Cialis

Cialis is a medication that has been licensed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). In previous clinical studies, up to 78 percent of men reported that the drug allowed them to have successful intercourse. In most cases, Cialis starts working within an hour. The most common side effects include facial flushing, headache, and indigestion.

What Is Cialis?

Cialis® (tadalafil) is a prescription medication used for treating problems with obtaining or maintaining an erection.
 

Who Makes It?

Cialis is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company.
 

What Is Cialis Used For?

Cialis has been licensed to treat erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, can be a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. Essentially, erectile dysfunction is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
 

How Does It Work?

Cialis works by blocking a chemical that reverses an erection by allowing blood to flow out of the penis. More blood in the penis means an improved erection.
 
(Click How Does Cialis Work? for more information.)
 

Effects of Cialis

The effects of the drug can include:
 
  • Achieving and maintaining an erection during sexual activity
  • Having a harder erection during sexual activity
  • Experiencing greater frequency of orgasms
  • Having increased satisfaction with, and enjoyment of, intercourse.
     
In previous clinical studies, up to 78 percent of men reported that Cialis allowed them to have successful intercourse. The medication was also shown to be effective in men with various health problems and medical conditions.
 
(Click Effects of Cialis for more information.)
 

When Does It Start Working?

The time it takes for Cialis to work will vary, depending on the individual. In clinical studies, the medication began to work in as little as 30 minutes. For most men, though, it begins working within an hour. Cialis can work up to 36 hours after you take your dose.
 

When and How to Take It

Here are some general guidelines for when and how to take Cialis:
 
  • The medication comes in tablet form. It is taken as needed, usually one hour before sexual activity. However, you should not take Cialis more than once in a day.
     
  • Take your Cialis dosage with a glass of water. You may take it with or without food.
      
  • For Cialis to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Dosage Information

The dose of Cialis your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may be taking.
     
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Cialis Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Cialis

As with any medicine, side effects can occur with Cialis. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most men tolerate it well. If people do develop side effects, in most cases, they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
The most common side effects include:
 
  • Headache -- in up to 15 percent of men
  • Indigestion (dyspepsia) -- up to 10 percent
  • Back pain -- up to 6 percent
  • Muscle pain (myalgia) -- up to 4 percent
  • Nasal congestion -- up to 3 percent
  • Facial flushing -- up to 3 percent
  • Pain in the arms or legs -- up to 3 percent.

 

If you have cardiovascular disease or significant heart disease risk factors, there is an increased chance of serious problems related to your heart, brain, and blood vessels. These problems can lead to dangerous side effects, such as a heart attack, stroke, or sudden death.
 
Also, there have been rare cases of a condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) in people taking Cialis. This condition can lead to sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. If you experience any loss of vision while taking this medicine, contact your healthcare provider immediately (see Cialis and Blindness).
 
(Click Cialis Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Cialis can potentially interact with a number of different medicines (see Cialis Drug Interactions for more information).
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Cialis?

Prior to taking the drug, tell your healthcare provider if you have:
 
Also, tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, antacids, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Cialis Precautions and Warnings to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

There have been a limited number of cases in which people overdosed on Cialis. In these cases, side effects were similar to those seen at lower doses. If you happen to take too much, seek medical attention immediately.
 

How Should It Be Stored?

Cialis should be stored at room temperature. Also, keep Cialis and all medications out of the reach of children.
 

Available Strengths

Several strengths of Cialis are available. These include:
 
  • Cialis 5 mg
  • Cialis 10 mg
  • Cialis 20 mg.
     

Generic Cialis

There is currently no generic Cialis available for sale (see Generic Cialis).
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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