Everything About Taking Lisinopril and Cialis Together

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Lisinopril and Cialis (containing the active ingredient Tadalafil) are prescription medicines commonly used for different health conditions. Lisinopril is an Angiotensin-converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that treats High Blood Pressure and Heart Failure. On the other hand, Cialis is a Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, which is mainly prescribed to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

As long-term High Blood Pressure can damage blood vessels and reduce penile blood flow, increasing the risk of ED, both these medicines are often prescribed together. Since both Lisinopril and Cialis can affect blood pressure, many people wonder whether they are safe to use together.

In most cases, the combination is considered safe when prescribed by a healthcare professional. However, it can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect, particularly in certain individuals. This article explains the possibility of Lisinopril-Cialis interaction, possible side effects, factors that increase the risk of complications, and when to seek medical attention.

Can you take Lisinopril and Cialis together?

Yes, Lisinopril and Cialis (Tadalafil) can generally be taken together if prescribed by a healthcare professional. However, because both medicines lower blood pressure through different mechanisms, taking them together can produce an additive blood pressure-lowering effect.

Lisinopril lowers blood pressure by blocking the production of the hormone Angiotensin II, which narrows blood vessels. This allows blood vessels to relax and reduces blood pressure. Cialis works differently by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, increasing the effects of Nitric Oxide (NO). This helps relax the smooth muscles of blood vessels and boosts blood flow, particularly to the penis during sexual stimulation. It can also cause a modest reduction in blood pressure throughout the body as a side effect.

For most healthy individuals, this additional blood pressure reduction is mild. So, combining Lisinopril and Cialis is not contraindicated. However, before using them together, always inform your doctor for safety.

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Possible side effects of taking Lisinopril with Cialis

Most people tolerate this combination well. However, the additional reduction in blood pressure can increase the likelihood of certain side effects, including:

  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Headache
  • Fatigue

Rare but serious side effects of this combination include severe low blood pressure, fainting, and allergic reactions, like swelling of the throat or face. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these occur.

Did you know?
Cialis can remain active in the body for up to 36 hours. This is why its blood pressure-lowering effects can last much longer than those of shorter-acting Erectile Dysfunction medicines.

What increases the risk of side effects?

Although the interaction is usually mild, some factors can increase the possibility of developing low blood pressure or other complications.

  • Higher Cialis doses: Larger doses can produce a greater blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the likelihood of dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Alcohol consumption: Alcohol also temporarily lowers blood pressure by widening blood vessels and can increase the risk of dizziness, fainting, and falls. The risk is even higher with heavy alcohol intake.
  • Using multiple blood pressure medicines: Taking Cialis with more than one blood pressure medicine can further increase the risk of low blood pressure.
  • Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating can make blood pressure drop more easily.
  • Older age or kidney disease: Men over 60 or those with kidney disease may be more sensitive to changes in blood pressure, increasing the likelihood of side effects.
  • Standing up suddenly: Rapid changes in posture can trigger dizziness or lightheadedness, especially if blood pressure has fallen.
Warning
Never take Cialis or other ED medicines with nitrate medicines such as Nitroglycerin or Isosorbide. This combination can cause a sudden, potentially life-threatening drop in blood pressure.

Safety precautions while taking Lisinopril and Cialis

The following precautions can help reduce the chances of side effects when taking Lisinopril and Cialis together:

  • Do not adjust the dose of either medicine without consulting your doctor.
  • Limit alcohol consumption to prevent symptoms like dizziness or fainting.
  • Tell your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements before using the medicines to avoid interactions.
  • Monitor your blood pressure regularly to notice any changes, especially when starting these medicines or changing the dose.
  • Rise slowly if sitting or lying down to reduce the risk of dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Stay well-hydrated to prevent drops in blood pressure that can occur with dehydration.

Conclusion

Lisinopril and Cialis can generally be taken together under medical supervision. Although both medicines lower blood pressure through different mechanisms, the interaction is usually mild and does not prevent their combined use in most people.

However, some individuals have a greater risk of developing symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness. It includes older adults, those taking multiple blood pressure medicines, people with kidney disease, and those who consume excessive alcohol.

Using the prescribed dose, staying hydrated, limiting alcohol, and informing your healthcare provider about all medicines you take can help reduce the risk of complications. If you develop severe low blood pressure or fainting, seek immediate medical attention to ensure safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I avoid while taking Cialis?

You should avoid nitrate medicines, recreational nitrites called poppers, and excessive alcohol while taking Cialis. You should also tell your doctor about all blood pressure medicines and supplements you use to reduce the risk of medicine interactions and low blood pressure.

How long should I wait between taking Lisinopril and Cialis?

There is no recommended waiting period for taking Lisinopril and Cialis when both have been prescribed together. Their interaction and effects on blood pressure are also mild, so they can be used together. However, always follow your doctor’s instructions for safe use.

Are there alternatives to Cialis for men taking blood pressure medication?

Yes, alternatives to Cialis are available for men taking blood pressure medicines. They include penile injections, intraurethral pellets, vacuum pumps, or, in selected cases, penile implants. However, other PDE5 inhibitors, like Sildenafil, also have similar interactions to Cialis. So, if low blood pressure is your concern, they are not a suitable alternative.

Can I take Tadalafil daily if I use Lisinopril?

Yes, you can take Tadalafil daily with Lisinopril if prescribed. Daily Tadalafil medicines like Vidalista 5 often have lower doses, so they generally produce minimal reductions in blood pressure. However, you should follow your doctor’s advice and report symptoms such as persistent dizziness to ensure safety.

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