TADALAFIL

Background and Date of Approval

Tadalafil contains the active ingredient Tadalafil. It was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on November 21, 2003, to treat erectile dysfunction. It has since received additional FDA approvals for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension and managing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Uses

Tadalafil treats Erectile dysfunction and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).

How is it administered?

Tadalafil can be consumed orally as advised by the doctor. The capsules are typically taken with water, with or without food, following the prescribed dosage and frequency for oral consumption. It is usually taken as needed, approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. The available doses are 5mg, 10mg and 20mg.

Side Effects

Tadalafil can cause both common and serious side effects. Common side effects include headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and nasal congestion. Serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, sudden vision loss or changes, priapism (prolonged and painful erection), and hearing loss or changes in hearing.

Warnings

It is not recommended to take tadalafil if you are allergic to the active compound tadalafil and its constituents. This medication is not advised to be used in women and individuals under 18. Tadalafil carries several important warnings that should be considered. These include the risk of priapism, a prolonged and painful erection requiring immediate medical attention. It can also cause drops in blood pressure, and individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should use caution. Rare sudden vision or hearing loss cases have been reported, and allergic reactions may occur.

Precautions

Tadalafil should be used with care in individuals with liver or kidney impairment, and caution is advised when consuming alcohol or grapefruit juice. Other considerations include the potential for interactions with certain medications and the need to disclose relevant medical conditions. Coadministration with riociguat may produce potentially fatal episodes of syncope or symptomatic hypotension. It should not be administered with organic nitrates as it may raise hypotension. Inform your physician about any serious heart disorders, low or high blood pressure, vision problems, sickle cell anemia, liver disorders, kidney disorders and if you had a recent heart attack.

Word of Advice

Tadalafil should be used with precautions and considerations. Before taking this medicine, inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially cardiovascular issues, liver or kidney impairment, anatomical deformities of the penis, or a history of priapism. Use caution if you have a bleeding disorder, stomach ulcers, or retinitis pigmentosa (a condition affecting the eye that leads to pigmentation in the eye). It may interact with certain medications, including nitrates and alpha-blockers. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and grapefruit juice, as they can affect the metabolism and effectiveness of the medication. It should not be used in women and children below 18 years. If you have a priapism, or an erection that lasts longer than four hours, get medical help right away because this condition might harm your penis permanently.

References

Eli Lilly Canada Inc, [Revised on 28th May 2020], [Accessed on 12th March 2024], https://pi.lilly.com/ca/cialis-ca-pm.pdf Lilly USA, LLC, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Oct 2011] [ Accessed on 12th March 2024], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021368s20s21lbl.pdf KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Androgens and drugs for erectile dysfunction, 7th edition, 2013, 303-304.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Tadalafil be used as a recreational drug?

No, Tadalafil should not be used as a recreational drug. It is a prescription medication specifically approved for treating erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Using it without a legitimate medical need can lead to potential health risks and complications.

Can Tadalafil increase sexual desire?

No, Tadalafil does not increase sexual desire or libido. It is designed to help erectile function by improving blood flow to the penis but does not impact sexual desire or arousal.

Can Tadalafil prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

No, Tadalafil does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is not a substitute for practicing safe sex, including the use of barrier methods such as condoms, to prevent the transmission of STIs.

Can I take Tadalafil if I have a heart condition?

Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions should use it with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It can lower blood pressure and may have interactions with certain heart medications.

How long does the effect of Tadalafil last?

The effects of Tadalafil can vary among individuals, but it is typically known for its long duration of action. The medication can remain effective for up to 36 hours after a single dose. However, sexual stimulation is required to achieve an erection.

Can I take Tadalafil if I have diabetes?

Individuals with diabetes can use Tadalafil, but before starting the medication person should consult a doctor. Diabetes can increase the risk of certain complications, and your healthcare provider can determine if this medication is appropriate for you based on your health status and other factors.

Can I split tadalafil tablets for a lower dosage?

Tadalafil tablets should not be split or crushed unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. The tablets are formulated to provide a precise dosage, and splitting them may affect the efficacy and safety of the medication.

Available Brands 24

Written By: Sakshi Anil More

Reviewed By: Dr. Tejashwin Adiga