Drug reference
tadalafil
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Genitourinary (Vasodilator)
Mechanism of action
ED: Inhibits PDE-5, increasing cGMP to allow smooth-muscle relaxation and inflow of blood into corpus cavernosum of the penis. PAH: Inhibits PDE-5, increasing cGMP to allow relaxation of pulmonary vascular smooth-muscle cells and vasodilation of pulmonary vasculature. Duration of action: ~36 hours.
Common side effects
- Nasopharyngitis
- Headache
- Myalgia
- Respiratory tract infection
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and exfoliative dermatitis Soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulators (eg, riociguat); concomitant use can cause hypotension Coadministration with nitrates
Known interactions (3)
- isosorbide dinitrate + tadalafil Contraindicated
- isosorbide mononitrate + tadalafil Contraindicated
- nitroglycerin + tadalafil Contraindicated
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is tadalafil?
tadalafil belongs to: Genitourinary.
How does tadalafil work?
ED: Inhibits PDE-5, increasing cGMP to allow smooth-muscle relaxation and inflow of blood into corpus cavernosum of the penis. PAH: Inhibits PDE-5, increasing cGMP to allow relaxation of pulmonary vascular smooth-muscle cells and vasodilation of pulmonary vasculature. Duration of action: ~36 hours.
What are the common side effects of tadalafil?
Nasopharyngitis, Headache, Myalgia, Respiratory tract infection
Which drugs interact with tadalafil?
isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, nitroglycerin
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