Cialis 20 mg – Tadalafil

How Does Cialis 20 mg Work?

The main active ingredient in Cialis 20 mg is the salt tadalafil, which comes under a category of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors). PDE5 inhibitors are essentially vasodilators, so they open up and dilate blood vessels, facilitating increased blood flow. Since the PDE5 enzyme is present in the corpora cavernosa of the penis, dilating the blood vessels here increases the amount of blood flowing to the penis, which helps in maintaining an erection and thus helps people with erectile dysfunction. The PDE5 enzyme is also found within the smooth muscle of the lungs which is why this medicine is prescribed for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. 

Cialis works only in the presence of nitric oxide, which is naturally released in the body when it is in a state of sexual arousal. Thus, Cialis will only be effective if you are sexually stimulated.

Dosage

One of the reasons for Cialis’ enduring popularity is the variety of doses that it is available in, providing a wide variety of options in terms of dosing flexibility. There are broadly two categories of dosing for people who use Cialis- as-needed dosage, and daily dosing.

As needed dosage for Cialis usually starts from 20 mg but can be increased to up to 80 mg by your physician. The medicine usually takes about 30 minutes to work and only works in a state of sexual arousal, so it should be taken about a half-hour before intercourse. Cialis may sometimes take up to 2 hours to work, so you should consult your doctor for the ideal timeframe. 

A daily dosing schedule is also followed for people suffering from erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or both. In this type of dosing, the strength of the drug prescribed is usually on the lower end i.e. 5mg. 

The optimal dose for each individual can vary, according to their lifestyles and other preexisting health conditions. A physician should be consulted to help suggest the ideal dose for you.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Cialis 20 mg is usually taken as needed. Therefore, it is quite unlikely that you might miss a dose. In no situation should you take more than the suggested dose, as it can lead to a painful condition called priapism, which is an erection for a prolonged period of time. This can cause damage to the penis tissue, so extreme caution must be exercised to avoid this. Other issues caused by an overdose include severe dizziness or fainting. Seek immediate medical help in case of an overdose.

Side Effects

Cialis 20 mg, like any other drug, has a few side effects, which can be caused either by the drug on its own or due to an interaction with another drug you may be taking for a preexisting condition. Some common side effects include but are not limited to:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Flushing
• Indigestion, or dyspepsia
• Back pain

These side effects are quite common and cause relatively less discomfort, which usually subsides on its own once your body adjusts to the medication. Other serious side effects which are more concerning include:

• Priapism, or a painful and prolonged erection that lasts for more than 4 hours
• Reduced hearing or changes in vision
• Low blood pressure
• Pain in arms or jaw

These side effects can be quite serious, and you should immediately seek professional medical help in case you experience any of them. 

Warnings

1. Cialis 20 mg should be prescribed only to people suffering from erectile dysfunction, and care should be taken not to use it for recreational purposes to avoid any adverse drug interactions and side effects.
2. Nitrates or alpha-blockers should not be taken along with Cialis. In fact, if you take any drugs for blood pressure or heart conditions that include the mentioned ingredients, you should disclose them to your doctor so that they can prescribe other drugs.
3. Cialis should be kept away from children to avoid accidental consumption. 
4. Consumption of alcohol when taking Cialis should also be monitored, as excessive alcohol can inhibit your ability to get aroused, which is essential for Cialis to work. It can also reduce your blood pressure to dangerous levels, so it is better to avoid alcohol while taking Cialis.

Cialis is not recommended for use by women.

Storage Instructions

• Store Cialis in a proper container in a cool and dry place, away from heat, moisture, or direct sunlight.
• Ensure that the drug is out of the reach of children and pets.
• The pills should not be taken past their date of expiration to avoid complications

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can Cialis be cut in half?

Cialis is available in a variety of doses, from 5mg to 80mg. Thus, it is advisable to not cut the tablet in half and get the required dosage instead. Breaking the pill might lead to a change in the rate of absorption of the pill into the bloodstream and cause adverse effects.

• Can Cialis and Viagra be taken together?

Although containing different constituent salts, both Viagra and Cialis perform the same function, as both are PDE5 inhibitors. Therefore, they should never be taken together to avoid increased side effects, which can cause irreparable tissue damage to the penis, and even lead to a fatal drop in blood pressure.

• Is Cialis safe?

Cialis is a very commonly prescribed medication and is safe for consumption by men if prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner after reviewing your age and other health conditions.

• Can women take Cialis?

Since Cialis is primarily prescribed for erectile dysfunction, women should not take it.