Tadalafil (Cialis) is a yellow, film-coated, and almond shaped drug that is prescribed for treating symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy) and erectile dysfunction. This oral tablet belongs to a group of drugs that is known as PDE 5 (phosphodiesterase type 5) inhibitors. It does not help in increasing libido because it is not an aphrodisiac. Cialis requires sexual stimulation in order to work. Adcirca, which is used for improving exercise capacity in women and men, and treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, is another brand of Cialis (tadalafil).
The difference between Cialis and Viagra
Viagra and Cialis belong to a class of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors. The length of duration of these two drugs is the main difference between them. It has been proven that Cialis gives a broader window of opportunity to those who use it to choose when to have sex because it lasts for a maximum of 36 hours. On average, Generic Viagra is effective for 4 to 6 hours.
How Cialis works
Cialis relaxes the blood vessels in your penis and causes an erection by allowing your blood to flow into your penis. However, this drug will only help you to get an erection if you are sexually stimulated. You should not use it if you do not have erectile dysfunction.
How you should take Cialis
You can find Cialis in two strengths, 20 mg and 10 mg. The 10 mg dose is only available for patients with kidney problems (renal impairment and hence,the recommended dose that you should start with is 20 mg. You should take this drug before having sexual intercourse. You can take it with or without alcohol or food. According to clinical trials, Cialis begins to work in as little as sixteen minutes with sexual stimulation and can remain effective for a maximum of 36 hours. Doctors recommend a maximum dose of one tablet every day. You should take Cialis only according to your doctor’s instructions, who will consider other medications that you may be using.
Possible side effects of Cialis
All PDE5 inhibitors have the same side effects. Clinical trials that were carried out on more than four thousand men showed that upset stomachs and headaches were the most common side effects of Cialis. Flushing, backache, mild muscle aches (myalgia), and nasal congestion were its less frequent side effects. The side effects of this drug lasted for a short time, were mild to moderate, and decreased as these men continued to use it. Cialis does not affect vision.
People who cannot use Cialis
• Patients who are using nitrate medicines. Doctors commonly prescribe nitrate medications for relieving chest pain (angina pectoris). These medications could lower your blood pressure if you combine them with Cialis. You should tell your doctor if you are using any of these medications.
• Men who have been told by their doctors that they are not fit enough to start having sexual intercourse. You should not use Cialis if sexual activity is inadvisable for you because you have unstable cardiovascular disease such as severe congestive heart failure and unstable angina.

I am self employed. General Practitioner in Melbourne, VIC. My special interest: male reproductive system.