Brand Names: Cialis

Generic Name: tadalafil (ta DAL a fil)

What is Cialis?

Cialis is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence). It works by helping to increase blood flow into the penis during sexual stimulation. This helps you to achieve and maintain an erection.

Cialis relaxes muscles and increases blood flow to particular areas of the body. It is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor.

Cialis may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

How Taken

Take Cialis exactly as your doctor prescribes. Cialis comes in different doses (5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg). For most men, the recommended starting Cialis dose is 10 mg. Cialis should be taken no more than once a day. Your doctor will prescribe the dose that is right for you.

Warnings/Precautions

Cialis can cause your blood pressure to drop suddenly to an unsafe level if it is taken with certain other medicines such as nitrates and alpha-blockers, and recreational drugs that contain nitrates called "poppers". A sudden drop in your blood pressure could cause you to become dizzy, faint, or have a heart attack or stroke. Until you are certain how you are affected by Cialis, use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery. Cialis contains some lactose and should not be taken by patients who are lactose intolerant. Also, during treatment you should avoid grapefruit juice. Taking Cialis with grapefruit juice can increase your chances of experiencing undesirable side effects. If you are taking medications with nitrates or nitric oxide, have uncontrolled blood pressure (high or low), or if you have a history of stroke or heart attack DO NOT take Cialis.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible Side Effects

The most common side effects with Cialis are headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and stuffy or runny nose. These side effects usually go away after a few hours. Patients who get back pain and muscle aches usually get it 12 to 24 hours after taking Cialis. Back pain and muscle aches usually go away by themselves within 48 hours. Call your doctor if you get a side effect that bothers you or one that will not go away.

Storage

Store Cialis at room temperature between 59 and 86 F (15 and 30 C).

Overdose

In cases of overdose, standard supportive measures should be adopted as required. Hemodialysis contributes negligibly to Cialis elimination.

More Information

Do not change your dose of Cialis without talking to your doctor. Your doctor may lower your dose or raise your dose, depending on how your body reacts to Cialis. Do not drink alcohol to excess when taking Cialis (for example, 5 glasses of wine or 5 shots of whiskey). When taken in excess, alcohol can increase your chances of getting a headache or getting dizzy, increasing your heart rate, or lowering your blood pressure.

Disclaimer

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.