- The FDA approved Cialis in 2003. It was introduced as "The Weekend Pill" because it lasts for up to 36 hours; in contrast, Viagra and Levitra last up to five hours. It is the third medication for erectile dysfunction approved by the FDA. Eli Lilly and Company produces Cialis.
- One reason why Cialis is different from Viagra or Levitra is the length of time it stays in the system. Cialis lasts 17 to 36 hours. There is also a daily pill in a lower dosage, for men who are sexually active more than once a week. You can take Cialis with or without food, so planning around eating is not an issue. High-fat foods do not have to be avoided because food doesn't affect the absorption of the medication. Cialis is not meant to be taken more than once in a twenty-four hour period.
- Cialis is a PDE-5 inhibitor. It inhibits the enzyme PDE-5 that attacks the chemical cGMP. The chemical cGMP relaxes the artery walls in the penis, so blood can flow. The flowing of the blood through the penis causes erections. The cGMP chemicals are released when a man is aroused.
- Cialis is not for men who have suffered from a heart attack, stroke, or irregular heartbeat within the last six months. It is not meant for anyone who has uncontrolled high blood pressure or anyone taking medication with nitrates. Patients should not drink excessive amounts of alcohol while taking Cialis.
-
Cialis may cause headaches, upset stomach, dizziness, backache, or muscle ache. There have been rare cases of vision and hearing loss reported, but there is no data proven that Cialis was the cause. Cialis does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
Cialis offers a free trial of three 36-hour pills or a 30-day supply of daily pills. Your doctor must prescribe the medication.
