Tadalafil (Cialis): treating Erectile Dysfunction.
Tadalafil is a medicine that is used primarily for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostate hypertrophy (HBP).
1. Action and mechanism for action
-Tadalafil inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5), resulting in a higher concentration of cyclic monophosphate guanosin (cGMP) in smooth muscle tissues of the penis and prostate.
-in the penis, increasing cGMP causes smooth muscle relaxation, allowing normal blood flow to the penis and facilitating erection.
-in the prostate, it helps relax smooth muscles and improve symptoms of PBH.
2. Dose and administration
-the 5 milligrams dose is one of the doses available for tadalafil.
-it is usually taken by mouth, with or without food. However, absorption may be slightly slower if taken with a high fat meal.
-in the case of SD treatment, the dose may be adjusted according to the individual response of the patient. Some patients may require a higher dose (e.g. 10 to 20 milligrams) if they do not respond adequately to the 5 milligrams dose.
-in the treatment of HBP, the 5 milligrams dose may be an option to manage symptoms, as it has beneficial effects on relaxation of smooth prostate and bladder muscles.
3. Precautions and side effects
-precautions:
-it should not be used by patients taking nitrates, as the combination can cause a drastic drop in blood pressure, which can be dangerous.
-it should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, since although tadalafil is generally well tolerated, it may have interactions with cardiovascular function.
-side effects:
-the most common side effects include headache, heartburn, back pain, muscle pain, nasal congestion, and skin rashes. However, not all patients experience these effects, and in most cases they are mild and transient.
It is important that tadalafil is used under medical supervision, as the doctor can assess the adequacy of treatment, possible interaction with other medications, and monitoring efficacy and safety.