Cialis: Uses, Workings, Side Effects, and Interactions

Comprised of FDA-approved tadalafil for ED treatment, hypertension is also a common side effect offering to benefit those with problems related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In very simple terms, the work of the drug is to increase blood flow to select regions through the mechanism of inhibition of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzyme. Studies and experiments over the past years have attributed efficacy to the drug in enhancing sexual function and managing urinary symptoms of BPH.

What Is Cialis Used For?

Cialis is medically indicated for three medical disorders:

1. Erectile Dysfunction (ED): As an objective of treatment, it has to increase the amount of blood flowing into that organ so that an erection can be obtained and maintained during sexual activity. Contrary to other erectile dysfunction medications, which usually act after a few hours, Cialis works for a much longer time and allows for spontaneous sexual activity for 24-36 hours.

2. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): This is another disease affecting old men in which the prostate gland becomes so enlarged as to obstruct urethral flow; it also somehow relaxes the smooth muscles of the bladder and prostate to ease the flow in men.
3. Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): In some instances, the drug is effective on PAH, which is rather a rare disorder affecting blood flow to the lungs. It relaxes blood vessel walls, thereby reducing pressure within the arteries and improving one’s capacity to do exercise.

How exactly does Cialis work?

The medication inhibits the activity of only one enzyme, phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which destroys cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), an intracellular mediator that causes relaxation of vascular smooth muscle and increased perfusion to such tissues.

In a sexually excited male, the immediate action of nitric oxide released in the penis tissue would be to increase cGMP. Increased cGMP levels lead to relaxation of blood vessels and, subsequently, an increase in the flood of blood into the penis that causes erection. Hence, by inhibiting PDE5, Cialis keeps cGMP levels so high that one can readily attain and maintain erection with it.

It is indicated in BPH as it acts by relaxing smooth muscle cells from the prostate and bladder, hence it relieves fasting urinary symptoms: increased frequency and poor urine stream.

FDA Approval and Clinical Studies

In the year 2003, the United States FDA approved Cialis for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. At that time, Cialis had proven effective and safe through innumerable research and studies.

A clinical trial published in a prestigious journal, namely Journal of Sexual Medicine, shows that Cialis improved the erection function in 81% of men suffering from ED in contrast with 35% in the placebo arm.

Research shows that continuous administration of tadalafil causes a great reduction of lower urinary tract symptoms in men with hypertension without BPH. Furthermore, there was a consideration of the chance of using Cialis as a treatment of sex dysfunction among females; more studies should be done before any FDA approval.

Dosage Instructions of Cialis

Cialis is also available in these oral administration doses: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg. Medication decision of the dosage is subject to the condition treated:

1. For Treatment of ED (As Needed Use): 10 mg just before sexual activity (may be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg based on effectiveness).
2. For Treatment of ED (Daily Use): 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily at the same time each day.
3. 5 mg for BPH or BPH with ED: once daily.
4. For PAH: Varied dosage based on determination by healthcare provider.

It can be taken with or without food, though it is cautioned that it should not be used more than once a day.

Cialis Side Effects

However, Cialis is usually well-tolerated; still, few users complain about side effects. These side effects may range from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects:

• Headaches
• Flushing
• Indigestion
• Nasal congestion
• Muscle or back pain

Serious side effects needing urgent medical intervention:

• Priapism: A painful erection lasting over four hours may cause permanent damage to the penis.
• Sudden Loss of Vision: Rare cases have been reported of onset NAION events.
• Cases of Hearing Loss have been Reported: In some men, sudden hearing loss or tinnitus may occur.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat requires immediate medical attention.

Interaction with Other Substances

Cialis interacts with various medications and substances, eventually affecting its efficacy and safety of use.

➺ Alcohol and Cialis

Heavy use of alcohol when combined with Cialis may increase the chances of dizzy spells, hypotension, and fainting.

A moderate range of such intake (i.e., one or two drinks) could generally be safe.

➺ Nitrate Medications

Cialis has to be avoided in conjunction with nitrates (such as nitroglycerin), as it would create a highly decreased blood pressure.

Those under treatment for the heart should consult their physician before taking it.

➺ Alpha-Blockers

The escaping medication that may cause fewer complaints is combined with other drugs such as Tamsulosin, which is an alpha-blocker, prescribed for hypertensive patients, and patients with BPH.

Those with serious cases may experience dizziness, fainting, or even shock.

➺ Other ED Drugs

It is not safe to combine Cialis with other drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction, which include other PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra or Levitra, as the side effects will increase without extra gain.

➺ The antibiotics and antifungal medications

Some antibiotics, such as erythromycin, and antifungal medicines, such as ketoconazole, boost levels of Cialis in blood, which consequently increases the risk of side effects.

Conclusion

Cialis, one of the most commonly used medications for ED and BPH, is the therapy of record and FDA-approved, with extensive research supporting its effectiveness. Its use is generally safe, but awareness of certain possible side effects and combinations of alcohol and other drugs is essential. Consulting one’s physician is always the recommended step before initiation of Cialis treatment, especially for those with internal health problems.

Sex can be complicated and more confusing when one does not understand how Cialis works, its effects, and proper use. After reading about Cialis, patients will be educated to make informed choices on sexual health and general well-being.

FAQs

1. Can Cialis be taken daily?

Cialis can be taken in lower doses (2.5 or 5 mg) daily. This option appears best for men who are sexually active more often than not.

2. How long does Cialis last?

It lasts longer than any of the other ED treatment medications, working effectively for as much as 36 hours in some people.

3. Does using Cialis result in permanent treatment for ED?

No, while it is a method of managing sexual dysfunction, it is not a treatment for it. The effects last for a short period.

4. Is it safe to drink alcohol with Cialis?

Fully moderate alcohol consumption would be generally safe. However, drinking excessively increases the risk for potential side effects like dizziness and hypotension.

5. Does Cialis work for everybody?

It generally works for most men, though responses differ between individuals. It may take some additional titration or even an alternative treatment for some men.