Tadalafil (Cialis): treating Erectile Dysfunction safely
tadalafil is primarily used for the following purposes:
1. Treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED)
Mechanism for action:
-Tadalafil inhibits the type 5 phosphodiesterase enzyme (PDE-5). This enzyme is responsible for the degradation of nitrogen monoxide (no)-dependent on cyclic monophosphate guanosin (cGMP) in penile cavernous tissue. By inhibiting PDE-5, tadalafil increases the concentration of cGMP, which results in a relaxation of smooth muscles in the penis and allows increased blood flow to cavernous tissue, facilitating erection.
Effectiveness:
-it has been shown to be effective in numerous clinical studies to improve the ability of men with SD to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity.
2. Treatment of pulmonary hypertension (HP)
Mechanism of action in HP:
-in pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil works by relaxing the muscles of the pulmonary arteries. By increasing vasodilation in the pulmonary tract, pulmonary blood pressure is reduced, improving cardiac function and exercise capacity of patients.
Efficacy in HP:
-it has been used as part of the combined treatment for patients with pulmonary hypertension, either idiopathic or associated with other diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis.
It is important to note that tadalafil should be prescribed by a doctor and consideration should be given to possible side effects and contraindications, such as interactions with other medicines, particularly those containing nitrates (as the combination can lead to a drastic drop in blood pressure).