Cialis is one of the most widely recommended medications for Erectile Dysfunction. It differs from other ED medications, such as Viagra and Levitra.
While other ED medicines are taken before sexual activity, Cialis can be taken as needed or as a daily medicine.
Also, Cialis can last up to 36 hours while other ED medications only last for a few hours.
But although it has several advantages, it also has certain disadvantages. It may not be appropriate for people who take certain medications or have certain medical conditions.
Does Cialis lower blood pressure? Can people on blood pressure medication take Cialis? This article looks at the link between Cialis and blood pressure.
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The link between Cialis and blood pressure
Source: Getty_imagesPeople who take Cialis might experience a mild decrease in blood pressure. Cialis contains the active ingredient Tadalafil, a Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor.
PDE5 inhibitors block the enzyme PDE5, which breaks down cGMP, a chemical that relaxes smooth muscles.
The inhibition of PDE5 allows cGMP to dilate blood vessels and enhance blood flow in the penis. This helps produce an erection during sexual stimulation.
Cialis can increase blood flow in the penis, but it can also increase blood flow in other body arts. Thus, it can affect blood pressure.
Does Cialis lower blood pressure
Cialis lowers blood pressure in the penis to allow the muscles to dilate and increase blood flow.
The vasodilating effects of Cialis in the penis may also lead to a general drop in blood pressure.
The drop in blood pressure is mild and temporary in most patients and won’t likely lead to serious health problems.
Most people experience symptoms when they undergo a sudden blood pressure decrease of 20 mm hg.
Clinical trials found that Cialis only lowers blood pressure by 0.8 mm Hg (lying down) and 4.6 mm Hg (standing).
Yet, Tadalafil can cause a significant decrease in pulmonary blood pressure. It is the pressure of the blood flowing in the lungs.
As the lungs have a high concentration of PDE5, Tadalafil can help lower pulmonary blood pressure.
Due to this, the medicine is also prescribed to patients with Pulmonary Hypertension.
Systemic blood pressure is the force of the blood moving through your blood vessels to the body. Pulmonary blood pressure is the force of the blood moving through the lungs.
Tadalafil can help treat high pulmonary blood pressure. It is not the standard choice for treating high systemic blood pressure.
Effects of Cialis on people with low blood pressure
As discussed, Cialis can cause a slight decrease in blood pressure. It does not affect most healthy men as blood pressure drops are minimal and temporary.
But it may be dangerous for people with clinically low or uncontrolled blood pressure.
A sudden drop in blood pressure followed by an increase might lead to cardiovascular issues. It may also result in a heart attack.
People with low or uncontrolled blood pressure who have ED should consult a doctor about their treatment options. It may be unsafe for them to take Cialis or other PDE5 inhibitors.
People with high blood pressure may take Cialis if their condition is controlled by medication.
Can you take Cialis with blood pressure medication
Source: Getty_images_proIt is usually safe to take Cialis and blood pressure medication together if your condition is under control.
Combining Cialis with beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or diuretics should not risk your health.
There is a slight possibility of experiencing a dip in blood pressure. But you can manage this risk by starting with a low dose and slowly increasing the dose as needed.
You should only adjust your dose with a doctor’s prescription. Your physician may ask you to record your blood pressure readings after taking a pill.
You should avoid using Cialis if you take alpha-blockers or nitrates. Combining nitrates with Tadalafil can result in dangerously low blood pressure.
If you take alpha-blockers, your doctor may prescribe the lowest possible dose of Cialis.
Combining alpha-blockers with Cialis can result in a sudden reduction of blood pressure. You should only combine the two medicines if your physician permits it.
Side effects of Cialis on blood pressure
As mentioned earlier, Cialis can lower blood pressure and potentially lead to a risk of Hypotension.
Aside from the above, the medication has a few other side effects associated with blood pressure. Some of the common side effects include:
- A slight drop in blood pressure level
- Headaches
- Flushing of the face, ears, and neck
- Blurred or changing vision
- Stuffy nose
- Nosebleeds
Cialis may also have severe but rare side effects like Priapism and Dyspepsia.
Since Tadalafil acts as a vasodilator, it can reduce blood pressure. But it won’t cause a significant impact on your levels if you have normal blood pressure and don’t take nitrates.
Dyspepsia: It refers to a discomfort in your abdomen or Indigestion.
Does Cialis lower blood pressure — the outlook
While Cialis has the potential to lower blood pressure, it is not a concerning issue for healthy men.
Yet, certain health conditions and medications can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of Cialis. The hypotensive effects can be dangerous in some cases.
It is essential to inform your physician of your current prescriptions and health history before starting Cialis.
After analyzing your health, your doctor may be able to provide the best ED treatment for you.
If you’re currently taking both Lisinopril and Cialis or are considering taking both medications, we recommend reading our recommended resources on the interaction between the two drugs.
It’s important to understand how these medications may interact and affect your health, so be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before taking both drugs simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Cialis lower your blood pressure?
Cialis causes a slight decrease in blood pressure. The clinical trials of Cialis 20 mg showed a blood pressure decrease of 0.2/4.6 mmHg while standing and 1.6/0.8 mmHg while lying down.
There was no report of a significant drop in blood pressure.
Can I take Cialis for high blood pressure?
Cialis is an Erectile Dysfunction medication. Though it may help lower blood pressure, it is not the appropriate medication for high blood pressure.
Getting a prescription for more suitable high-blood pressure medications may be best.
How does Cialis affect blood pressure?
Cialis causes a mild reduction in blood pressure. The drop in blood pressure is minimal and does not affect most men.
People who take nitrates for blood pressure or Angina may experience exaggerated effects on taking Cialis.
Which is safer: Viagra or Cialis?
Cialis and Viagra are both safe medications if taken as prescribed. Before using either ED medication, consult your doctor about your symptoms and overall health.
