What is Cialis?
Cialis (tadalafil) is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and enlarged prostate symptoms. It is a type of phosphodiesterase inhibitor and works by increasing blood flow to the penis so you can get and maintain an erection. Cialis also helps to relieve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Taken as a pill, Cialis is usually taken before sexual activity, although there is also a daily dosing option that is effective for up to 24 hours. Common side effects of Cialis include flushing, upset stomach, headaches, back pain, and muscle aches. Cialis can interact with some medications and your doctor should be made aware of any medications you take before prescribing this drug to you. Not taking the drug correctly or taking it with certain other drugs can be dangerous.
How does Cialis work?
Cialis is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It helps men with erectile dysfunction (ED) get and keep an erection by improving blood flow to the penis. This happens when a man experiences sexual arousal, which sends signals from the brain to the nerves in the penis. This triggers increased blood flow which then causes an erection. Cialis works by preventing the action of a chemical in the body called phosphodiesterase type 5. This allows for greater blood flow to the penis, which helps make it easier to get an erection and maintain it. The effects of Cialis typically last for up to 36 hours after taking it. Cialis can be taken when needed, usually at least 30 minutes before sexual activity or it can be taken as a daily medication. Cialis should not be taken more than once per day.
H3: Types of Cialis
Cialis is available in different types, which are designed to address different user needs.
- Cialis On Demand is designed for men who prefer not to take medication every day and prefers to only take Cialis prior to sexual activity. This type of Cialis comes in 10mg and 20mg doses and can be taken with or without food.
- Cialis Once a Day is a lower strength version of On Demand, and is usually taken once every 24 hours. This type of Cialis is approved for daily use. It is a good option for men who want more spontaneity for sexual activity without worrying about a pre-medication.
No matter which type of Cialis you choose, it is important to speak with a doctor to determine which type is best for you. With the array of different Cialis types available, you can find one that best meets your needs and helps you get the results you expect.
Benefits of Cialis
Cialis is an effective erectile dysfunction (ED) medication that is used to treat the condition in men. Cialis works by increasing blood flow to the penis, allowing a man to achieve and maintain an erection . Getting effective treatment for ED can have many positive benefits, such as:
- More intimacy in close relationships
- More self-confidence
- Better mental well-being
Benefits for erectile dysfunction
Cialis is an oral prescription medication approved by Health Canada for improving symptoms of ED in men. It works by helping to relax the blood vessels and increase the blood flow to the penis, which helps to maintain an erection. Compared to other ED medications, Cialis has a longer duration of action, so it can remain in the body for up to 36 hours, helping men to achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused. Additionally, Cialis is easy to take and can be taken with or without food. It is usually well-tolerated with minimal side effects. With Cialis once-daily dosing, men with ED can have more spontaneity for sexual activity without worrying about timing of pre-medication.
Benefits to prostate health
Cialis can also be used to treat prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is an enlarged prostate caused by excess tissue growth in the prostate gland. Cialis can help reduce the symptoms associated with BPH, such as frequent and difficult urination. Regardless of whether you have concurrent ED or not, Cialis 5 mg once daily can help decrease BPH symptoms.
Side effects of Cialis
Although Cialis is an effective medication, it may have some side effects, such as headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and nasal congestion. In some cases, side effects may be more serious and require medical attention, such as vision changes, and an erection lasting more than four hours. If any of these effects occur, it is important to contact a healthcare provider immediately. Generally, the most common side effects of Cialis are mild and may go away on their own. If side effects persist or worsen, it is important to speak with a doctor or pharmacist to discuss options to reduce or prevent the effects.
How to take Cialis
There are 2 ways to use Cialis.
- On Demand. If you are taking Cialis on-demand, take one tablet about 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity.
- Once daily. If you take Cialis regularly every day, take one tablet each day at the same time.
What to avoid when taking Cialis
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when taking Cialis:
- Don’t take more than one dose in a 24 hour period
- Don’t take a higher dose than recommended by your doctor
- Do not take any nitrate-containing medications, such as nitroglycerin spray or nitrate tablets for chest pain. This can make your blood pressure drop dangerously low.
Don’t take any medications before checking with your pharmacist or doctor. Certain blood pressure or prostate medications, such as terazosin or doxazosin, can interact with Cialis to decrease your blood pressure.
Alternatives to Cialis
There are a few medication alternatives to Cialis:
- Generic versions of tadalafil
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Vardenafil (Levitra)
These medications all belong to the PDE5 inhibitor class and work in a similar way as Cialis.
In addition to medications, lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking and drinking alcohol in moderation, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, can help with ED. Penile vacuum pumps and constriction rings can also be used to help maintain an erection. Psychological therapy can also be beneficial for some men with ED.
It is best to speak to a doctor to determine which ED treatment is best for you. They may suggest an alternative to Cialis if it is not suitable.
