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Cialis: A Pharmacy Solution for Erectile Dysfunction

Mohommed Essop-Adam
Reviewed by Mohommed Essop-AdamReviewed on 30.10.2023 | 4 minutes read
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Erectile dysfunction, a condition that affects many men, can now be managed with greater convenience and accessibility through Cialis, which contains the medication tadalafil at a strength of 10mg. This medication is designed to help men with erectile dysfunction achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused.

Evolution of Accessibility

A significant milestone was reached in March 2023 when the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reclassified Cialis from a prescription-only medicine (POM) to a pharmacy (P) medicine. This change in classification means that men no longer require a prescription to obtain Cialis; it is readily available over the counter in pharmacies. To ensure the medication is suitable for them, men must complete a medical questionnaire and engage in a discussion with their pharmacist. Moreover, the medication can also be purchased online from select pharmacy retailers following the completion of an online medical questionnaire and a phone consultation with a pharmacist if needed. These changes offer a balance between facilitating convenient access to Cialis and ensuring the safe distribution of the medication.

The Mechanism of Action

Tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, belongs to the same class of medications as sildenafil, commonly known as Viagra. Both of these drugs are classified as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Their primary function is to assist men in achieving and sustaining an erection when they are sexually aroused. During sexual arousal, chemical messengers are released in the tissues of the penis. One of these key chemical messengers is cyclic GMP, which plays a pivotal role. Cyclic GMP relaxes and widens blood vessels in the penis, a process known as vasodilation. This dilation allows more blood to flow into the blood vessels, ultimately leading to an erection.

PDE5 is an enzyme responsible for breaking down cyclic GMP. PDE5 inhibitors like tadalafil work by inhibiting this enzyme, preventing the breakdown of cyclic GMP. This, in turn, ensures that blood vessels in the penis remain widened for a longer duration, facilitating men with erectile dysfunction to achieve and sustain an erection. It's essential to note that PDE5 inhibitors are only effective when a man is sexually aroused, as this is when cyclic GMP is released.

Proper Usage

Cialis is available in tablet form and is recommended to be taken at least 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity. This allows the medication sufficient time to take effect. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended dosage and not consume more than one tablet in a day. Continuous daily use of Cialis is not advisable. Many men find that the medication works effectively after the first or second attempt, but for those who have experienced erectile dysfunction for an extended period, it may take several attempts for the medication to show its full effectiveness.

After sexual intercourse, the erection will naturally subside. However, the medication remains active in the body, enabling men to achieve an erection when sexually aroused for up to an impressive 36 hours following ingestion. It is advisable to refrain from consuming grapefruit juice while using Cialis , as it can impact the medication's effectiveness. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided, as it can affect the ability to obtain an erection.

Eligibility and Precautions

Cialis is exclusively intended for adult men aged 18 and above who are affected by erectile dysfunction, a condition that hinders their ability to achieve a satisfactory erection for sexual activity. This medication is not suitable for women, children, or men without erectile dysfunction.

Before purchasing Cialis, individuals are required to complete a medical questionnaire. This questionnaire includes inquiries about any medical conditions, medications, and allergies. If, based on this information, Cialis is deemed unsuitable, the individual may be referred to their general practitioner (GP).

Reasons for being ineligible to purchase Cialis without a prescription may include having heart problems, liver or kidney issues, a deformed penis, an inherited eye disease (like retinitis pigmentosa), or experiencing vision loss due to optic nerve damage.

Potential Side Effects

As with any medication, certain individuals may experience side effects while using Cialis. Common side effects associated with tadalafil can include facial flushing, nasal congestion, indigestion, as well as pain such as headaches, back pain, and muscle aches.

In conclusion, Cialis' reclassification as a non-prescription medication marks a significant stride towards enhanced accessibility and convenience for men dealing with erectile dysfunction. Understanding its mechanism of action, proper usage, eligibility criteria, and potential side effects empowers individuals to make informed decisions regarding their erectile health.

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Mohommed Essop-Adam
Reviewed by Mohommed Essop-Adam
Reviewed on 30.10.2023
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