CIALIS 20 MG: All You Need to Know
Guía de Salud Masculina
Cialis (tadalafil) 20 mg is a medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Here are some key points about it:
1. Mechanism of action
Inhibition of PDE5:
- In the penis, sexual stimulation causes the release of nitric oxide (NO). NO activates an enzyme called guanylate cyclase, which increases the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP relaxes the smooth muscles in the penile arteries and corpus cavernosum, allowing blood to flow into the penis and causing an erection.
- Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) breaks down cGMP. Cialis inhibits PDE5, which results in increased levels of cGMP, thus facilitating and maintaining penile erection in response to sexual stimulation.
Usage
For erectile dysfunction:
- It is typically taken as needed, approximately 30 minutes to 12 hours before sexual activity. However, some men may find that it can be effective for up to 36 hours, which is why Cialis is sometimes informally referred to as the "weekend pill."
- The recommended starting dose for most patients is 10 mg, but a doctor may prescribe 20 mg if the 10 - mg dose is not effective enough.
For benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH):
- Cialis can also be used to treat the symptoms of BPH. In this case, it is usually taken once daily at a lower dose (e.g., 5 mg). The 20 - mg dose is not typically used for BPH treatment alone.
3. Precautions and side effects
Precautions:
- It should not be taken by men who are taking nitrates (such as nitroglycerin) for chest pain, as the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- Men with certain underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, liver or kidney problems, or low blood pressure, should use Cialis with caution and under medical supervision.
Side effects:
- Common side effects may include headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and nasal congestion. These side effects are usually mild and transient.
Cialis is a prescription - only medication, and it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.