Cialis is used in the treatment of impotence in men, commonly known as erectile dysfunction. This describes the condition where men have difficulty both achieving and/or maintaining an erection. They cannot perform sexually therefore. The action of the drug is that it enables the blood vessels to relax in the male sex organ. When they become relaxed, blood can more easily flow into the penis. The drug is only effective for this dysfunction if the male is already aroused sexually.
The drug should only be used by men 18 years of age or older.The active ingredient in the tablets is called tadalafil. Tadalafil is a member of a group of medicines which are known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors.
Individuals should refrain from taking Cialis if they presently take amyl nitrite or any nitrates. Cialis has the capability of amplifying the effects of these, which are used in the treatment of heart conditions and angina.
Cialis should not be taken in patients who have been advised not to have sexual intercourse due to blood vessel or heart problems. Those who have suffered a stroke in the prior six months or who have suffered a more recent heart attack should consult a physician before taking this drug. Anyone who is allergic to the ingredients listed on the package is also advised not to take it.
If there is any doubt or question as to whether Cialis should be taken, a doctor should be consulted.
The drugs should be taken as directed by the doctor. For erectile dysfunction it should be administered once daily or on demand. The dosage taken on demand is generally 10 or 20 mg before sexual activity is expected to occur.
The 5 mg dosage is taken by patients who expect to use Cialis two times a week. Cialis taken daily will enable the individual to obtain an erection after sexual stimulation has occurred, at any specific time in a 24 hour day. The 5 mg dosage treatment is likely to take up to one week for the entire effects to be experienced.
To alleviate the symptoms experienced by those with benign prostate hyperplasia, the dosage is 5 mg taken daily. The objective is to lessen the frequent urination, or urgent urination too soon after the individual has emptied their bladder.
Individuals with liver disease generally are advised to take 10 mg daily. Those with serious hepatic impairment would be advised to adhere to their physician’s advice. There is no specific recommended dosage for individuals 75 years of age or older to take. It should be swallowed whole, not divided, with a whole glass of water. It is okay to take it either with or without alcohol or food. It is suggested however that the use of alcohol is likely to affect the individual’s ability to achieve an erection.
Patients who suspect or know they have taken too much are advised to call the Australian Poisons Information Centre (telephone 13 11 26) or their physician or the New Zealand National Poisons Centre (0800 POISON or 0800 764 766). Other alternatives include going to the nearest hospital emergency room.
