Tadalafil

Uses

Tadalafil is used to treat male sexual function problems (impotence or erectile dysfunction-ED). In combination with sexual stimulation, tadalafil works by increasing blood flow to the penis to help a man get and keep an erection.Tadalafil is also used to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia-BPH). It helps to relieve symptoms of BPH such as difficulty in beginning the flow of urine, weak stream, and the need to urinate frequently or urgently (including during the middle of the night). Tadalafil is thought to work by relaxing the smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder.This drug does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV, hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis). Practice "safe sex" such as using latex condoms. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

How to use Tadalafil

Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking tadalafil and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. Do not take tadalafil more often than once daily.

The manufacturer directs to swallow this medication whole. However, many similar drugs (immediate-release tablets) can be split/crushed. Follow your doctor's directions on how to take this medication.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

To treat the symptoms of BPH, take this medication as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. If you are also taking finasteride with this medication to treat symptoms of BPH, talk with your doctor about how long you should continue taking this medication.

To treat erectile dysfunction-ED, there are 2 ways that tadalafil may be prescribed. Your doctor will determine which is the best way for you to take tadalafil. Follow your doctor's directions exactly since your dosage depends on how you are taking it. The first way is to take it as needed, usually at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. Tadalafil's effect on sexual ability may last up to 36 hours.

The second way to treat ED is to take tadalafil regularly, once a day every day. If you take it this way, you may attempt sexual activity at any time between your doses.

If you are taking tadalafil to treat both ED and BPH, take it as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. You may attempt sexual activity at any time between your doses.

If you are taking tadalafil once daily for BPH, or for ED, or for both, take it regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Side Effects

Headache, stomach upset, back pain, muscle pain, stuffy nose, flushing, or dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Sexual activity may put extra strain on your heart, especially if you have heart problems. If you have heart problems and experience any of these serious side effects while having sex, stop and get medical help right away: severe dizziness, fainting, chest/jaw/left arm pain, nausea.

Rarely, sudden decreased vision, including permanent blindness, in one or both eyes (NAION) may occur. If this serious problem occurs, stop taking tadalafil and get medical help right away. You have a slightly greater chance of developing NAION if you have heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, certain other eye problems ("crowded disk"), high blood pressure, if you are over 50, or if you smoke.