Tadalafil
Pronounced
"tah-DA-la-fil"
Common brand names:
Cialis
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 often 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.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
Tadalafil is also available in another brand for high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension).
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from 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 keep 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.
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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.
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