The pharmaceutical industry is rapidly advancing.
Among the groundbreaking innovations and medications is Tadalafil, which has emerged as a significant contribution.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Tadalafil for treating numerous medical conditions.
This article provides an informative overview of Tadalafil, answering the questions “What is Tadalafil and how does it work and why is it prescribed?”
It will also shed light on the factors affecting its working.
What is Tadalafil
Tadalafil is a prescription drug that is specifically formulated to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
ED is an inability of men or Assigned Males at Birth (AMAB) to get and maintain a firm erection during sexual activity.
Additionally, Tadalafil has shown effectiveness in treating two other conditions: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH).
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) refers to the enlargement of the prostate gland, which can lead to urinary difficulties.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the lungs.
The pharmaceutical company, Eli Lilly, is the first manufacturer of Tadalafil.
It got FDA approval for treating ED and BPH in November 2003 and is sold by Eli Lilly under the brand name Cialis.
On the other hand, for managing PAH, Tadalafil got approval in May 2009. The United Therapeutics Corporation sells it under the brand name Adcirca for PAH.
How Tadalafil Works
Tadalafil is used to treat three medical conditions, i.e., Erectile Dysfunction, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension.
Let’s delve into the details of how Tadalafil works in addressing each of these conditions.
For treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Tadalafil treats Erectile Dysfunction, which is caused by impeded blood flow to the penis.
It belongs to a category of Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.
Tadalafil blocks the action of the PDE5 enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP).
cGMP is a molecule that helps relax the smooth muscles in blood vessels. This relaxation dilates the penile blood vessels and improves blood flow to the penis.
By inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, Cialis restores cGMP levels, which increases the penile blood flow to get and maintain a firm erection.
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For treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Source: Ogichobanov from Getty ImagesBPH is a condition that involves the enlargement of the prostate gland.
It causes urinary symptoms like slow urine flow, difficulty starting and stopping urine, etc.
Although Tadalafil does not address the root cause of BPH or reduce the size of the prostate gland, it provides symptomatic relief.
The exact mechanism of how Cialis treats BPH is not fully understood. But three reasons are believed to be the contributing factors. These include
- Relaxation of the bladder and prostate muscles using signals from Nitric Oxide (NO) and cGMP.
- Improvement of the function of RhoA/Rho-kinase (ROCK) and reduction of the overactivity of the autonomic nervous system.
- Exerting a direct anti-inflammatory effect by increasing the levels of cGMP.
For treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
Tadalafil is also used to treat Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). It is sold under the brand name Adcirca for treating this condition.
When there is high blood pressure in the lungs’ arteries, Tadalafil helps by dilating the pulmonary blood vessels.
Interestingly, the same enzyme, PDE5, that Tadalafil inhibits to improve erectile function is also found in the pulmonary arteries.
By inhibiting PDE5 in the pulmonary arteries, Adcirca helps maintain higher levels of cGMP.
This enables the dilation of blood vessels in the lungs, facilitating improved blood flow.
This, in turn, reduces the strain on the heart and relieves symptoms associated with PAH, like shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.
Factors affecting the working of Tadalafil
Several factors can influence the effectiveness and response to Tadalafil treatment.
These factors include individual metabolism, dosage, administration timing, use of concurrent medications, and psychological factors.
1. Health status
Each person’s body reacts differently to medications.
Factors such as age, underlying medical conditions, and metabolism can influence how effectively Tadalafil works.
2. Dosage and timing
The dosage and timing of Tadalafil administration play a crucial role in its effectiveness.
It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and instructions provided by a doctor.
Taking too little Cialis dose may not yield desired results, while taking too much may increase the risk of side effects.
Additionally, Tadalafil should be taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity, so timing the dose appropriately is essential for optimal efficacy.
3. Concurrent Medications
Certain medications, particularly Nitrates, Alpha-blockers, and some antifungal drugs, can interact with Tadalafil.
This can potentially reduce its effectiveness or cause adverse reactions.
4. Psychological Factors
Psychological factors, like stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, can impact sexual performance.
Tadalafil addresses only the physical aspects of Erectile Dysfunction. But it is important to address any underlying psychological factors that may contribute to the condition.
Seeking counseling or therapy can complement Tadalafil treatment and enhance overall effectiveness.
Conclusion
Tadalafil is a versatile medication that effectively treats Erectile Dysfunction (ED), Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), and Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH).
Its mechanism of action involves restoring the cGMP levels and improving blood flow in specific areas of the body.
However, individual factors like the timing of administration, metabolism, psychological factors, and medical interactions can impact the effectiveness of Tadalafil.
Consulting a doctor and following their instructions is crucial for maximizing the benefits of Tadalafil treatment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Tadalafil take to work?
Tadalafil starts working within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. This is because the body takes time to metabolize and absorb the medication. After absorption, medicine starts working once it reaches a certain concentration in the bloodstream.
Is Tadalafil addictive?
No, Tadalafil is not addictive. It does not cause physical dependency. It is a prescription medication that should be used as directed by a doctor.
Can I take Tadalafil every day?
Yes, FDA has approved a lower dose of Tadalafil for once-daily use. Depending on the prescribed dosage, it can be taken daily or on an as-needed basis. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the appropriate dosing schedule.
Can Tadalafil cure ED?
Tadalafil does not cure ED. It provides temporary relief by improving erectile function. The underlying causes of ED should be addressed for long-term management.
Can women take Tadalafil to treat female sexual dysfunction?
Tadalafil is not approved for use in women. Its effectiveness and safety profile have not been thoroughly studied in females. However, doctors may prescribe Tadalafil to treat Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD). This is known as the off-label use of Tadalafil in women.
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