Cialis (generic name: tadalafil) is a medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It belongs to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.
Tadalafil works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, which helps men achieve and maintain an erection. It does this by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow into the erectile tissues.
Aside from treating ED, tadalafil also has another brand name, Adcirca, which is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in both men and women. In this case, it helps to relax the blood vessels in the lungs, allowing blood to flow more easily.
Cialis, when taken as needed, can be effective for up to 36 hours, earning it the nickname "the weekend pill." There's also a lower-dose form of tadalafil, known as Cialis Daily, which is taken once a day to provide a lower, steady concentration of the drug in the body for continuous effectiveness.
It's important to note that Cialis/tadalafil should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider and should not be used without a prescription. Additionally, it's not recommended for everyone and can have interactions with other medications, so it's crucial to discuss any existing health conditions or medications with a doctor before using it.
