Tadalafil drugs are primarily used by men for treating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence issues and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Besides, these are also prescribed for the treatment of a condition known as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
Tadalafil drugs come in the form of pills or tablets for oral administration. These pills are available as generic drugs and branded drugs. Brand drug drugs are usually sold by prescription, while generic drugs do not require any prescription to make the purchase. These are sold under the brand names – Cialis and Adcirca.
About tadalafil
Tadalafil is a vasodilator drug that belongs to the class of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Being a PDE5 inhibitor, tadalafil stops the action of some PDE5 enzymes from clogging the passages of the blood vessels. These PDE5 enzymes are present in the inner linings of the blood vessels. They suppress the release of a chemical known as nitric oxide, in the walls of the blood vessels.
Nitric oxide is an essential chemical, which maintains the healthy function of the blood vessels. It keeps them relaxed and wide, which allows efficient blood circulation. PDE5 affects blood circulation by suppressing nitric oxide release. However, tadalafil effectively inhibits the PDE5 action and relaxes the blood vessels to allow proper blood flow through them.
Tadalafil for erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction stems from the lack of blood flow to the penile. The blood flow is hindered because of the formation of clogs in the passages of the blood vessels, which block the blood flow inside. These blockages are a result of the hyperactivity of PDE5 enzymes, which deprives the blood vessel walls of adequate nitric oxide to maintain their optimal health. This leads to the narrowing and hardening of the penile blood vessels.
Tadalafil stops the action of PDE5 enzymes and triggers the release of nitric oxide in the inner walls of the penile blood vessels. Nitric oxide relaxes the blood vessels and dilates the narrowed and hardened blood vessels to allow more blood to inside the penile. As the penile engorges with blood, it makes it easier for men to get and sustain stronger erections.
Tadalafil for benign prostatic hyperplasia
The effects of tadalafil alleviate the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is a condition in men that causes their prostate gland to become enlarged. Prostate enlargement gives rise to many symptoms such as urination difficulties, frequent urge to pass urine, trouble while starting the urine, inability to empty the bladder completely, etc. Tadalafil relieves these symptoms to a great extent.
Tadalafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension
The healthcare provider prescribes tadalafil for use in males, females, and even children. The doses may vary depending on age. In individuals dealing with pulmonary hypertension, the condition causes a dangerous rise in the blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. They develop symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, edema, cough, heart palpitations, dizziness, fainting, etc.
Tadalafil expands and relaxes the arteries of the lungs by overcoming their narrowness. It causes the dilation of the arteries, which opens their passages and allows more blood to flow inside the lungs. This increases blood flow due to vasodilation, which decreases the pressure with which the blood is flowing inside the arteries. As the blood pressure drops, the symptoms get relieved.
Side effects of tadalafil
Common side effects:
- Headache and nausea
- Stuffy nose
- Flushing in the face, neck, and chest
- Upset stomach
- Muscle aches and back pain
- Pain in arms and legs
These are common symptoms that can be of mild intensity. They disappear on their own after some time.
Uncommon and rare side effects:
- Priapism or prolonged and painful erections that remain for more than 4 hours
- Vision impairment
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Hearing loss in one or both ears
- Chest pain
- Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
These are rare symptoms. But in case any of these symptoms arise, one must immediately see their healthcare provider and seek medical attention.
Warnings and Precautions
- Combining the use of alcohol or grapefruit beverages with tadalafil drugs can potentiate the risk of adverse effects post-interactions.
- The effect of tadalafil might affect your alertness by causing dizziness and blurry vision. So, avoid some intense activities like sports, strength training, machine operating, driving, etc.
