used on an as-needed basis for ED treatment, tadalafil is usually taken around two hours prior to planned sexual activity, typically prescribed at higher doses (5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg).

How long does tadalafil last?

Tadalafil remains effective for a duration of up to 36 hours, which is a notable advantage compared to other available ED medications that may have shorter durations of action.

Is tadalafil the same as Cialis®?

Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis. Studies indicate that both options are equally effective for treating erectile dysfunction and offer a similar duration of action along with comparable side effects. The primary distinction is that Cialis is a branded medication likely to be more costly than its generic counterpart, tadalafil.

To obtain a prescription for tadalafil, patients must first undergo an assessment by their primary care doctor or a specialist who can determine if this medication is suitable, considering their medical history and symptoms.

Hims provides an accessible platform for patients seeking daily or on-demand tadalafil if deemed eligible for treatment by a qualified healthcare provider. Hims connects patients with a medical professional who evaluates their health history and current symptoms. Upon approval, patients can expect their prescription to be delivered in discreet packaging, typically within a few days.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits associated with any treatment options. To learn more about our editorial standards, please click here.

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