Can Over-exercising Cause Low Libido? | Q&A With Dr Lee [e0a013]
2025-07-30
Post Time: 2025-07-30
Tadalafil, often recognized by its brand name **Cialis**, is a medication primarily used to treat **erectile dysfunction (ED)**, also known as impotence. It belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. This means it works by helping to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, particularly to the penis, which is crucial for achieving and maintaining an erection. It is also used to treat the symptoms of **benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)**, an enlarged prostate, and sometimes for **pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)**. This article provides crucial information for individuals who are considering using tadalafil for the first time. ## Understanding How Tadalafil Works Tadalafil works by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme. Normally, PDE5 breaks down a chemical called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which causes the muscles in blood vessels to relax. By blocking PDE5, tadalafil allows cGMP to accumulate. This leads to the dilation of blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the penis and resulting in an erection during sexual stimulation. In BPH, tadalafil relaxes the smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder, helping to relieve symptoms such as difficulty urinating. In PAH, tadalafil widens the blood vessels in the lungs, reducing blood pressure. ### Key Differences From Other ED Medications | Feature | Tadalafil (Cialis) | Sildenafil (Viagra) | Vardenafil (Levitra) | | -------------- | -------------------- | ------------------- | ------------------- | | Duration | Up to 36 hours | 4-5 hours | 4-5 hours | | Onset | 30-60 minutes | 30-60 minutes | 30-60 minutes | | Food Impact | Minimal | Can delay onset | Can delay onset | | Daily Use | Available | Not recommended | Not recommended | | Primary Use | ED, BPH, PAH | ED | ED | ## Dosage and Administration for ED Tadalafil comes in various dosage forms, such as tablets that are taken orally, with or without food. For erectile dysfunction, it’s typically prescribed in doses ranging from **2.5 mg to 20 mg**. A first-time user might start with a lower dose, like 10 mg, as advised by their doctor. * **For on-demand use**: Take the tablet 30-60 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. Do not take more than one dose in a 24-hour period. * **For daily use**: A low dose (typically 2.5 mg or 5 mg) is taken at the same time each day, irrespective of planned sexual activity. The correct dosage and usage must be determined by a healthcare provider based on an individual's health status and response to the medication. ## Potential Side Effects Like all medications, tadalafil can cause side effects. Common side effects include: * **Headache** * **Flushing (redness of the face)** * **Nasal congestion** * **Indigestion or stomach upset** * **Muscle pain or back pain** More serious side effects, though rare, may include: * **Sudden vision changes or loss of vision** * **Sudden hearing decrease or loss** * **Prolonged erection (priapism) lasting more than 4 hours**. Seek immediate medical attention if this happens. * **Dizziness or lightheadedness** * **Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)** If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, seek immediate medical help. ## Important Precautions and Drug Interactions Before starting tadalafil, you must inform your doctor about your medical history, including any heart conditions, high or low blood pressure, liver or kidney problems, eye diseases (such as retinitis pigmentosa), and bleeding disorders. Tadalafil can interact with other medications, leading to adverse effects. Here are some critical interactions: * **Nitrates**: Tadalafil should not be taken with nitrate medications used to treat chest pain (angina) because the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. * **Alpha-blockers**: Medications for high blood pressure or prostate problems can cause symptomatic hypotension when used concurrently with tadalafil. * **Other PDE5 inhibitors**: Avoid taking other ED medications at the same time as tadalafil. * **Certain antifungal medications and antibiotics**: Some medications can increase tadalafil levels in the blood, increasing side effect risks. * **Grapefruit or grapefruit juice**: These can interfere with how the body processes tadalafil, potentially leading to side effects. Always provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive list of all the medications and supplements you take. ## When to Consult a Doctor It’s important to have a doctor's prescription before starting tadalafil. Self-medicating can be dangerous. Consult your doctor if you experience any of the following: * If you are unsure whether tadalafil is the right medication for you. * If you experience severe side effects. * If you don’t notice any improvement in your symptoms after taking tadalafil. * If you need clarification on dosage or administration guidelines. * If you have any underlying medical conditions that may be affected by tadalafil. Tadalafil can be an effective medication for erectile dysfunction, BPH, and PAH, but it's essential to use it under medical guidance to ensure safe and effective treatment. Always follow your doctor's advice, read the medication information leaflet thoroughly, and report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Watch and find out more in kaboom male enhancement retailer the are over the counter male enhancement pills safe following #throwback #DoctorOnCall webinar segment where Dr Lee shared about Men’s Health and covered this interesting viagra spain prescription topic about the relationship between over-exercising and low libido. #doctoroncall #docwebinar #doctoroncallwebinar #urodoc #urologist #urology #menshealth #manshealth #menhealth #healthsingapore #knowyourhealth #lowlibido #exercise #medicalchannelasia ===================================================== SUBSCRIBE NOW for more urological health tips and information! Follow us online! Facebook: Instagram: LinkedIn: Website: