Tadalafil: A Comprehensive Medication Profile

Summary or Key Points

Tadalafil, often known by the brand name Cialis, is a medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and pulmonary arterial hypertension. This article provides crucial information about Tadalafil, including dosing, potential side effects, contraindications, and drug interactions. Always consult with your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Cialis (Tadalafil)

The term ‘generic name’ refers to the universally recognized chemical name of a drug, regardless of the brand. For example, Tadalafil is the generic name (noted in parentheses).

Pharmacologic Category

Tadalafil belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Other medications in this category include Sildenafil (Viagra), Vardenafil (Levitra), and Avanafil (Stendra).

Dosing

• Erectile Dysfunction: The usual dose is 10 mg taken prior to anticipated sexual activity, with adjustments between 5 mg and 20 mg based on individual response and tolerability. Tadalafil can also be taken daily at lower doses of 2.5 mg or 5 mg.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): The recommended dose is 5 mg, taken once daily at approximately the same time each day.
• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: 40 mg (two 20 mg tablets) once daily with or without food.

Always consult your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team before adjusting your dose.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Tadalafil is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Tablets: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg

Administration Instructions

Take Tadalafil tablets orally, with or without food. Do not split, break, or crush the tablets. Take it at the same time each day if you are taking it for BPH or for both BPH and erectile dysfunction.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Common side effects of Tadalafil include headaches, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushed skin, and stuffy or runny nose. Rare but serious side effects include a prolonged erection that can lead to damage to the penis and sudden-onset hearing loss. Seek medical help immediately if you experience these side effects.

Contraindications

Contraindications refer to conditions or factors that serve as a reason to refrain from using a particular treatment due to potential harm. Tadalafil is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to Tadalafil or any component of the tablet.
• Use of nitrate drugs for heart issues or chest pain, as the combination can cause a serious drop in blood pressure.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Several medications interact with Tadalafil, such as:

• Nitrates (Nitroglycerin, Isosorbide Mononitrate, Isosorbide Dinitrate)
• Alpha-blockers (Tamsulosin, Alfuzosin)
• Certain antifungal medications (Ketoconazole, Itraconazole)
• Certain antibiotics (Erythromycin, Clarithromycin)
• Protease inhibitors used to treat HIV (Ritonavir, Saquinavir)

Tadalafil in Pregnancy

Tadalafil is classified as FDA pregnancy category B. Animal studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. Always consult your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking Tadalafil.

Tadalafil while Breastfeeding

It is unknown whether Tadalafil is excreted into human milk. Consult your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before taking Tadalafil.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Tadalafil (30 tablets of 5mg) without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is about $15-$90. Prices can vary depending on location and pharmacy.

Possible Alternatives

• Erectile Dysfunction: Alternative treatments include other PDE5 inhibitors, vacuum erection devices, intracavernous or intraurethral prostaglandins, or surgical implants. Lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and reducing stress levels, may also help.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Alternative treatments include alpha-blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, or surgery. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can also be beneficial.
• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Other treatments include prostanoids, endothelin receptor antagonists, and soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators.

Always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Recent Updates on Tadalafil Research

Research into the uses of Tadalafil continues. Studies are exploring its potential in treating other conditions such as stroke, heart failure, and bladder dysfunction. However, these potential uses are still being investigated and are not yet approved by the FDA. Our telemedicine team stays updated with the latest research to provide the most current care.

Conclusion

Always consult with a healthcare provider when considering changes to your medication regimen. Our telemedicine team is available to help you navigate these decisions and provide personalized care, no matter where you are.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and changes may occur that may not be reflected here. Please discuss any concerns or questions you have about your health or medications with your healthcare provider.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.