Can I Take Erectile Dysfunction Medication If I Have High Blood Pressure
Thanks to television, commercials, and other media, you may already be familiar with the correlation between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Because of this, many men have questions about whether they can safely take ED medication with an underlying condition, such as high blood pressure. When starting any new prescription, including medications for ED, it is important to discuss it with your doctor.
The expert team at Kasraeian Urology, including renowned board-certified urologists Drs. Ahmad and Ali Kasraeian, provides advanced solutions for ED in Jacksonville, FL to help men regain a more enjoyable, reliable, and fulfilling sex life. Learn more about ED and hypertension here, including what treatment options you may have that are both safe and effective.
Interaction With Blood Pressure Medications
Tadalafil can interact with nitrates and nitrites used to treat hypertension, angina and other heart conditions, causing abnormally low blood pressure that can lead to loss of consciousness, heart attack and even cardiac arrest t.
If you take nitrates like nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate or amyl nitrate to treat hypertension or angina , you should not take Cialis.
In fact, you should not use any PDE5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil , vardenafil or avanafil .
All of these drugs interact with nitrates to cause a significant drop in blood pressure. In addition to nitrates used to treat cardiovascular conditions, ED medications can also interact with some recreational drugs that contain nitrates, such as amyl nitrate poppers.
Do not use Cialis if you use any nitrate medications. If you have heart disease, hypertension or any other cardiovascular condition, inform your healthcare provider before using Cialis or any other medication to treat erectile dysfunction.
Does Blood Pressure Medicine Cause Ed
Some high blood pressure medications can contribute to problems with getting erections. However, stopping high blood pressure medications is not a good idea. High blood pressure itself is a major cause of erectile dysfunction in men. Treatment of high blood pressure is a very important component of treatment for erection problems in men.
If you had good erections, and immediately after starting a new blood pressure medication you noticed that erections are not as good as they used to be, it is worth talking to your doctor about changing your high blood pressure medications to see if it will make a difference.
However, if you had poor erections prior to taking medications for high blood pressure, even if a new blood pressure medication has a mildly negative effect on your erections it is unlikely to matter if you treated with Cialis for erectile dysfunction. Usually, Cialis treatment will help you overcome both your pre-existing problems and the problems that are induced by medications for high blood pressure.
It is also important to realize that your erection problems are much more likely to be caused by high blood pressure than the medications that are used for treating high blood pressure. Worsening of erection problems is a sign of progressive damage to your blood vessels by high blood pressure.
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What If I Cant Take Viagra
If you are not a candidate for phosphodiesterase inhibitors because of another prescription or an underlying condition with risk factors, you still have options. During your initial consultation for erectile dysfunction in Jacksonville, FL, Dr. Kasraeian will discuss all of your available ED treatment options, which may include:
How does shockwave therapy for ED work?
Kasraeian Urology is proud to offer shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction without the use of drugs. A handheld probe is used to send low-intensity shockwaves directly into the penis. The energy from shockwave therapy stimulates new blood vessel growth to help improve erectile dysfunction. Each shockwave therapy session takes around 20 minutes and many patients notice improvement after a few treatments.
Is Tadalafil Effective In Lowering Regular Blood Pressure
There are various opinions regarding this question.
Before getting into the detail, lets emphasize that tadalafil lowers PH and PAH .
According to a study, tadalafil resulted in a mild decrease in regular blood pressure in healthy subjects.
The study concluded that this mild decrease in high blood pressure is not clinically relevant or significant. As such, the study had a negative reflection on tadalafil lowering regular blood pressure.
In contrast, according to another study, it was concluded that in patients with uncontrolled hypertension on multiple agents the addition of tadalafil 20 mg lowered mean 26-h blood pressure.
This reflected a positive effect on tadalafils capacity to lower blood pressure.
So, its clear that while studies contrast the effectiveness of tadalafil for high blood pressure, the takeaway is it can have at least a mild effect on lowering blood pressure.
However, this effect may be insignificant compared to the effect of tadalafil in treating PH or PAH.
So, using tadalafil for lowering regular blood pressure may seem ineffective and unreliable, especially if you have a serious record of high blood pressure, relying on tadalafil is not recommended.
So, as we always recommend that you consult with your healthcare provider on whether or not tadalafil can help you with lowering blood pressure.
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Side Effects Requiring Immediate Medical Attention
Along with its needed effects, tadalafil may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking tadalafil:
Less common
- Arm, back, or jaw pain
- blurred vision
- chest pain, discomfort, tightness, or heaviness
- chills
- pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck
- pounding in the ears
- Painful or prolonged erection of the penis
Incidence not known
- blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
- cough
- fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse
- headache, severe and throbbing
- inability to move the arms, legs, or facial muscles
- inability to speak
- loss of heat from the body
- numbness or tingling of the face, hands, or feet
- red skin lesions, often with a purple center
- red, irritated eyes
- redness or soreness of the eyes
- scaly skin
- sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
- stomach pain
- swelling of the feet or lower legs
Lifestyle Changes To Treat Ed And High Blood Pressure
Along with medical treatment, you may also be able to improve your ED and lower your blood pressure by making some of the same lifestyle changes. For example, smoking tobacco and high alcohol consumption both increase the risk of ED and high blood pressure, so quitting or cutting down can be a real boost to your health and wellbeing.
Other lifestyle changes you could make to achieve healthy blood pressure levels include:
- Eating a low-salt diet with plenty of fruit and veg
- Taking regular exercise
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What Other Drugs Could Interact With This Medication
There may be an interaction between tadalafil and any of the following:
- abiraterone
- tamsulosin
- telaprevir
If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:
- stop taking one of the medications,
- change one of the medications to another,
- change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
- leave everything as is.
An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.
Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter , and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 2022. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/Cialis
Cialis Side Effects And How To Avoid Them
Cialis side effects | Blood pressure | How long do side effects last? | Warnings | Interactions | How to avoid side effects
Cialis is a brand-name prescription medication that treats erectile dysfunction, or the signs and symptoms of an enlarged prostate . Classified as a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, tadalafil relaxes smooth muscles and arteries in the penis.
Cialis also allows more blood to flow to the penis for a longer period to maintain an erection. Cialis also requires sexual stimulation in order to work for erectile dysfunction.
Cialis helps to relieve the lower urinary tract symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is thought to work for BPH by relaxing muscles in the lower urinary tract.
As can be expected, medicines that affect blood vessels may have unwanted side effects and potentially risky drug interactions. People considering Cialis should be familiar with these side effects and potential interactions as well as any medical conditions that may render the medicine unsuitable.
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How Effective Is Cialis For Treatment Of Ed In Men With Diabetes
Erectile dysfunction and diabetes often occur together, especially in older men. Tadalafil daily treatment is safe and effective in men with diabetes. Studies show that in men with diabetes, once-daily dosing of Cialis can help improve the quality of erections and overall satisfaction with sexual function. Furthermore, studies show that tadalafil is effective irrespective of the severity of diabetes.Cialis is well-tolerated in diabetic men and does not alter blood sugar levels, but can significantly enhance erectile function.
What Can Be The Side Effects Of Taking Cialis Daily
These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Cialis daily in clinical trials:
- heartburn*
- muscle pain
For a list of side effects reported by people taking Cialis in clinical trials, including people who took the drug daily, see the Mild side effects of Cialis and Serious side effects of Cialis sections above. You may also view the drugs prescribing information.
* For more information about this side effect, see Side effect specifics below.
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How Many Years Can You Take Cialis
Medically reviewed by Kristin Hall, FNP
Cialis is one of the most effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, and it has a lot of users because it has been proven safe and effective. But exactly how long is that safe part good for? It may not be as long as you think.
Were not sounding any alarms here, but the fact is that while there are extensive studies showing Cialis is safe for a couple of years, research hasnt been done on the question of decades of usage.
If youre dealing with possible or diagnosed erectile dysfunction, Cialis might offer a long-term or even permanent solution for what ails you and your member, but you should still educate yourself on the details before beginning a life-long regimen of medication.
With that in mind, weve broken down ED, how Cialis can treat it, and what the science says about using Cialis over the long haul.
Cialis And Alcohol Effects
Having just a glass of wine or other drink is unlikely to affect Cialis or cause any health risks. But if you take Cialis and drink excessively, you may be setting yourself up for some problems.
In particular, drinking too much alcohol while you take Cialis can lead to orthostatic hypotension. This can cause a headache, dizziness, and fainting, which can cause fractures or other injuries. Hypotension may also make your heart beat at a faster rate. In some cases, this can lead to severe heart problems.
This effect can occur because Cialis and alcohol both act as vasodilators. Vasodilators are substances that lower your blood pressure by relaxing the walls of your blood vessels, which allow the blood vessels to open wider.
Orthostatic hypotension can be even more likely with Cialis than with some other erectile dysfunction drugs. This may be because Cialis stays in your system longer than many other ED drugs.
Moderate drinking is fewer than three alcoholic drinks per day. The amount in an alcoholic drink varies according to the type of alcohol. For example, one alcoholic drink could be:
- 12 ounces of beer
- 5 ounces of wine
- 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor, such as gin, vodka, whisky, rum, or tequila
Consuming five or more drinks at a time while taking Cialis has been linked with orthostatic hypotension. That amount is a bit more than what is considered moderate drinking.
If you notice symptoms such as dizziness or headaches, stop drinking and tell your doctor.
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Avoiding Cialis Side Effects
While theres no way to completely avoid Cialis side effects, here are some tips that can help decrease your risk for side effects:
- Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of the medications you take. This includes vitamins, herbs, and supplements. Your doctor and pharmacist can check to see if any of the medications you take could interact with Cialis.
- Tell your doctor about your complete medical history, including any medical conditions you have. This helps your doctor determine if Cialis is safe for you to take.
- Avoid or minimize drinking alcohol while taking Cialis. Alcohol use can increase your risk for certain side effects.
- Take Cialis exactly as your doctor prescribes. You should not change your dosage of Cialis without first talking with your doctor.
For more information on lowering your risk for side effects of Cialis, see the Side effect specifics section below.
Cialis may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drugs side effects and their answers.
Erectile Dysfunction And High Blood Pressure: How Are They Linked
An erection is the result of a chain of chemical reactions in your body that begins when you become sexually aroused. Enzymes transmit signals to the blood vessels in your penis, causing them to relax and expand so that blood can flow in. As a result, your penis becomes firm and ready for sexual activity.
When you have high blood pressure, however, this puts a strain on your circulatory system. Over time, the lining of your blood vessels can be damaged and your arteries can harden and become narrow, restricting blood flow. This then prevents enough blood entering your penis to achieve a hard, lasting erection.
Research has found that men suffering from ED are 38% more likely to have high blood pressure, so theres a good chance that tackling your high blood pressure could help your erections too.
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Only Purchase Cialis From A Licensed Pharmacist
Purchasing Cialis or other erectile dysfunction medications through alternative channels carries the risk of purchasing counterfeit or unsafe medications. Dose strengths may be wrong, raising the risk of ineffectiveness or side effects. Purchase Cialis by prescription only, and through a licensed pharmacy, such as your local pharmacy or your insurances mail order facility.
Does Cialis Increase The Size Of A Mans Penis
No. Cialis doesnt increase the size of a mans penis. However, the medication does increase blood flow to the area. So if the penis wasnt able to become fully erect before taking Cialis, it may appear larger after taking Cialis.
Although Cialis doesnt change the size of the penis, the drug can increase the ability to have an erection.
Cialis is approved to treat erectile dysfunction , symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia , or both of these conditions.
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Side Effects Not Requiring Immediate Medical Attention
Some side effects of tadalafil may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common
- stomach discomfort, upset, or pain
Less common
- burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, “pins and needles”, or tingling feelings
- burning, dry, or itching eyes
- burning feeling in the chest or stomach
- congestion
- dryness or soreness of the throat
- excessive eye discharge
- feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
- feeling of warmth, redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest
- fever
- lack or loss of strength
- loose stools
- pain in the arms or legs
- pain or burning in the throat
- redness, pain, swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid
- reduced sensitivity to touch
- swelling or puffiness of the eyes or face
- swollen joints
- tender, swollen glands in the neck
- tenderness in the stomach area
- trouble with sleeping
Applies to tadalafil: oral tablet
Take Cialis As Directed
Take the dose as prescribed. Read, understand, and follow the medication guide or patient instructions that come with the medicine. A pharmacist, doctor, or other healthcare professional can answer any questions or clear up any confusion. Above all, do not increase or decrease the dose without consulting your doctor. If effectiveness or side effects are a problem, talk to your healthcare provider about adjusting the dose.
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Alternative Treatments For Erectile Dysfunction
Before Viagra hit the market in 1998, there was no proven treatment for erectile dysfunction that men could take in pill form. Doctors were interested in yohimbe, an herb that increases heart rate and blood pressure. Some doctors prescribed it to their patients in combination with other treatments for erectile dysfunction. Even then it was not a recommended treatment and is still not today. Studies have not proven that it works.
Men with high blood pressure especially shouldn’t take either the prescription form or the herb. It can dangerously raise blood pressure.
Currently, no herb or supplements have been proven to help with erectile dysfunction. Herbs and supplements that some believe are helpful for erection problems include:
- Ginseng