Indicated for: erectile dysfunction; pulmonary arterial hypertension; benign prostatic hyperplasia
Substance: tadalafil (PDE5 inhibitor)
ATC: G04BE08 (Genito urinary system and sex hormones | Urologicals | Drugs used in erectile dysfunction)
Tadalafil is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. It is a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which helps relax blood vessels and increase blood flow to specific areas of the body.
For erectile dysfunction, tadalafil enhances the erectile response when there is sexual stimulation. Unlike other similar medications, tadalafil’s effects can last up to 36 hours, earning it the nickname 'the weekend pill'.
For benign prostatic hyperplasia, tadalafil helps alleviate urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating or frequent urination by relaxing the muscles of the prostate and bladder.
In pulmonary arterial hypertension, tadalafil lowers the pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs, improving exercise capacity.
Tadalafil is generally well-tolerated but may cause side effects such as headaches, indigestion, muscle pain, or facial flushing. It is contraindicated with nitrates, as it can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure.