Cialis® (tadalafil) works by improving blood flow to the penis by relaxing the blood vessels.
As a result, it is often used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and symptoms of an enlarged prostate. The drug is available as a tablet in 4 different doses. Known as “the weekend pill,” Cialis stays in your system longer than its competitors.
Tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, belongs to a group of medications known as phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors. By relaxing the blood vessels connected to the penis, it allows more blood to flow into the penis and helps sustain an erection. It also relaxes the muscles in the bladder to aid urination.
Compared to other ED drugs, Cialis has a long duration and can last up to 36 hours. Cialis is only available with a doctor’s prescription. Do not use this drug if you are on medications containing nitrates, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Storage
Store Cialis below 25°C / 77°F in the original package in order to protect the pills from moisture. Dispose of unused tablets with care – don’t flush down the toilet or sink.
Please read our tips on handling medicine safely.
The most common side effects of tadalafil are
- facial flushing
- headaches
- stomach upset / diarrhea / nausea
- flu-like symptoms
Tadalafil also may cause
- low blood pressure
- blurred vision and changes in color vision
- abnormal ejaculation
Tadalafil has been associated with prolonged erections or priapism (painful erections lasting more than 6 hours). Patients should seek immediate medical help if they experience an erection lasting more than 4 hours.
Use of tadalafil, most often in patients with pre-existing heart disease, has been associated with chest pain, heart attacks, death, strokes, palpitations, and increased heart rate.
Cialis requires a prescription. Please follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this and any medication.
Cialis works quicker than most ED drugs and is used as needed a few hours before sexual intercourse, typically working within 20 minutes as it is readily absorbed into the body.
Let your doctor know if you are taking any of the following medications:
- erythromycin
- ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- itraconazole (Sporanox)
- indinavir (Crixivan)
- ritonavir (Norvir)
If the following drugs are used at the same time as tadalafil, the dose of tadalafil should be reduced in order to avoid side effects
- Rifampin
- carbamazepine (Tegretol, Tegretol XR, Equerto, Carbatrol)
- phenytoin (Dilantin, Dilantin-125)
Cialis may also interact with certain over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, and vitamins.