What is Cialis and How Does it Work?
Contents
- 1 What is Cialis and How Does it Work?
- 2 What are the Different Doses of Cialis?
- 3 How Do I Take Cialis?
- 4 What Happens if I Take Too Much Cialis?
- 5 What Happens if I Miss a Dose of Cialis?
- 6 Can I Take Cialis with Other Medications?
- 7 What are the Side Effects of Cialis?
- 8 When Should I Contact My Doctor?
- 9 Conclusion
Cialis is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, allowing for increased blood flow and thus leading to an erection. Cialis is a type of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, which means it blocks the enzyme that breaks down the chemicals responsible for an erection.
What are the Different Doses of Cialis?
Cialis comes in several different doses, including 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets. The recommended starting dose for most men is 10mg, which can be taken as needed before sexual activity. However, some men may require a lower dose of 5mg or a higher dose of 20mg depending on their individual response to the medication.
How Do I Take Cialis?
Cialis should be taken approximately 30 minutes before sexual activity, although it can be taken up to 36 hours beforehand. It is important to take Cialis exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to not exceed the recommended dose. Cialis can be taken with or without food, but it may take longer to work if taken with a high-fat meal.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Cialis?
Taking more than the recommended dose of Cialis can lead to an increased risk of side effects, including headache, dizziness, nausea, and flushing. In rare cases, taking too much Cialis can also lead to a prolonged and painful erection, known as priapism. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking Cialis, seek medical attention immediately.
What Happens if I Miss a Dose of Cialis?
If you miss a dose of Cialis, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of Cialis to make up for a missed one.
Can I Take Cialis with Other Medications?
Cialis should not be taken with other medications that contain nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, as this can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure. It is also important to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as these may interact with Cialis and increase the risk of side effects.
What are the Side Effects of Cialis?
Like all medications, Cialis can cause side effects. The most common side effects include headache, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and indigestion. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own, but if they persist or become severe, contact your doctor. Less common side effects of Cialis include vision changes, hearing loss, and allergic reactions.
When Should I Contact My Doctor?
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms after taking Cialis: a prolonged and painful erection, sudden vision loss, sudden hearing loss, chest pain, or an allergic reaction. It is also important to contact your doctor if you experience any other unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Cialis.
Conclusion
Cialis is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction and BPH. It comes in several different doses and should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. While Cialis is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some people. If you have any questions or concerns about taking Cialis, contact your doctor.