Tadalafil (Cialis) is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED, impotence; inability to get or keep an erection), and the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH; an enlarged prostate) which include difficulty urinating (hesitation, dribbling, weak stream, and incomplete bladder emptying), painful urination, and urinary frequency and urgency in adult men.
Tadalafil (Adcirca) is used to improve the ability to exercise in people with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH; high blood pressure in the vessels carrying blood to the lungs, causing shortness of breath, dizziness, and tiredness). Tadalafil is in a class of medications called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors.
It works to treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This increased blood flow can cause an erection. Tadalafil treats PAH by relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs to allow blood to flow more easily.
If you are taking tadalafil to treat erectile dysfunction, you should know that it does not cure erectile dysfunction or increase sexual desire. Tadalafil does not prevent pregnancy or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Cialis fast facts
-
-
- Tadalafil (Cialis) is available in generic and brand versions in several doses as an oral tablet.
- You can take Cialis as needed or once a day, depending on the dose and how it’s prescribed.
- Cialis takes from 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect. It can last up to 36 hours.
- Cialis is a PDE5 inhibitor medication approved for use for erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
- Don’t take Cialis with nitrate class medications. Doing so can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- If an erection lasts more than 4 hours, seek immediate medical attention.
-
Is Cialis right for me?
Because sexual activity can increase the work of the heart, your doctors should talk to you about your heart’s general condition and if Cialis is right for you. Patients who have a condition called “left ventricular outlet obstruction” from valvular problems or heart muscle enlargement may get side effects such as fainting or light-headedness.
Because patients with recent heart attacks or stroke, heart pains (angina), heart failure, uncontrolled blood pressure or uncontrolled irregular heart beats, severe liver disease, and retinal eye problems were not studied with Cialis, Cialis is not recommended for these patients.
There may be rare occurrences of priapism or painful, prolonged erections. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Patients should seek prompt medical attention if their erection lasts longer than four hours.