Important Safety Information for Cialis® (tadalafil)
What is Cialis?
Cialis is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) under the brand name Adcirca.
How does Cialis work?
Cialis works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, which helps to achieve and maintain an erection. It also relaxes the muscles in the prostate and bladder, which can help relieve symptoms of BPH.
How should I take Cialis?
- Take Cialis exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- For ED, take Cialis before sexual activity, but not more than once per day.
- For BPH, take Cialis at the same time each day.
- Cialis can be taken with or without food.
What should I avoid while taking Cialis?
- Do not take Cialis if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, and isosorbide mononitrate. Taking Cialis with a nitrate medicine can cause a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure.
- Avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, which can increase the risk of side effects.
What are the possible side effects of Cialis?
Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Back pain
- Muscle aches
- Flushing
- Stuffy or runny nose
These side effects usually go away after a few hours. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately:
- An erection that lasts more than 4 hours (priapism)
- Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
- Sudden hearing decrease or hearing loss
Who should not take Cialis?
- Do not take Cialis if you are allergic to tadalafil or any of the ingredients in Cialis.
- Do not take Cialis if you are taking nitrates for chest pain or if you have been advised by your healthcare provider to avoid sexual activity due to heart problems.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Cialis?
- Inform your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you have or have had heart problems, high or low blood pressure, liver or kidney problems, or any other medical conditions.
- Tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What should I do in case of an overdose?
If you take too much Cialis, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.
For more detailed information, please consult your healthcare provider or refer to the official FDA guidelines*.
If you experience any adverse effects from prescription medications, please report them to the FDA. You can do this by visiting www.fda.gov/medwatch or calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
For a complete overview of safety information, refer to the full Prescribing Information. This summary does not cover all details.