Cialis (Tadalafil) is a medicine used in treating erectile dysfunction. This is the third pill that was approved by the FDA for such purpose. Tadalafil is marketed under the name Cialis. A biotechnology company called ICOS formulated it. The marketing of this drug is not done by ICOS, though. A company named Eli Lily is selling it.

Nature and use of the drug

Cialis is also known as the weekend pill. This is due to the effective duration of this drug in the body. Its effect lasts up to a long 36 hours after the drug was taken. When compared to the two other branded impotence pills, Viagra and Levitra, Cialis is known to be the fastest acting. The effects of this drug can be noted within 30 minutes after taking it. But unlike Viagra, it hasn't been proven yet that this medicine can cause multiple erections in the 36 hours period that it is in the body.

How this medicine works

Cialis was discovered in much the same way that Viagra was discovered. When ICOS Company was testing a drug called IC351 for its effect in the health of the heart, the male participants started to have an erection. It was found to have insignificant effect to the purpose where it was being designed to work. Because of this, ICOS Company applied for an FDA approval to have it marketed for erectile dysfunction temporary treatment. The name IC351 was also changed, thus the name now is Cialis.

Cialis also work in much the same way as the first two erectile dysfunction pills. They are all inhibitors of the enzyme called PDE5, the one responsible for causing the dysfunction. When this enzyme is inhibited, there will be the smoothing of the penile muscle that dilates the arteries. This in turn will cause a fast inflow of blood to the penile area, causing an erection.

Dosage and administration

Men should take Cialis exactly as the doctor has prescribed. Follow the dosage suggested to you and make adjustments if you feel that your current dosage is either insufficient or over.

These almond shaped tablets are yellow. They are film coated and they come in different dosages. You can buy them at 5 mg, 10 mg or 20 mg tablets. You should not take the pill for more than a single dose per day. Ideally, allow 36 hours to pass before taking the next dose because this pill is working in the body in a 36 hours period.

What to expect -- side effects

Cialis, like Viagra and Levitra, is very effective in treating male impotence. Like its older brothers, Cialis has a couple of noted side effects to users.

Some of the side effects of the impotence pills are similar. They only differ on the expected duration and the speed on how they can successfully stimulate penile erection. The side effects listed for these products are basically the same. It would be wise for an individual to consult a physician before starting on this product. Serious injuries might occur if it is not suitable for a person of if an overdose happen.

Precautions to take

If you have a heart ailment, this medicine is not for you. Since hormones such as dopamine are released, it might cause sudden changes in your heart rate (whether fast or slow) and may endanger your heart while this medicine is in your system.