Cialis Tadalafil
Cialis is a close pharmacological relative of Viagra sildenafil, but has two distinctive characteristics - the rate of absorption following oral administration is unaffected by ingestion of food, and it can be expected to be active for 24 hours
Clinical trials have proved it to be as effective as Viagra and well tolerated with a similar side effect profile including headache and indigestion, occurrence rates being 14.5% and 12.3%, respectively. Facial flushing, a troublesome undesirable effect of Viagra, is less frequent at 4.1% (35% for Viagra).
As with Viagra, the only major interaction with other medication is that with nitrates, commonly used in the treatment of ischaemic heart disease. The manufacturers, Lilly Icos, stress the importance of the contra-indication of the use of Cialis in serious heart disease and after recent stroke.
Under 'special warnings', the manufacturers state: "A medical history and physical examination should be undertaken to diagnose erectile dysfunction and determine potential underlying causes, before pharmacological treatment is considered". The recommended dose is taken 30 minutes to 12 hours prior to sexual activity without regard to food or alcohol intake. The daily use of Cialis is "strongly discouraged because the long term safety after prolonged daily dosing has not been established".
Cialis is now available from The WellMan Clinic.
References:
- Manufacturer's summary of product characteristics.
- Brock, G.B., et al.: Efficacy and safety of tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: results of integrated analyses. J Urol, 168: 1332-1336, 2002.