Cialis works by enhancing the effects of one of the chemicals the body normally releases into the penis during sexual arousal.
This allows an increase of blood flow into the penis. An erection is the result of an increase in blood flow into certain internal areas of the penis.
- Cialis is a brand (trade) name for tadalafil which may be used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Cialis (tadalafil) works by blocking the action of an enzyme known as cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5). This enzyme breaks down cGMP, a substance that induces smooth muscles to relax. Blocking PDE-5 means increased levels of cGMP within the smooth muscles which promotes muscle relaxation and vasodilation (a widening of blood vessels).
- High levels of PDE-5 are found in the penis, lungs, and retina. PDE-5 is also found throughout the body within the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels and muscles.
- Cialis (tadalafil) belongs to the class of medicines known as PDE-5 inhibitors.
