What is Tadalafil: Understand the Effects and Recommendations

Tadalafil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension, belonging to the class of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Learn more!

Tadalafil, also known as tadalafil in English, is a medication widely used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, a condition that affects, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), 30% of the male population in Brazil. This condition prevents erection or causes difficulty in maintaining it during sexual activity.

This type of medication is usually the first treatment strategy for erectile dysfunction. In the case of tadalafil, its efficacy and prolonged duration have made the drug a popular option, highly sought after by patients looking to treat erectile dysfunction quickly, effectively, and discreetly.

In today’s article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about tadalafil, highlighting its effects, recommended dosage, possible side effects, and important considerations for those who wish to start treatment with this medication.

Throughout this article, you will find extremely important information for those suffering from sexual impotence, which can help you make decisions about the use of tadalafil to improve your sexual health and, ultimately, your quality of life and relationship with your partner.

If you are considering using this medication, this guide is essential to better understand how tadalafil works and how it can benefit your sex life. Stay tuned!

What is Tadalafil

Belonging to the class of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, tadalafil works by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the penis, thus facilitating the achievement and maintenance of an erection.

Since the early 2000s, tadalafil has been one of the pioneering options in treating erectile dysfunction available on the market.

It stands out for its ability to maintain effects for over 36 hours, representing a significant advancement in the field of male sexual health because it promises greater flexibility and spontaneity in sexual activities.

When Tadalafil is Prescribed

Now that you know what tadalafil is, let’s understand when the medication is prescribed. It is mainly indicated for men who have erectile dysfunction, a condition where it is difficult or impossible to achieve or maintain a firm enough erection for sexual activity.

Doctors may also prescribe tadalafil to treat a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (or simply enlarged prostate), which can cause difficulty urinating due to urethral narrowing.

Furthermore, in smaller doses, there is research that supports using tadalafil for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension, helping to slow disease progression.

It is essential to remember that this medication should be prescribed by a doctor. Only after an individual assessment of a patient is it safe for the doctor to evaluate, based on their history and health conditions, whether consumption is recommended.

Difference Between Sildenafil and Tadalafil

When comparing sildenafil and tadalafil, it is possible to state that both medications have similar effects, suitable for treating erectile dysfunction.

Both belong to the class of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors but have different action profiles: while sildenafil acts quickly (usually within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion), tadalafil can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect.

However, tadalafil has a prolonged effect that can last up to 36 hours, while sildenafil’s effect generally lasts 4 to 6 hours. Similarities are also found in the side effects during the use of both drugs.

Now, if you are experiencing problems related to the consumption of tadalafil or sildenafil, watch the video below:

How the Medication Works

Tadalafil does not cause an erection on its own but improves the body’s natural response to sexual stimulation. That’s why stimulation is necessary, and also why the medication only starts to work after some time.

The body releases nitric oxide in the erectile tissue, activating an enzyme called “guanylate cyclase.” This leads to increased levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), resulting in muscle relaxation and increased blood flow to the organ, thus facilitating an erection.

Tadalafil works by selectively inhibiting the action of PDE5, an enzyme that degrades cGMP, thus limiting blood flow to the penis and hindering erection, allowing levels to remain active longer. This results in a longer-lasting erection.

How to Tell if Tadalafil is Working

The effect of tadalafil is usually noticed when there is sexual stimulation. Improvement in erection is one of the main signs.

Additionally, the medication often brings a broader sense of pleasure, along with prolonged action duration.

Is Tadalafil Suitable for All Men with Erectile Dysfunction?

The response to tadalafil can vary from person to person. It is important to remember that consulting a doctor before taking any erectile dysfunction medication is extremely important because your history and health conditions will be considered by the specialist.

Although it is the first treatment strategy for erectile dysfunction, there are other options if the medication does not have the desired effect.

Can Someone Taking the Medication Still Fail?

Tadalafil is usually effective when there is sexual stimulation, so it is necessary for the medication to work.

It’s also important to reinforce that the medication is not a guarantee that the erection will occur automatically.

In some cases, occasional failure in the medication’s response may occur due to momentary factors (stress, anxiety, fatigue, or relationship problems) or when there is an underlying cause that needs to be investigated.

Are There Contraindications?

Yes, there are some contraindications for using tadalafil. Here are the main ones:

Tadalafil should not be used by people taking nitrates to treat heart conditions, such as angina;
Severe heart conditions, such as heart failure or rhythm problems;
Blood pressure problems;
Liver or kidney problems;
Pre-existing medical conditions.

However, each case should be treated individually. Consult your doctor about pre-existing health conditions before starting treatment with tadalafil.

Side Effects

Among the main effects of tadalafil are headaches, facial flushing, indigestion, and blurred vision. However, specific adverse reactions can vary between patients.

Learn more about the medication’s side effects in the video:

Does Tadalafil Enlarge the Penis?

Tadalafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction and does not increase penis size. With erection, it may seem that the penis appears larger temporarily when erect due to increased blood flow.

However, there is no permanent increase in organ size.

Is Tadalafil Safe for Long-Term Use?

The safety of long-term tadalafil use has been studied in research. In general, it is considered safe for long-term use when used according to medical instructions.

However, as with any medication, side effects and concerns can occur.

It is important to inform your doctor of any side effects, especially if persistent.

Are There Dietary or Alcohol Restrictions When Taking the Medication?

When taking tadalafil, there are no specific dietary restrictions. However, in some cases, taking tadalafil with a heavier meal may slightly delay the onset of the medication’s action.

It is important to exercise caution, however, with excessive alcohol consumption, which can increase the risk of side effects from tadalafil, as well as rapid heartbeats or low blood pressure.

Alcohol can also temporarily reduce the ability to achieve an erection, interfering with the medication’s effects.

Can Tadalafil Be Taken Alongside Other Medications?

Combining tadalafil with other medications can, in some cases, be dangerous. Here are the main medications that can interact with it:

Nitrates;
Alpha-blockers;
HIV protease inhibitors;
Antifungals and antibiotics;
CYP3A4 inhibitors.

Did this text help you? If you still have questions about the use of tadalafil or want to receive more information about the treatment of erectile dysfunction, we are here to help. Do not hesitate to contact us and schedule a consultation at Clínica EMC for a personalized evaluation.

What is Tadalafil? Understand How the Medication Works and Its Side Effects