Tadalafil and Its uses, Precautions

Tadalafil and Its uses, Precautions
Manoj Kumar Published : Oct 11, 2023 Last Updated : Jan 26, 2024

What is Tadalafil?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common health issues found in men, with 52 percent of the worldwide male population experiencing some sort of dysfunction. Tadalafil comes to the rescue. In lay terms, this is one of the most popular medicines that cure ED. Know all the details about this medicine and be sure of what you're consuming.

Commonly, Tadalafil is called Cialis, named after the production brand. Note that the component ratio is different for manufacturers and requires expert guidance. Tadalafil's primary responsibility is to prevent PDE5 enzyme in blood flow, which is the reason behind erectile dysfunction. The following section will explain a detailed working process for Tadalafil.

How Tadalafil Works?

Tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, was discovered in early 1990. While the medicine was supposed to treat angina (a type of chest pain), it showed significant treatment results for erectile dysfunction. Since then, Cialis has been considered majorly treating erectile dysfunction. Whereas in late 1990, the rate of ED was only 1.5% to 2.5%, now it's rapidly increasing. Consequently, Tadalafil is more familiar now. In 2003, the FDA approved this medicine as well.

Coming to the core working process, Tadalafil belongs to a particular compound group named PDE5 inhibitor. PDE5 or phosphodiesterase type 5 causes irregular blood flow. During sexual activities, nitric oxide is released from the penis, which sends a signal to the brain to release cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate). cGMP molecule is responsible for increasing blood flow and smooth muscles during erection. PDE5 breaks down the formation of cGMP too quickly to maintain improved blood flow. Hence, irregular erection becomes a drill.

Tadalafil blocks PDE5 enzymes and increases cGMP concentration, which leads to desired blood flow. Additionally, this medicine helps in attaining a hard erection by filling up the cavernous tissue of external genitals, which includes the penis, testes, and scrotum with blood.

Medical Benefits of Tadalafil

Here are the five significant medical reasons to use Cialis (Tadalafil).

Firstly, Tadalafil is not only effective to treat erectile dysfunction but BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) and PAH (Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension). As this drug can relax muscles by increasing blood flow, symptoms of an enlarged prostate can be reduced as well. At the same time, pulmonary arterial hypertension can be treated with Tadalafil. It would increase blood flow in blood vessels and lower the blood pressure to an average extent.

Spontaneity in sexual activities is highly attainable with the help of Tadalafil. A minimal dosage of this medicine does wonders in less time. As a result, a satisfied sexual life would be maintained. Consequently, it would help in regaining self-esteem that one might lose during erectile dysfunction.

The next benefit is the flexibility. While numerous medications become vulnerable to missed dosage, Tadalafil guarantees flexibility. When one consumes 2.5mg or 5mg of Tadalafil tablets regularly, it maintains cGMP concentration at a level where a pause won't affect the system. Expected results from the intake would continue further for a few days.

The fourth advantage is the duration. This PDE5 inhibitor can even last up to 36 hours for some people. With this, the erection becomes longer, and the orgasm is reportedly even better. And it takes minimal time to initiate the reaction in the body. So, sexual desire doesn't need to be compromised due to erectile dysfunction. Also, there should not be any mandatory planning to have sex as regular consumption of Cialis makes the medicine stay in one's health system.

Additionally, Tadalafil has fewer side effects than other similar medicines. As a result, potential health risks are minimized.

As a bonus effect, recent studies (2013) are showing potential results of improved cardiovascular impact for people who intake PDE5 inhibitors such as Tadalafil regularly.

How to take Tadalafil?

There are four different dosages available for Tadalafil- 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg for erectile dysfunction. According to your existing health condition, doctors would prescribe a suitable dose for you. However, one 10 mg tablet a day is the standard Tadalafil dosage. Also, the effect can stay up to 24 or 36 hours for some people. In such cases, daily consumption should be avoided.

On the other hand, Cialis dosage for PAH is 20 mg only, 2.5 mg for BPH, and 5 mg for BPH.

You may consume the tablet with water or juice except grapefruit juice. For erectile dysfunction, the pill should be taken 30 minutes before any sexual activity. For BPH and PAH, the frequency might differ. So it's best to get expert suggestions.

Drug Interaction to Note:

Different compositions in distinct medicines sometimes make them vulnerable to consumption. An individual might have existing medical conditions, and another medication can severely affect the system. For Tadalafil, it's even more relevant as erectile dysfunction is majorly observed in aged men, and with growing age, different health concerns inevitably appear. That's the reason for knowing drug interaction with Tadalafil beforehand.

  • Medicines containing Nitrates are mainly used to treat chest pain. One of the main reasons for chest pain is higher blood pressure, which eventually is maintained by Nitrate. On top of it, Tadalafil (if consumed) would lower the blood pressure even more and cause severe problems. The same goes for sGC simulators.
  • Alpha-blockers are responsible for widening blood vessels, therefore reducing excess blood pressure. Additional consumption of Tadalafil would lower the blood pressure to the extent of risk.
  • Other PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra and Levitra may cause dizziness, headache, and flushing if they are taken along with Cialis.
  • Protease inhibitors, anti-infective medications, and blood pressure medications may interact with Tadalafil as well.

Precautions to Follow

As you're aware of the drug interaction from the last section (which is a mandatory precaution to keep in mind), there are also some other essential precautions to notice.

  • Proper Dosage: Tadalafil tablet is available in different dosages, and more than required should never be consumed.
  • Restricted Frequency: There are two things. One more than one tablet can cause severe health issues. Two, as the effect can sometimes last for more than 24 hours, daily consumption isn't mandatory.
  • Avoid Alcohol: Similar to any other medication, Tadalafil shouldn't be consumed when you intake Tadalafil. The combined effect of the medicine and alcohol would cause low blood pressure.
  • Grapefruit: Grapefruit juice contains CYP3A4 inhibitors that can decrease Tadalafil's metabolism. So try to avoid this juice when you're consuming the medicine.
  • Doctor's advice: When you're experiencing some sort of erectile dysfunction, a doctor's appointment is the primary thing to do. Also, follow the restrictions advised by the doctor.
  • Minimum age: Anyone more than 18 years old who faces erectile dysfunction can take Tadalafil.

Conclusion:

Tadalafil is one of the known medicines for erectile dysfunction. Over the years, it proved its efficiency and relevance. With a maintained routine, Tadalafil consumption would cure erectile dysfunction in men. Check with your doctor before trying the medication, and be regular about it. It will surely bring back sexual satisfaction without harming the body. Note that Tadalafil would cure ED and get back the ability to perform sexually. It would not boost body stamina for someone with no health issues but fantasy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

A widespread concern arises regarding any medicine consumption for the first time. And when it comes to treating something vulnerable and most personal, every doubt is relevant. Here are some of the most common questions about Cialis.

What are Tadalafil's side effects?

Tadalafil's common side effects are indigestion, stomach discomfort, and heartburn. In addition, rare side effects include a bloody nose, difficulty with moving or swallowing, dry mouth, excessive eye discharge or severe eye pain, and even a change in color vision. A very few people have also experienced trouble with sleeping, loose stools, fever, and congestion.

What should I do if I miss a Tadalafil dose?

If you miss a dose or two while treating erectile dysfunction, that's not a significant problem. However, as a patient with benign prostate enlargement, the medicine should be consumed as soon as the reminder comes. For pulmonary hypertension, the patient must take the medication within 8 hours; if missed, skip to the next dosage with the standard routine.

Can Tadalafil cure ED completely?

Tadalafil helps to meet sexual desires and improves ejaculatory function. However, this medicine cannot cure erectile dysfunction to the maximum extent.

Where can I get Tadalafil?

Tadalafil is available in all medical stores and medical vendors online. It is mainly sold as a prescription medicine; we only have this one.

Is Tadalafil legal?

Yes, consuming Tadalafil tables is entirely legal. This medicine was also approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in 2003.

Can women take Tadalafil?

Women can take Tadalafil to cure pulmonary arterial hypertension, just as men. However, Tadalafil is not the best fit for women regarding sexual arousal and orgasm. It may work to some extent.

Is Tadalafil more potent than Viagra?

While Viagra is more affordable, Tadalafil has a more prolonged effect on the body and can be better for men with active sex life. Eventually, both are PDE5 inhibitors and can only work potentially under other dependent health issues.