Cialis is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient tadalafil. This medication is part of a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Cialis is administered orally as a tablet and should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Before beginning treatment with this medication, patients should discuss the indications for Cialis with a doctor.
Erectile Dysfunction
Cialis is indicated to treat men who have erectile dysfunction, a condition characterized by difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection during sexual stimulation. Approximately 15 to 30 million men in the United States struggle with erectile dysfunction, according to 2005 information from the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. This medication works by increasing blood flow to the penis, which can help men attain an erection. Cialis does not cure erectile dysfunction, as this condition is typically a symptom of an underlying medical problem, such as diabetes or nerve damage.
Contraindications
Men who are hypersensitive to tadalafil or currently taking an alternate medication that contains nitrate should not receive treatment with Cialis, RxList warns. This medication is not recommended for patients with certain preexisting cardiovascular conditions, such as a recent heart attack, heart failure or stroke, or uncontrolled blood pressure or heart rate abnormalities. Use of this medication can increase a patient's risk of experiencing a heart attack or sudden death during sexual activity.
Side Effects
Side effects can arise in men treated with Cialis. In clinical trials for this medication, approximately 10 to 15 percent of men reported headache side effects after taking 5, 10 or 20 mg of Cialis, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additional side effects can include upset stomach, cold symptoms, facial warmth or redness, muscle aches or memory difficulties. Men who experience severe side effects, such as chest pain, heart rate irregularities, lightheadedness, seizures, prolonged erection, limb swelling or vision or hearing changes should seek medical care immediately.
