Cialis is a prescription drug containing the medication tadalafil. It is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, which is a family of drugs that cause the smooth muscle of the penile blood vessels to relax and fill with blood. This allows an erection to occur during sexual arousal.
Indications
The "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide" explains that Cialis is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction during sexual arousal. It is also indicated as a daily preparation for men with erectile dysfunction who wish to have an erection three or more times a week.
Dosage
Tadalafil is available in tablet form. The as-needed preparation is taken prior to anticipated sexual intercourse. Typical dosage is 10 mg, but can range from 5 mg to 20 mg depending on individual patient response. It should only be used once in a 24-hour period. The once-daily preparation allows a man to be prepared for sexual intercourse at any time. Normal dosage is 2.5 mg each day; some patients will need to take 5 mg a day.
Contraindications
Tadalafil is contraindicated in patients who take any type of nitrates. It must also be avoided by anyone who has had an allergic or hypersensitive reaction to any component of the drug. This medicine should not be used by women or children. Patients taking alpha blockers are often prohibited from taking Cialis. Some patients with heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, liver disease, retinal disorder, low blood pressure, kidney disease or a deformed penis will be unable to use this drug. Men who have a stroke should not take Cialis for at least six months.
Side Effects
Common side effects of tadalafil include indigestion, backache, headache, stuffy nose and flushing. Less common but more serious reactions include heart attack, hearing loss, sudden vision loss, lowered blood pressure, dizziness and fainting. A drug-assisted erection lasting more than four hours is also considered an emergency, as permanent damage to the penis can result.
Considerations
Cialis should not be taken with herbs for erectile dysfunction without your doctor's approval. Drugs.com explains that grapefruit juice may interact with this medicine; if you regularly drink grapefruit juice, discuss this with your physician. The doctor who prescribed you Cialis must know of any other prescription medications you take as some of them have problematic interactions. Do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol while taking Cialis. Even while taking Cialis, you will only have an erection if you feel sexually aroused.
References
- "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide;" Amy M. Karch, R.N., M.S.; 2010
- Eli Lilly and Company: Cialis: Prescribing Information
- Drugs.com: Cialis Consumer Information
