Doctor-prescribed erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra and Cialis are known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors treat erectile dysfunction (ED) by increasing blood flow to the penis.
Tadalafil is the generic name for Cialis and is commonly prescribed by doctors to treat the symptoms of ED. While it's in the same drug class as Viagra, Cialis works differently.
Men seeking a little spontaneity in the bedroom prefer Cialis because it comes in two different dosages.
Tadalafil (Cialis) comes at a daily dose of 2.5 or 5mg. It means that the medication is always in your system, and you're prepared for any sexual activity that might arise.
Quick FAQs
Cialis stops the cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase type 5 that breaks down the enzyme cyclic guanosine monophosphate. This allows for increased blood flow to the penis.
Yes, Cialis causes a decrease in blood pressure that's usually temporary and doesn't cause any health issues.
Cialis can make blood pressure too low in men with certain medical conditions, such as a recent heart attack or stroke, or when mixed with certain medications, such as alpha blockers or nitrates.
Cialis can also be taken at a higher dosage of 10 or 20 mg. It is taken 30 to 60 minutes before you engage in sex. The higher dose is effective for up to 36 hours, which is why it's often referred to as the 'weekend pill.'
While the drug is effective at addressing erectile dysfunction, does Cialis lower blood pressure?
Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, like Cialis, get their name because they stop the cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase type 5 that breaks down the enzyme cyclic guanosine monophosphate, which is responsible for relaxing the smooth or involuntary muscle.
By blocking PDE5, cGMP can relax smooth muscles, increase blood flow, and widen blood vessels. It's particularly true in the penis and lungs due to the high concentration of PDE5.
Pro Tip:VitaFLUX Nitric Oxide Booster helps to relax blood vessels and allow more blood flow through increased nitric oxide production.
So, it makes sense that Cialis increases blood flow to the penis, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection. But how does Cialis affect blood pressure?
Does Cialis Lower Blood Pressure?
According to research, all PDE5 inhibitors, including Cialis, work to open up blood vessels to help blood flow easier, which has the potential to lower blood pressure.
The decrease in blood pressure that tadalafil causes is usually temporary and likely won't cause other health issues.
Clinical studies have found that Cialis is safe for lowering blood pressure and treating symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Tadalafil also effectively lowers pulmonary blood pressure because the lungs have a high concentration of naturally occurring PDE5. Tadalafil is sometimes used to treat elevated pressure in the lungs, also known as pulmonary hypertension.
Tadalafil comes in four dosages - 2.5, 5, 10, and 20mg. Research shows that 20mg of Cialis can lower ambulatory blood pressure, even in men with hypertension. It was even concluded that a low dose tadalafil can improve blood pressure control.
Is Cialis good for high blood pressure?
Tadafil does lower blood pressure but doesn't lower it so much that it will have a meaningful impact if you struggle with high blood pressure.
People with uncontrolled blood pressure should avoid using Cialis or any other Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.
How much does cialis lower blood pressure?
Research has shown that Cialis can lower a man's blood pressure by 1.6 Hg in systolic blood pressure and 0.8 mm Hg when lying down, and 0.2 Hg in systolic blood pressure and 4.6 mm Hg when standing up.
People experience the adverse effects of a blood pressure drop when it's below 20 mm Hg.
Can Cialis make blood pressure too low?
One study finds that 5, 10, or 20mg of tadalafil is safe for healthy men to take once a day. Another study discovered that long-term and short-term use of oral daily 5mg tadalafil works safely and effectively.
By itself, Cialis doesn't drop blood pressure to dangerous lows in healthy adult males. However, some medical conditions and medications can increase the hypotensive effects.
Avoid Cialis if you have these conditions.
Erectile dysfunction is the most common reason why tadalafil is prescribed because it widens blood vessels and increases blood flow to the penis.
Conditions that temporarily lower blood pressure can put a person taking Cialis at risk for heart attacks or other heart-related health events. Tadalafil is not recommended if you have uncontrolled blood pressure or extreme heart fluctuations.
Cialis is not recommended for patients with certain medical conditions that include:
Cialis may not be suited for those that have other health issues.
liver problems
kidney issues
not healthy enough to engage in sexual activity
bleeding disorders
stomach ulcers
Peyronie’s disease
Priapism
If you have had a heart attack, don't resume taking tadalafil until your doctor has approved it. You can likely resume Cialis around the six-month mark after the heart event.
Always consult with your physician before taking Cialis to treat erectile dysfunction or high blood pressure.
Drugs that should not be taken with Cialis
Avoid taking tadalafil if you take alpha-blockers or nitrates (nitroglycerine) to treat angina. The Cialis and nitrate combo can cause a sudden and dangerous drop in blood pressure.
After discussing possible risks and side effects, your doctor may prescribe a low dose of tadalafil (2.5) if you take alpha-blockers.
Don't take Cialis if you are currently taking another Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, such as sildenafil (Viagra) or vardenafil. Combining two erectile dysfunction medications can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Cialis may interact with other doctor-prescribed medications such as:
Let your doctor know if you smoke, regularly drink alcohol, or use any drugs, because there may be a possible drug interaction.
Your healthcare professional will provide you with a complete list of medication interactions, including herbs, supplements, and other over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
How long does Cialis last in your system?
Whether you take Cialis daily or the 20mg on-demand tablet, the effects of tadalafil can last 36 to 72 hours. Factors such as age, genetics, and preexisting medical conditions influence how long Cialis works.
Your doctor may adjust the dosage to avoid side effects like rapidly dropping blood pressure.
According to medical professionals, the normal range for most people's blood pressure is a systolic pressure of less than 120 and a diastolic pressure of less than 80.
Blood pressure is not considered dangerously low until it's under 90/60 mm Hg. Be on the lookout for chest pain, dizziness, or nausea - especially during sex.
Other red flags that signal your blood pressure may be low include the following:
unusual thirst or dehydration
blurry vision
fatigue
fainting spell
difficulty breathing
mental fogginess
If you feel any of these symptoms, immediately seek medical attention. Low blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, or shock.
Takeaways
Cialis is a popular medication doctors prescribe for men struggling with ED. Cialis can also lower blood pressure temporarily and is only dangerous for men with medical conditions such as a recent heart attack or stroke.
Some medications that can interact with Tadalafil can lead to a significant blood pressure drop. Don't take Cialis if you're currently on another Type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor or blood pressure medications.
Supplements that contain L-arginine naturally change L-arginine to nitric oxide, which helps widen blood vessels and strengthen erections. L-arginine may be a safer alternative to Cialis if you’re unable to take a (PDE5 inhibitor).
Discuss with your doctor the possible risk of taking tadalafil, especially if you have certain medical conditions or take specific medications.
Our team has over a decade of experience in the sexual wellness field and are experts in sexual dysfunctions, like premature ejaculation. We help couples and individuals better understand treatment options available for different types of sexual needs and educate the public on all things related to intimacy. All of our authored content is medically reviewed for accuracy and reliability.
Sources:
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