Common uses of Cialis
Cialis is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor used to treat sexual function problems
such as impotence or erectile dysfunction. In combination with sexual stimulation,
this medicine works by helping the blood flow into the penis to achieve and
maintain an erection. Cialis is not intended for use in women or children. Cialis
will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases including HIV infection.
Use ’safe sex’ practices such as latex condoms.
Before using of Cialis
Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with Cialis. Do not take
cialis if you are also taking or using any form of nitroglycerin, other nitrates
such as isosorbide, nitroprusside or any ‘nitric oxide donor’ medicine,
or recreational drugs called ‘poppers’ containing amyl or butyl
nitrate because very serious interactions may occur.
Do not take cialis if you are taking certain alpha-blocker medicines such as
alfuzosin, doxazosin, prazosin, or terazosin.
Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking
any other medicine for erectile dysfunction; certain antifungal medicines such
as itraconazole or ketoconazole; macrolide antibiotics such as clarithromycin
or erythromycin; medicine for high blood pressure; or HIV protease inhibitors
such as ritonavir or indinavir.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform
your doctor of any other medical conditions including penis problems; history
of painful or prolonged erection; any heart problems; kidney problems; stomach
ulcers; bleeding problems; blood cell problems such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia,
or myeloma; eye diseases, especially retina diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa;
uncontrolled high blood pressure; or allergies.
Use of cialis is not recommended if you have a history of angina or chest pain,
heart attack, stroke, low blood pressure, severe liver problems, or if you have
been told by your healthcare provider to not have sexual activity because of
certain health problems.
Directions
Take cialis by mouth as needed before sexual activity as directed by your doctor.
Do not take cialis more often than once daily. If you are taking certain other
medicines you may only be able to take this medicine one time every two or three
days. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Cialis may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Store this medicine at
room temperature 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container,
away from heat and light. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and
30 degrees C) is permitted.
Cautions
Do not take cialis if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic
to any ingredient in this product. Cialis may rarely cause dizziness or vision
changes. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anythind else that could be
dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. Using cialis alone,
with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to
perform other potentially dangerous tasks. To minimize dizziness or lightheadness,
sit up or stand slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. Alcohol
may increase your risk for side effects, including headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol when using this medicine.
Do not exceed the recommended doze without checking with your doctor. Your
dose is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and the other
medicines you are taking.
Sexual activity may put extra strain on your heart, especially if you have
heart problems. If you have heart problems and experience any symptoms while
having sex, stop having sex and tell your doctor immediately. These symptoms
include severe dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or nausea.
Caution is advised when using this medicine in the eldery because they may
be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine. This medicine should
not be used in women or children.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects that may occur while taking cialis include headache, flushing,
stomach upset or nausea, heartburn, stuffy or runny nose, back pain, muscle
pain, or vision changes such as trouble telling the difference between blue
and green or seeing a blue tinge to objects. If these continue or are bothersome,
check with your doctor.
In the unlikely event that you have a painful or prolonged erection (lasting
more than 4 hours), stop using cialis and seek immediate medical attention or
permanent problems may occur.
An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely but seek immediate medical
attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching,
unusual swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency
room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include back pain, muscle pain, and
abnormal vision.
Additional information
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
Do nit share cialis with others for whom it was not prescribed, since they may
have a problem that is not effectively treated with cialis, or they may have
a condition that is complicated by cialis.
Do not use cialis for other health conditions. Keep cialis out of the reach
of children and pets. If using cialis for an extended period of time, obtain
refills before your supply runs out.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine
from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with cialis.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine
that you are taking.