Tadalafil is a prescription medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction by enhancing blood flow to the penile tissues. It helps men achieve and sustain an erection, provided that sexual stimulation is present.
This medication is also frequently prescribed to manage the physical symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, commonly known as an enlarged prostate. It offers a versatile treatment approach for men dealing with both reproductive and urinary health concerns.
Patients can find this drug in several strengths, most commonly in 5 mg and 20 mg tablets. In the United States, it is available as the brand-name drug Cialis or as a more affordable generic version.
What it is used for
Tadalafil is FDA-approved for the treatment of two specific conditions:
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Erectile dysfunction;
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Symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The use of tadalafil requires a formal recommendation from a urologist. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and check for any potential side effects.
Is a prescription required for tadalafil?
In the United States, tadalafil is a prescription-only medication and is available at pharmacies and drugstores. While it is not classified as a controlled substance, you cannot purchase it over the counter without a valid order from a licensed healthcare provider.
How the medication works
When a man experiences sexual stimulation, the body naturally increases blood flow to the penis to facilitate an erection. Tadalafil enhances this biological response, making it easier for men with erectile dysfunction to reach and maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity.
Once sexual activity concludes, blood flow to the area decreases and the erection subsides. It is important to note that tadalafil does not cause an automatic erection; it only works when sexual stimulation occurs.
Does tadalafil increase penis size?
Tadalafil does not physically increase the size of the penis. However, because it maximizes blood flow to the area and results in a firmer erection, it may create the visual impression that the penis has grown in size.
How to take tadalafil
Patients should take tadalafil tablets by mouth with a small amount of water. The medication can be taken with or without food.
1. Tadalafil 5 mg
The 5 mg tablet is intended for daily use. The standard dosage for treating erectile dysfunction or prostate symptoms is one tablet per day, taken at the same time every day.
The duration of your treatment plan will be determined by your urologist. This specific dosage is generally not recommended for individuals suffering from severe kidney impairment.
2. Tadalafil 20 mg
The 20 mg dosage is specifically indicated for the as-needed treatment of erectile dysfunction.
The typical recommendation is to take one 20 mg tablet shortly before you plan to engage in sexual activity.
This medication becomes effective approximately 30 minutes after ingestion and can remain active in the body for up to 36 hours.
Possible side effects
Common side effects that may occur during treatment include headaches, back pain, and dizziness. Some patients also report indigestion, facial flushing, muscle aches, or nasal congestion.
Can tadalafil cause a heart attack?
Although rare, tadalafil is associated with serious cardiovascular risks, including myocardial infarction, rapid heart rate, chest pain, and palpitations. In very rare instances, sudden cardiac death has been reported.
These serious side effects typically occur in men with preexisting cardiovascular disease or high-risk factors. This includes individuals who have had a heart attack within the last 90 days, those with unstable angina, or those who have suffered a stroke within the last six months.
Because of these risks, a urologist must perform a complete health evaluation and review your medical history before prescribing this medication.
Who should not use this medication
Tadalafil is not intended for use by children or women. It should also be avoided by men who do not have erectile dysfunction or symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
Furthermore, it is unsafe for anyone with a known allergy to the ingredients in the tablet. It is strictly contraindicated for patients using medications that contain nitric oxide or organic nitrates, such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide. Combining these drugs can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Individuals with severe liver or kidney disease, as well as those with certain preexisting heart conditions, should also avoid using tadalafil.
Differences between sildenafil and tadalafil
Tadalafil and sildenafil, known by the brand name Viagra, belong to the same class of drugs and work by inhibiting the same enzyme. While both are highly effective, the primary difference between them is how long they stay active in your system.
Sildenafil generally remains effective for about six hours. In contrast, tadalafil stays active for up to 36 hours, which provides a longer window of effectiveness but may also mean that side effects persist longer.