How does Cialis work?
Cialis works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. It inhibits the action of the PDE5 enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP helps relax the smooth muscles in the walls of blood vessels.
This allows more blood to flow into the penis, resulting in an erection. Cialis does not cause an erection on its own and requires sexual stimulation to work.
What is Cialis used for?
Cialis is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence. It can also be prescribed to treat the symptoms of BPH. These include difficulty urinating or a frequent need to urinate.
Cialis is sometimes used off-label to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). It's a condition where there is high blood pressure in the arteries that supply blood to the lungs. It is important to note that Cialis should not be used for recreational purposes.
What are the precautions and warnings of Cialis?
Before taking Cialis, it is important to inform your doctor if you have any heart problems. especially angina (chest pain), heart rhythm problems, or a recent heart attack. If you have a history of prolonged erections or sickle cell anemia, talk to your doctor prior to use.
Cialis can also interact with certain medications. Particularly nitrates used to treat chest pain or alpha blockers prescribed for high blood pressure. Therefore, make sure to provide a complete list of all the medications you are currently taking to your doctor.
What is the dosage of Cialis?
The recommended starting dose for Cialis is 10mg. However, your doctor may adjust it based on your individual needs and response to the medication. The maximum recommended dose is 20mg per day, taken as needed before sexual activity.
For the treatment of BPH, a daily dose of 5mg is typically prescribed. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and not take more than one dose per day.
What are the side effects of Cialis?
Some common side effects of Cialis include headache, indigestion, muscle aches, back pain, and flushing. These usually subside within a few hours or days. However, if these symptoms persist or become bothersome, it is important to call your doctor.
In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as sudden vision loss or hearing loss. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Cialis, seek medical attention immediately.
Side effect can include:
- redness, pain, swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid
- runny or stuffy nose
- fever
- sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
- feeling of warmth, redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest
- tenderness in the stomach area
- Belching
- loose stools
- difficulty with moving
- watering of the eyes
- burning, dry, or itching eyes
- trouble with sleeping
- hoarseness
- stomach discomfort, upset, or pain
- dryness or soreness of the throat
- burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings
- swelling or puffiness of the eyes or face
- dry mouth
- tearing
- Bloody nose
- tender, swollen glands in the neck
- upper stomach pain
- sensation of spinning
- lack or loss of strength
- heartburn
- body aches or pain
- difficulty with swallowing
- swollen joints
- swelling of the eyelids
- stomach upset
- ringing in the ears
How long does Cialis last?
Cialis can last up to 36 hours. The effects may vary from person to person and depend on various factors. These include age, health conditions, and medication interactions. It can vary between 24 to 48 hours when considering these variables.
Can I take Cialis every day?
Yes, if you are prescribed a daily dose of Cialis for the treatment of BPH or ED, you can take it every day. However, make sure to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended dose.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Cialis?
If you forget to take a dose of Cialis, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Can I take Cialis with food or alcohol?
Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol may increase the risk of side effects and decrease the effectiveness of the medication. It is recommended to limit your alcohol intake while taking Cialis. Cialis can be taken with or without food. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Cialis and should be avoided.
What do I do in case of an allergic reaction to Cialis?
Stop taking Cialis immediately and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction. This can involve rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Let your doctor know about any known allergies before starting treatment with Cialis.
What is the best way to store Cialis?
Cialis should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not use Cialis after the expiration date on the label. If you have any unused or expired medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist for proper disposal methods.