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Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common issue in men, particularly as they age. This condition hampers the ability to maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. It’s not only a physical issue but can also have psychological impacts, affecting self-confidence and contributing to relationship problems.
One of the most effective treatments for ED is Cialis, a medication that has helped countless men overcome this condition.
Cialis, also known by its generic name Tadalafil, is a drug that relaxes muscles of the blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the penis. It is primarily used for treating erectile dysfunction and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). [1]
Cialis is one of the few ED medications that can be taken daily, offering more spontaneity for men who use it.
The popularity of Cialis has skyrocketed over the years. Its longer duration of action than other ED drugs offers flexibility that other treatments do not. Its effects can last up to 36 hours, and the option to take a daily dose allows for more spontaneous activity than with other ED drugs.
Cialis is a type of medication known as a PDE5 inhibitor. Active ingredient tadalafil works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5, increasing blood flow to the penis. This results in a firm and lasting erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Cialis does not result in an instant erection but aids in achieving one when sexually stimulated. [2]
Nitric oxide triggers the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which relaxes the smooth muscle cells. However, PDE-5 breaks down cGMP. By inhibiting PDE-5, Cialis ensures that cGMP levels remain high, thus maintaining an erection.
While several treatments are available for ED, Cialis offers several benefits over other options. Firstly, Cialis has a longer effect duration than other PDE-5 inhibitors. While Viagra and Levitra remain effective for about four to six hours, Cialis can last up to 36 hours. This extended window allows for more spontaneity in sexual activity, making it a popular choice among many men.
Secondly, Cialis can be taken daily, unlike other ED medications that must be taken one hour before sexual activity. This daily dosage option further enhances spontaneity and is particularly beneficial for men who engage in sexual activity more than twice a week.
Finally, Cialis is less affected by food and alcohol than other ED medications. This means that it can be taken with or without meals, and moderate alcohol consumption doesn’t impact its effectiveness.
Cialis is easy to use, but following the prescribed instructions carefully is important. The medication is typically taken orally, with or without food, as directed by a healthcare professional. It can be taken as needed, usually at least 30 minutes before sexual activity, or once a day every day.
The dosage of Cialis will depend on the individual’s medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications they may be taking. It’s crucial not to take more than one dose in 24 hours, and men should refrain from consuming excessive alcohol while using Cialis, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Cialis does not provide an instant erection; sexual stimulation is still necessary. It’s also important to note that Cialis does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, so individuals should continue to take precautions as necessary.
Cialis has several strengths, including 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets. The right dosage depends on several factors, including the severity of ED, the patient’s overall health, and their response to the medication.
For most individuals, the recommended starting dose is 10 mg, taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. Depending on the effectiveness and side effects, the dosage can be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg.
For daily use, the recommended dose is 2.5 mg, taken at the same time each day. If the daily dose is well-tolerated but not effective enough, it can be increased to 5 mg per day.
Like all medications, Cialis can cause side effects. Common side effects include headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushed skin, and stuffy or runny nose. These side effects usually go away after a few hours. However, if they persist or become bothersome, consulting a healthcare professional is essential [3].
In rare cases, Cialis can cause more serious side effects, such as an erection that won’t go away (priapism), sudden vision loss in one or both eyes, or sudden hearing decrease or loss. If any of these occur, immediate medical attention is required.[3]
Before taking Cialis, it’s crucial to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have heart disease, liver disease, or kidney disease. It’s also important to mention any other medications you’re taking, as Cialis can interact with certain drugs.
To use Cialis safely, it’s essential to follow your healthcare professional instructions. Take Cialis exactly as prescribed, without taking more or less than the recommended dose. Remember that Cialis does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, so safe sex practices should still be used.
It’s also important to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Cialis, as they can increase the medication levels in your bloodstream, leading to increased side effects. [4]
Lastly, if you experience any side effects or Cialis doesn’t seem to work for you, don’t hesitate to discuss this with your healthcare professional. They can adjust your dosage or suggest alternative treatments as necessary.
Besides treating ED, Cialis has also been approved for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate that can cause problems with urination. Cialis works in BPH by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder, thus improving urinary flow. [5]
Cialis is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a rare but serious condition affecting the lungs’ blood vessels. In PAH, Cialis works by relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs, allowing easier blood flow.
In conclusion, Cialis presents a revolutionary treatment for Erectile Dysfunction. With its unique benefits, such as its prolonged effect and the option for daily use, Cialis offers a more flexible and spontaneous approach to ED treatment.
Furthermore, its use in treating conditions like BPH and PAH highlights its potential to address various health issues. As research continues, we may see Cialis being used in other areas of medicine.
Finally, as we continue to break down the stigma around ED and promote open discussions about men’s health, medications like Cialis will play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for millions of men worldwide.
1. [1] – Mónica FZ, De Nucci G. Tadalafil for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2019 Jun;20(8):929-937. doi: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1589452. Epub 2019 Mar 22. PMID: 30901259.
2. [2] – Coward RM, Carson CC. Tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Dec;4(6):1315-30. doi: 10.2147/tcrm.s3336. PMID: 19337438; PMCID: PMC2643112.
3. [3] – Frajese GV, Pozzi F, Frajese G. Tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction; an overview of the clinical evidence. Clin Interv Aging. 2006;1(4):439-49. doi: 10.2147/ciia.2006.1.4.439. PMID: 18046921; PMCID: PMC2699638.
4. [4] – Shen X, Chen F, Wang F, Huang P, Luo W. The Effect of Grapefruit Juice on the Pharmacokinetics of Tadalafil in Rats. Biomed Res Int. 2020 Jan 24;2020:1631735. doi: 10.1155/2020/1631735. PMID: 32047806; PMCID: PMC7003282.
5. [5] – Roehrborn CG, McVary KT, Elion-Mboussa A, et al. Tadalafil administered once daily for lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia: a dose finding study. J Urol. 2008;180:1228–34.
