Tadalafil

What is Tadalafil?

Tadalafil is a medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It’s known by its brand name Cialis, among others. Tadalafil belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors). It helps men achieve and maintain an erection by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Tadalafil is also used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and, in some cases, pulmonary arterial hypertension.

What is Tadalafil Used For?

Tadalafil is used for several conditions, including:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): This is the most common use of Tadalafil. It helps men with ED get and maintain an erection when sexually aroused.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Tadalafil helps relieve symptoms of BPH, such as difficulty urinating, weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently.
• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): In some cases, Tadalafil is prescribed to treat PAH, a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart.

How it Works

Tadalafil works by relaxing the muscles and blood vessels in specific areas of the body. For erectile dysfunction, Tadalafil increases blood flow to the penis, making it easier to get and maintain an erection. When sexually aroused, nitric oxide is released in the penis, activating an enzyme called guanylate cyclase. This enzyme increases levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which relaxes the blood vessels and allows more blood to flow into the penis. PDE5 inhibitors like Tadalafil block the degradation of cGMP, thus enhancing and prolonging the erection.

Dosage

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Tadalafil and are on a daily dosing schedule, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Overdose

In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include severe dizziness, fainting, or a painful or prolonged erection (priapism).

Tadalafil Side Effects

Like any medication, Tadalafil can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Indigestion
• Back pain
• Muscle aches
• Flushing (redness or warmth in the face, neck, or chest)
• Stuffy or runny nose

Most of these side effects are mild and tend to go away on their own. However, if you experience severe side effects like sudden vision loss, hearing loss, or an erection lasting more than four hours, seek medical attention immediately.