What Men Must Know about Cialis Tablets

Eli Lilly and Company has announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Cialis (tadalafil) tablets for once daily use for the treatment of men who have both erectile dysfunction (ED) and the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (ED+BPH).

The FDA also approved Cialis for once daily use for a separate indication for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH. This means Cialis is now approved for three indications: ED, the signs and symptoms of BPH, and ED and the signs and symptoms of BPH in men who have both conditions.

However, it is important to note that Cialis is not to be taken with medicines called “nitrates” (often prescribed for chest pain); or with recreational drugs called “poppers” like amyl or butyl nitrite, as the combination may cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure; or if allergic to Cialis or Adcirca (tadalafil), or any of its ingredients.

Anyone who experiences any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash or hives, should call a healthcare provider or get help right away.

Cialis inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). By inhibiting PDE5 in the penis, Cialis helps produce vascular relaxation and increases blood flow. PDE5 enzymes are also found in the prostate and bladder. The mechanism for how Cialis reduces BPH symptoms has not been established.

ED is a condition where the penis does not fill with enough blood to harden and expand when a man is sexually excited, or when he cannot keep an erection. It is estimated that approximately 50% of men between 40-70 years old have ED. BPH is a condition where the prostate enlarges, which can cause urinary symptoms. ED and BPH are conditions that may occur in the same patient.

Men with ED have two different dosing options with Cialis in the United States – Cialis for once daily use (2.5 mg and 5 mg) and Cialis for use as needed (5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg).

Cialis for once daily use is approved to treat ED, the signs and symptoms of BPH, and ED and the signs and symptoms of BPH in men who have both conditions (ED+BPH). Only the 5 mg dose is approved to treat BPH and ED+BPH.

Cialis for once daily use can help men with ED be ready anytime between doses, so they do not have to plan sexual activity around taking a pill. It can also treat the signs and symptoms of BPH.

Cialis for use as needed is approved to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Cialis for use as needed should be taken before sexual activity. It may go to work quickly (in as little as 30 minutes in some men) and can work up to 36 hours.

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. Men 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 within two days.

Stop sexual activity and get medical help right away if you get symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sex. Sexual activity can put an extra strain on your heart, especially if your heart is already weak from a heart attack or heart disease.

And if you get an erection lasting more than 4 hours, seek immediate medical help to avoid long-term injury.

In rare instances, men taking prescription ED tablets, including Cialis, reported a sudden decrease or loss of vision or hearing (sometimes with ringing in the ears and dizziness).

It’s not possible to determine if these events are related directly to the ED tablets or to other factors. If you have a sudden decrease or loss of vision or hearing, stop taking any ED tablet, including Cialis and call a healthcare provider right away.

Moreover, Cialis does not cure ED or increase a man’s sexual desire. And it does not protect a man or his partner from sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. It is not for women or children. Cialis must be used only under a healthcare provider’s care. The announcement was made today, Oct. 7.