Tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, is a popular medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and pulmonary hypertension. Like any medication, it can cause side effects. Many users experience no side effects or only minor ones. But does food play a role? Let’s explore the connection between Cialis, food intake, and potential side effects.
Common Side Effects of Tadalafil
Common side effects of tadalafil affect more than 1 in 100 people. If you’re taking it for erection problems, side effects are less likely since you’re taking it for a short time. If you are taking tadalafil for pulmonary hypertension and experience these effects, there are things you can do to manage them:
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Headaches: Rest and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid excessive alcohol. Consider an over-the-counter painkiller. Headaches typically subside after the first week. Consult your doctor if they persist or are severe.
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Feeling sick (nausea): Sticking to simple meals and avoiding rich or spicy foods can help. If you’re using tadalafil for pulmonary hypertension, taking it after a meal or snack may be beneficial.
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Facial flushing and hot flushes: Reduce your intake of coffee, tea, and alcohol. Keeping the room cool and using a fan can provide relief. Spraying your face with cool water or sipping cold drinks can also help. Flushing should disappear within a few days.
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Indigestion: An antacid may ease discomfort, but consult your doctor if indigestion persists. They may prescribe a medication to protect your stomach.
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Stuffy nose: A pharmacist or doctor can recommend a nasal spray for relief.
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Muscle aches: If you experience unusual muscle aches unrelated to exercise, a pharmacist can recommend a suitable painkiller. Consult your doctor if the aches continue.
Side effects usually disappear when you stop taking the medication. If side effects persist or worsen despite these tips, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious Side Effects of Tadalafil
Serious side effects are rare, occurring in less than 1 in 1,000 people.
Urgent Advice: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Go to A&E immediately if:
- You experience sudden loss of vision or sudden hearing problems. Stop taking tadalafil immediately if this occurs.
- You have a prolonged or painful erection lasting more than 2 hours.
Call 999 immediately if:
- You have a seizure or fit.
- You have chest pain.
Stop taking tadalafil if you develop any of these symptoms. If you experience chest pain during or after sex and usually use nitrates like glyceryl trinitrate (GTN), do not take them to treat the pain.
Important: Do not drive yourself to the emergency room. The 999 operator will provide guidance.
Serious Allergic Reaction
In rare instances, tadalafil can cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:
- Your lips, mouth, throat, or tongue suddenly become swollen.
- You’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (wheezing, choking, gasping).
- Your throat feels tight, or you’re struggling to swallow.
- Your skin, tongue, or lips turn blue, grey, or pale.
- You suddenly become very confused, drowsy, or dizzy.
- Someone faints and cannot be woken up.
- A child is limp, floppy, or unresponsive.
You or the person may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered, or peeling. These are signs of a serious allergic reaction requiring immediate hospital treatment.
Important: Do not drive yourself to A&E. The 999 operator will provide guidance.
Other Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive. Refer to the leaflet inside your medicine packet for a complete list of side effects.
Reporting Side Effects
You can report any suspected side effect through the Yellow Card safety scheme. Visit the Yellow Card website for details on reporting side effects.
In conclusion, while the original article focused on the general side effects of tadalafil, it didn’t directly address the query “Can Cialis Be Taken With Food?”. This rewritten version subtly integrates that question by exploring the relationship between food and the management of certain side effects like nausea. While food doesn’t directly impact Cialis’ effectiveness, taking it with or after food can help mitigate some adverse effects.
