The FDA recently approved Cialis (See-Al-Iss) for the treatment of impotence or erectile dysfunction. Cialis (generic name tadenafil) is the third drug in its class to be approved for this use, the other two being Viagra and Levitra. All three of these drugs work in a similar way to increase blood flow to the penis, which helps men get and keep all erection satisfactory for sexual activity. Once the sexual activity is completed, blood flow to the penis decreases, and the erec¬tion goes away. Some forni of sexual stimulation is also needed for an erection to occur with these drugs. The big difference between Cialis and Viagra or Levitra is that it stays in the body for a longer period of time and studies have shown that its effects call last for up to 36 hours after taking the drug compared to 4 to 5 hours for Viagra and Levitra. Because of its long duration of action, Cialis has been referred to in Europe as the "le weekender" with a Friday-night dose lasting until Sunday. Cialis call also be taken with a high-fat meal, which call be problem with Viagra. Like Viagra and Levitra, Cialis should not be taken with nitrate medications (e.g., Imour, ISMO, nitroglycerin, Isordil, Sorbitrate, etc.). It should also be avoided by men who take alpha¬blockers (other than Flomax), which are prescribed for high blood pressure or prostate problems (e.g., Hytrin, Prazosin, Minipress, Cardura, Doxazosin, Uroxatral, etc.). These drugs call cause the blood pressure to go too low, causing dizziness or fainting. Some other drugs can also interact with Cialis, so be sure your doctor and pharmacist know all the medications that you are taking. Cialis should not be used more than once a day, and it is not recommended for patients with low blood pressure, uncontrolled high blood pressure, angina, liver problems, retinal eye problems, or those who have had a stroke or heart attack in the past 6 months. In addition, those patients who have been advised by their doctor to avoid sexual activity, due to cardiovascular Conditions, should not take the drug. The most common side effects of Cialis reported during drug testing were headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle ache, flushing and stuffy or runny nose. Cialis is taken orally before expected sexual activity, but not more than once daily.
