Over time, the development of new and improved prescription medication for treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) has meant that people suffering from this condition can now lead normal sex lives.

About Cialis

Cialis, active ingredient tadalafil, is a prescription drug that has helped change the lives of many people suffering from ED, for the better. Tadalafil is a PDE 5 inhibitor that has been developed and marketed by Lilly ICOS, LLC. It’s available in doses of 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. In its working, it resembles the other ED medications available on the market namely, Viagra and Levitra. But, out of the three, Cialis is the only drug that can be prescribed for daily use. Its other form, 36 hour Cialis is also known as the weekend pill.

Action mechanism

To understand how Cialis acts against erectile dysfunction, it’s important to understand the process of penile erection. The erection of your penis is a direct result of increased blood flow to the penile region. This happens due to the dilation of the penile arteries and also relaxation of the smooth muscle of the spongy penile tissues known as corpus cavernosum. The release of nitric oxide (NO) after sexual stimulation is the reason behind this erection. NO stimulates the release of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which in turn relaxes smooth muscles of the penis and also improves blood flow.

The PDE 5 inhibitor prevents the breaking down of cGMP, thereby increasing its levels in the smooth muscle cells. This helps a person get a firmer erection and also helps him maintain the erection for the time required for a satisfying sexual intercourse.

When do you avoid taking Cialis?

If you are taking any medication known as "nitrates", you must avoid Cialis. Also, if you are taking any recreational drugs known as "poppers" you might want to rethink about your idea of taking Cialis. Like all prescription medication, even this medication is not the right choice for everyone. It’s only your doctor who can tell you whether this is the perfect medication for your needs and requirements. A person allergic to any of the ingredients of Cialis must think twice before using this drug. At times, the usage can result in a severe allergic reaction that will pose a severe health risk to your body. If your health provider has advised you against any kind of sexual activity, owing to your health problem, then you must avoid Cialis.

Drugs affecting Cialis

Apprise you doctor of your medications intake, which includes over-the-counter and prescription medications. You must also mention your intake of herbal supplements. If your doctor thinks that Cialis might interact with other medications, then it won’t be prescribed to you. As said above, "nitrates" have been seen to interact with Cialis. The combination of certain alpha blockers with Cialis is known to dramatically decrease the blood pressure of a person. Precaution must also be maintained if you are taking HIV protease inhibitors. Also inform your doctor if you are taking some other medications for the treatment of ED. Only your doctor can decide whether Cialis will be a safe option for you or not, if you are taking other medications.