Cialis is an oral medication used by men for erectile dysfunction, or impotence, symptoms of which include being unable to get or maintain an erection. It can also be used to relieve the symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia) which is when the prostate gland gets bigger with age, symptoms can include difficulty passing urine and a feeling of a full bladder. The active ingredient in Cialis is tadalafil which belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Cialis works for ED by relaxing the blood vessels in your penis, improving the flow of blood. When being used for erectile dysfunction, this medication only works if you are already sexually aroused, you will still need to engage in foreplay for Cialis to work. For symptoms of enlarged prostate, Cialis works by improving blood flow to the prostate and bladder and also relaxing the the muscles to both.
In South Africa, Cialis, and other generic Tadalafil is available to buy at many online pharmacies without a prescription. Cialis is a small yellow tear drop shaped pill and is available for erectile dysfunction either as an “on demand” dose, which requires the tablet (10 mg or 20 mg) to be taken prior (30 to 60 minutes) to sexual activity, or a lower dose of 5 mg to be taken daily if you anticipate frequent use of CIALIS (at least twice a week) This lower dose would allow you to obtain an erection, when sexually stimulated, at any time point during the 24 hours of the day.
If taking Cialis to alleviate symptoms of enlarged prostate you should be taking the daily 5mg dose. It may take up to a week to notice any improvement in symptoms and up to one month to get the full effect of the medication.
Cialis is not to be used by women or by children under the age of 18 and any man over 75 should seek medical advice before taking this medicine as they are more at risk to complications such as dizziness and diarrhoea.
There are many possible side effects and complications that need to be taken into account when using this medication. You cannot take this medication if you are taking amyl nitrite, or any other nitrates. Nitrates are used to treat Angina and other heart conditions and Cialis may increase the effect of these medicines. Also do not take this medicine if you f you use recreational drugs called poppers or amyl or any nitrite that is taken through inhalation. You should not take Cialis if you have had a stroke in the last six months or heart attack in the last three months, or if your blood pressure is abnormally low or high, or if you have any heart problems. Side effects can be serious and can include migraine, sweating, prolonged erection, dizziness, loss of vision (rare), stomach pain, back pain, increased heart beat. Prolonged erections lasting longer that 4 hours need medical attention and you should see a doctor immediately. Taking Cialis with alcohol may cause dizziness.
In the case of an overdose of Cialis, please telephone your doctor immediately or contact the Poisons Information Centre.
Medical Practitioner (General Practice) with postgraduate diplomas in Cape Town. My special interest is erectile dysfunction.