Important Info about Tadalafil
Important Safety Information for Tadalafil:
What is the approved use of tadalafil?
Tadalafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It works by improving blood flow, helping you achieve and maintain an erection during sexual arousal.
Who should not use tadalafil?
Do not take tadalafil if:
- You are using medications called nitric oxide donors, like nitrates or nitrites, as tadalafil may increase the blood pressure-lowering effects of these medications.
- You are allergic to tadalafil or any of its ingredients.
- You are taking guanylate cyclase (GC) stimulators, such as riociguat, as combining these medications can lower blood pressure too much.
How should I take tadalafil?
As-needed use: Take it about 30 minutes before sexual activity.
- Daily use: Take it once daily at the same time every day, regardless of when you have sexual activity.
- Limit alcohol to fewer than 5 drinks to avoid side effects like dizziness or low blood pressure.
- Never take more than one dose of tadalafil within 24 hours or combine it with other ED medications.
Do not take tadalafil more than once within 24 hours or combine it with other ED medications. Avoid consuming more than five alcoholic drinks when using tadalafil, as this may increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or fainting.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using tadalafil?
It’s important to share your full medical history and any medications or supplements you’re currently taking. Tadalafil may interact with:
- Nitrates and alpha-blockers: Can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure.
- CYP3A4 inhibitors: Medications like ritonavir, ketoconazole, or erythromycin may raise tadalafil levels in the blood, leading to more severe side effects.
- Alcohol: Drinking heavily can amplify side effects such as dizziness or lightheadedness.
Additionally, let your doctor know if you have or have had:
- Heart conditions that make sexual activity unsafe.
- Chest pain treated with nitroglycerin.
- Kidney or liver disease, which may require dose adjustments.
- Prolonged or painful erections (priapism).
- Low or high blood pressure, or a history of fainting.
- Vision issues like retinitis pigmentosa or sudden vision loss.
- Bleeding disorders, ulcers, or recent strokes or heart attacks.
Providing incomplete or inaccurate information may lead to complications or harm.
What are the most serious side effects of tadalafil?
While rare, serious side effects can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Heart-related symptoms: Stop activity and call for help if you have chest pain during sexual activity.
- Prolonged erections: An erection lasting more than 4 hours can damage the penis and requires urgent care.
- Vision loss: Sudden loss of sight in one or both eyes could indicate a serious condition like NAION.
- Hearing changes: Sudden hearing loss, often accompanied by ringing in the ears, may require prompt medical attention.
If you are taking medications that lower blood pressure, monitor yourself for dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting when starting tadalafil.
What are the most common side effects?
The most frequently reported side effects of tadalafil include:
- Headache
- Muscle or back pain
- Indigestion
- Flushing
- Nasal congestion
- Pain in the limbs
These are generally mild and temporary. If they persist or worsen, contact your doctor.
Additional safety information
Tadalafil does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use appropriate protection to practice safe sex. If you experience side effects or have concerns, contact your doctor promptly.
Reporting side effects
To report side effects in the Philippines, contact the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through their Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Reporting System or call +63 2-8809-5596.
For full prescribing information and additional details, visit the Philippine FDA website.
