Cialis: Working, Dosage, and Side Effects

Cialis, with the active salt Tadalafil, is widely regarded as a game changer in the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED). Unlike other medications in its class, it is also referred to as the weekend pill due to its long-lasting effects, allowing users greater freedom and spontaneity in their sexual relationships. 

Cialis’ quick start and the possibility of daily low-dose usage have made it the favorite choice for millions of people worldwide. This article will explore every aspect of this magic pill, including its uses, workings, dosage, administration, side effects, and interactions.

What is Cialis, and how does it work?

Cialis was manufactured by Eli Lilly and approved for treating Erectile Dysfunction by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2003. Like Viagra, this tablet also belongs to a category of medications called Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. The medicine works by improving the natural process of obtaining an erection during sexual stimulation. 

On sexual arousal, Nitric Oxide (NO) is produced, triggering the synthesis of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP relaxes the penile smooth muscles and widens the blood vessels, enabling more blood to enter the penis, resulting in an erection.

But the PDE5 enzyme breakdown cGMP, thereby preventing erection. Cialis inhibits this PDE5 enzyme, extending the activity of cGMP and permitting a stronger and longer-lasting erection. 

Beyond ED, Cialis is also approved to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), an enlarged prostate, by widening the muscles in the prostate and bladder. It is also effective for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), High Blood Pressure inside the lungs, by relaxing blood arteries in the lungs to reduce blood pressure.

Cialis dosage and administration

There are various dosages of Cialis available, which are administered based on the condition being treated and the particular patient’s needs. 

ED dosage

For ED, there are two basic dosage approaches, as-needed dosing and once-daily dosing.

As-needed dosing

The recommended starting dose is 10 mg, administered orally at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. The dosage can be changed depending on individual preference and tolerance, with a maximum of 20 mg or a minimum of 5 mg. 

It has a significant benefit in terms of its longer duration of action, which may last up to 36 hours, providing a broader window of spontaneity. Patients should take no more than one dosage every day.

Once-daily dosing

For males who plan to have sexual activity twice or more per week, a reduced dosage taken once daily is offered. The typical starting dose for daily usage is 2.5 mg, given at the same time every day, regardless of the timing of intercourse. 

Depending on individual reaction and tolerance, this amount can be raised to 5 mg daily if necessary. Daily dosage maintains a stable amount of medicine in the bloodstream, allowing for spontaneity.

BPH and PAH dosing

The suggested dosage of the pill for reducing BPH symptoms is 5 mg taken orally once a day, at the same time every day. This daily dosage is also effective in treating co-existing ED.

For PAH, the medicine is prescribed under the brand name Adcirca, typically at a dose of 40 mg taken once daily. This dose should not be divided.

This pill can be taken with or without food. The pill shouldn’t be split or crushed; instead, it should be taken whole with a glass of water. 

As per an article published by the Core Evidence journal in 2005, daily dosing of 40 mg of Tadalafil is an effective treatment for people with PAH.

Side effects

While generally well-tolerated, Cialis can lead to some potential side effects, most of which are moderate and short-lived.

Commonly reported side effects include:

• Headache
• Indigestion or heartburn
• Back and muscle pain
• Flushing (a feeling of warmth in the face, neck, or chest)
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

These side effects often disappear after discontinuing the medicine. It can also cause the following severe side effects, requiring immediate medical attention, although rare:

• A prolonged, painful erection that lasts more than four hours (Priapism)
• Sudden decrease or loss of vision 
• Sudden decrease or loss of hearing
• Chest discomfort, signs of a heart attack, or stroke
• Severe allergic reaction (Anaphylaxis)

Contradictions and warnings

Cialis should not be taken by people with certain medical problems or in combination with specific medications because of the possibility of major side effects. It is contraindicated in the following conditions:

• If you are using nitrates, such as Nitroglycerin, for chest discomfort, Cialis should be avoided since the combination could cause a severe reduction in blood pressure.

• Do not take Cialis if you have unstable Angina (chest pain), a recent heart attack (within 90 days), or a recent stroke (6 months).

• People with serious liver damage or advanced kidney disease should not use Cialis without strict medical monitoring.

• If you are allergic to Tadalafil or any of its components, do not take Cialis.

• Also, Cialis is only meant for men and is not recommended for use by women or children.

• Do not combine Cialis with alcohol, as it can lead to a sudden decline in blood pressure, leading to dizziness.

• Never drive or operate any machinery after taking the pill, as it can lead to dizziness, thus increasing the likelihood of an accident.

Where to buy Cialis online?

Cialis is a prescription medicine in most countries; thus, purchasing it online legally and securely necessitates adherence to the local laws. You must have a valid prescription from a certified medical professional to get the medicine. 

Many websites offer over-the-counter Cialis without a prescription at cheaper rates. But they are likely operating illegally, providing counterfeit (fake) or unregulated products that may be ineffective, contaminated, or hazardous. 

Thus, it is advisable to purchase Cialis or any other ED pill from reputable and trusted online platforms like GoodRx Medicine, which offer genuine products at affordable rates and discreet shipping.

Cialis vs other ED pills

Cialis is one of several PDE5 inhibitors that can be used to treat Erectile Dysfunction. The choice often comes down to individual preferences regarding primary ingredient, usage, duration of action, onset, dosing, and potential side effects.  

Here’s a comparison between Cialis and other regularly prescribed ED medicines, including Viagra, Levitra, and Stendra.

Conclusion

Cialis stands out as a flexible and long-acting Erectile Dysfunction medication, with unique benefits like its remarkable 36-hour effectiveness and dosing flexibility. Its additional approvals for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension expand its medical possibilities. 

While the pill is beneficial, it should be noted that it is a prescription medicine with potential side effects and substantial interactions with other medications, particularly with nitrates. 

Hence, a doctor’s consultation is essential to evaluate whether the medication is the correct and safe solution. This ensures informed decision-making and the best health outcomes for people looking to enhance their quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Medlineplus.gov
• NHS.UK