Tadacip: Uses, dosage, side effects, warnings & patient reviews

What is Tadacip (Tadalafil)?

Tadacip is a prescription medication used to treat two common conditions in men: erectile dysfunction (ED) and the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate. Its active ingredient is tadalafil, the same compound found in the brand-name drug Cialis.

Tadacip belongs to the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor class. It works by relaxing smooth muscles and dilating blood vessels, which improves blood flow to specific areas of the body. For ED, this enhances the ability to achieve and maintain an erection with sexual stimulation. For BPH, it relaxes muscles in the prostate and bladder, improving urine flow and reducing symptoms.

As a high-quality generic version, Tadacip offers the same therapeutic benefits as the brand-name drug but at a lower cost. This aligns with the principle that generic tadalafil is bioequivalent and equally effective, making effective treatment more accessible. Tadacip is manufactured by Cipla, a reputable global pharmaceutical company.

How to Take Tadacip

Correct administration is essential for Tadacip’s effectiveness and safety. The dosing regimen differs significantly based on whether it is used for ED, BPH, or both. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.

For Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

You can take Tadacip for ED in two different ways, depending on your needs and your doctor’s recommendation:

• As-needed (on-demand): The typical dose is Tadacip 20 mg, taken at least 30 minutes before anticipated sexual activity. Its effects can last up to 36 hours, allowing for greater spontaneity. This is its most distinctive feature compared to shorter-acting medications like sildenafil. You can learn more about this unique duration in our guide on how long tadalafil stays in your system.
• Daily Use: A lower dose (usually 5 mg) is taken once daily, regardless of the timing of sexual activity. This regimen is suitable for men who anticipate sexual activity more than twice a week, as it provides continuous readiness. For help choosing between these options, see our article on daily vs. as-needed tadalafil.

For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

The standard dose for treating BPH symptoms is 5 mg taken once daily. Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours.

Important Administration Notes

• Food and Alcohol: Unlike some other ED medications, Tadacip’s effectiveness is not significantly delayed by food. Moderate alcohol consumption is acceptable, but excess alcohol can increase side effects like dizziness and lower blood pressure. For detailed advice, see tips for maximum effectiveness.
• Sexual Stimulation Required (for ED): The medication aids the physical response but does not cause an automatic erection. Sexual arousal is necessary.
• For BPH: You may need to take Tadacip daily for several weeks to notice the full improvement in urinary symptoms.

Side Effects of Tadacip

Like all medications, Tadacip can cause side effects. Many are mild and related to its mechanism of widening blood vessels. For a general overview of what to expect from ED medications, you can refer to a urologist’s guide to normal side effects.

What is Tadacip Used For?

Tadacip contains tadalafil, which is FDA-approved for two primary medical uses in men. It is important to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider to determine if Tadacip is appropriate for your condition.

1. Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Tadacip is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It is effective for ED caused by various physical and psychological factors and is often a preferred choice for men who desire spontaneity due to its long duration of action. It is also a common choice for men with diabetes-related ED.

2. Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Tadacip is also approved to treat the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause bothersome urinary symptoms. These include:

• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
• Urgency to urinate

For a broader understanding of BPH treatments, see a urologist’s simple guide to BPH medications.

For men suffering from both ED and BPH, Tadacip offers the advantage of treating both conditions with a single medication, which can be particularly relevant for older men experiencing both issues.

Important Safety Concerns and Considerations

Cardiovascular Risk

Sexual activity and PDE5 inhibitors like Tadacip increase cardiac output and can lower blood pressure. Therefore, Tadacip is contraindicated for men for whom sexual activity is inadvisable due to significant underlying heart conditions. This includes patients with:

• Unstable angina or heart failure
• Recent history of stroke, heart attack, or life-threatening arrhythmia
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure

A thorough cardiovascular assessment is mandatory before starting treatment. Men with known heart disease should only use Tadacip if their doctor determines it is safe.

Prolonged Erection (Priapism) and Anatomical Issues

Priapism is a rare but serious condition that can occur with any PDE5 inhibitor. An erection lasting more than 4 hours requires immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent tissue damage and future ED. Men with anatomical deformities of the penis (e.g., Peyronie’s disease, angulation) or conditions that predispose to priapism (e.g., sickle cell anemia, leukemia) should use Tadacip with extreme caution.

Vision and Hearing Loss

Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), causing sudden vision loss, has been reported rarely in men taking PDE5 inhibitors. The risk may be higher in those with pre-existing eye problems. Sudden hearing loss has also been reported. Any sudden change in vision or hearing requires immediate discontinuation of Tadacip and medical attention.

Interaction with Alpha-Blockers

Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin, doxazosin) are commonly prescribed for BPH or high blood pressure. Both Tadacip and alpha-blockers lower blood pressure. Taking them together can lead to symptomatic hypotension (dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting). If combined, Tadacip should be initiated at the lowest dose (2.5 mg for daily use, not exceeding 5 mg for as-needed use), and the alpha-blocker should be at a stable dose.

Critical Warnings for Tadacip Use

Absolute Contraindication with Nitrates

Tadacip must never be taken by individuals using any form of organic nitrate or nitric oxide donor. This includes prescription nitrates (nitroglycerin, isosorbide) for angina, as well as recreational drugs like “poppers” (amyl or butyl nitrite). The combination causes a severe and potentially fatal drop in blood pressure.

Cardiovascular Clearance

Before prescribing Tadacip, a doctor must evaluate your cardiovascular health. Men with serious heart conditions for whom sexual activity is not recommended should not take this medication. Stress from sexual activity can increase heart rate and blood pressure.

Effects on the Eye

Tadalafil has a mild effect on PDE6, an enzyme found in the retina. This may be linked to rare cases of NAION and temporary color vision changes (a blue-green tinge). Patients with retinitis pigmentosa (a rare genetic eye disease) should use Tadacip with caution due to a lack of safety data in this population.

Kidney or Liver Impairment

If you have severe kidney disease or severe liver cirrhosis, your body may clear tadalafil more slowly. For the as-needed 20 mg dose, your doctor may recommend a longer interval between doses (e.g., 48-72 hours). For daily dosing, a lower dose (2.5 mg) is typically the maximum recommended.

Grapefruit Juice

Grapefruit juice may increase the concentration of tadalafil in your blood, potentially raising the risk and severity of side effects. It is advisable to avoid consuming large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Tadacip.

Tadacip Dosage Information

The correct dosage must be determined by a healthcare provider based on the condition being treated, individual health, kidney/liver function, and other medications. Never adjust your dose without consulting your doctor.

Important Administration Notes

• Maximum Frequency: For the as-needed 20 mg dose, do not exceed one tablet in a 24-hour period. For daily dosing, strictly adhere to the once-daily schedule.
• Food and Alcohol: Can be taken with or without food. Moderate alcohol is acceptable; heavy use is discouraged.
• Missed Daily Dose: If you miss a dose of your daily regimen, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the regular time. Do not double the dose.

Drug Interactions with Tadacip

Tadacip can interact with many medications, sometimes dangerously. You must provide your doctor with a complete list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take.

Additional Information

Storage and Handling

Store Tadacip tablets at room temperature (between 15°C and 30°C or 59°F and 86°F), in a tightly closed container, away from light, excess heat, and moisture. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.

Manufacturer and Cost

Tadacip is manufactured by Cipla Ltd., a leading Indian pharmaceutical company with a global reputation. As a generic medication, Tadacip offers a significant cost advantage over the brand-name Cialis, making long-term treatment for ED or BPH more financially sustainable. This is a key example of how generic drugs improve accessibility to essential medicines.

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience a side effect, especially a serious one, report it to your prescribing doctor. You are also encouraged to report adverse drug events to your national health authority (e.g., the FDA in the United States). This helps regulatory agencies monitor medication safety and update information for the benefit of all patients.

References and Medical Sources

The information on this page is compiled from reputable medical sources, prescribing information, and clinical guidelines.

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Cialis (tadalafil) Prescribing Information. [Updated 2023]. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021368s20s21lbl.pdf
2. MedlinePlus. Tadalafil. U.S. National Library of Medicine; [Updated 2024]. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604008.html
3. American Urological Association (AUA). Erectile Dysfunction: AUA Guideline (2018). https://www.auanet.org/guidelines/guidelines/erectile-dysfunction-(ed)-guideline
4. Drugs.com. Tadalafil Professional Monograph. Drugs.com; [Updated 2024]. https://www.drugs.com/monograph/tadalafil.html

Disclaimer: The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not self-medicate based on the information presented on this site. Always consult with a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health.