Cialis (tadalafil) works by increasing blood flow to certain areas of the body, particularly the penis in men. It belongs to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Here’s how it works and its common uses:

Mechanism of Action:

1. Relaxation of Blood Vessels: Cialis inhibits the enzyme PDE5, which normally breaks down a substance called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the body.
2. Increased cGMP Levels: By inhibiting PDE5, Cialis allows cGMP to accumulate in the smooth muscle cells of the penis’ blood vessels. This accumulation leads to relaxation of the blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow into the penis during sexual stimulation.
3. Erection Formation: The increased blood flow to the penis results in an erection that is sufficient for sexual activity.

Uses:

1. Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Cialis is primarily prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction, which is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

2. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Cialis is also used to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is an enlarged prostate gland. It helps relax the smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder, which can improve urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating or frequent urination.

Dosage and Usage:

• For Erectile Dysfunction: Cialis can be taken as needed, usually at least 30 minutes before sexual activity. The typical starting dose is 10mg, but this can be adjusted based on effectiveness and tolerance.

• For BPH: Cialis is often prescribed at a lower dose (5mg) daily, regardless of sexual activity, to help alleviate urinary symptoms associated with BPH.

Important Considerations:

• Effectiveness: Cialis enhances the natural process of arousal, meaning sexual stimulation is still necessary for an erection to occur.

• Side Effects: Common side effects include headache, indigestion, muscle aches, flushing, and stuffy or runny nose. Serious side effects such as sudden vision loss or hearing loss are rare but require immediate medical attention.

• Interactions: Cialis should not be taken with certain medications, especially nitrates used for chest pain, as it can cause a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and usage of Cialis. If you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms while taking Cialis, consult your healthcare provider promptly.