How to Use Cialis

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The drug Cialis can be used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) or an enlarged prostate. To purchase this drug, you'll need a prescription from your doctor. [1] Make sure you take the correct dosage so it works when you need it. Stay safe on Cialis by avoiding substances that could interact with this drug. If you experience any negative side effects or the drug is not working for you, see your doctor for guidance.

Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Taking Cialis

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  1. You can use Cialis on a daily basis at a lower dosage. Cialis Daily helps to prevent erectile dysfunction 24 hours a day. This may be a good option if you plan to have sex at least 2-3 times a week. [2]
    • Cialis Daily will come in doses of 2.5 to 5 mg.
  2. This type is best if you do not plan to have sex regularly, but want to have the medication on hand. Cialis Regular will have a higher dosage and is not designed for daily or regular use.
    • Cialis As Needed will be prescribed in doses of 5 to 20 mg.
  3. Consume Cialis orally with water. Swallow the pill whole. Do not chew on it or break it apart. [3]
    • If you are using Cialis Daily, you will need to take 1 dose at the same time every day.
    • Taking more than 1 dose every 24 hours can cause heart issues and other problems.
  4. To prevent stomach problems, have a small meal before or after you take Cialis. Avoid eating a large meal or a lot of food, as this can slow down the effects of the drug.
  5. The medication will be effective for up to 36 hours. [4]
    • If you are taking Cialis Daily, you do not need to take it before you plan to have sex. Just make sure you take it at the same time every day.
  6. Taking Cialis does not mean you are guaranteed to get an erection. You will still need to be sexually stimulated to be able to get an erection and maintain it. Communicate with your partner and interact with them after you take Cialis to help the medication work. [5]
Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: Do I Have Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?

Every guy struggles to “get it up” every now and then. It’s normal to occasionally have trouble performing in the bedroom. Erectile Dysfunction, though, is when your difficulty with getting an erection or staying hard becomes a regular occurrence. To find out if you may be experiencing symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction, take our quiz. Remember that this wikiHow quiz is informational, and your results should not be considered a medical diagnosis.
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Part 2
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Staying Safe on Cialis

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  1. Nitrate medications used to treat chest pain or heart problems can interact negatively with Cialis. Do not take Cialis if you are taking medication for hypertension (high blood pressure). [6]
    • You should also avoid taking Cialis if you are taking medication for liver or kidney issues.
    • Your doctor should discuss the medications you are taking and confirm Cialis is safe for you before prescribing it to you.
  2. Having a lot of alcohol while on Cialis can cause side effects and affect the potency of the drug. Limit yourself to 1-2 alcoholic drinks when you take Cialis. [7]
  3. Grapefruit juice and products containing grapefruit can interact negatively with Cialis, causing side effects. [8]
  4. You may experience headaches, nausea, upset stomach, or become flushed when you take Cialis. You may also develop muscle pain, especially in your back, arms, or legs. This side effects should fade away as your body get used to the medication. [9]
    • If your side effects do not go away or they become worse, stop taking Cialis and see your doctor right away.
Part 3
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Seeing Your Doctor

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  1. You should also see your doctor if you feel nauseous, dizzy, or like you are going to pass out. These are all possible symptoms of a heart problem caused by Cialis. [10]
    • You may also experience ringing in your ears, temporary hearing loss, and vision issues.
  2. An erection that lasts longer than 4 hours can cause damage to your penis. Head to your doctor’s office or the nearest medical center right away so the issue can be addressed. [11]
  3. Your doctor may suggest you try taking less Cialis on a regular basis or spreading out your dosage so you only take it occasionally.
    • They may also ask you about how you are taking Cialis to ensure you are using it correctly so you are not at risk of any issues.
  4. If Cialis is putting you at risk of developing heart problems or a heart attack, your doctor may suggest that you try another medication. They may recommend another erectile dysfunction medication you can try to address this issue. [12]

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      References

      1. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604008.html
      2. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-cialis-tadalafil
      3. ↑ https://www.drugs.com/cialis.html
      4. ↑ https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/cialis
      5. ↑ https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/7430/pil
      6. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-cialis-tadalafil
      7. ↑ https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/7430/pil
      8. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604008.html
      9. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/should-you-take-a-daily-erectile-dysfunction-pill
      1. ↑ https://www.drugs.com/cialis.html
      2. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604008.html
      3. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604008.html

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Before you can use Cialis, you'll need to visit your doctor for a prescription, as well as instructions on how to use it. In most cases, you'll be advised to take one entire pill with water, before or after food. If you’re taking Cialis daily, try to take it at the same time every day. While you’re on Cialis, avoid drinking more than 1-2 alcoholic drinks, which can cause side effects and affect the potency of the drug. If you feel light-headed, nauseous, have chest pain during sex, ringing ears, or an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours, speak to your doctor so they can help you adjust your dosage. For more tips from our Medical co-author, including how to minimize side effects while using Cialis, read on!

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