Adcirca (Tadalafil)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Adcirca Used For?
Adcirca is a medication that contains tadalafil and is prescribed for adults to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to improve blood flow in the lungs, enhancing the ability to engage in physical activities.
How It Works
Adcirca works by relaxing the blood vessels in the lungs, which helps to improve blood flow.
Good to know: Adcirca is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Adcirca
It is important to take Adcirca exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dose is two 20 mg tablets taken at the same time once a day. If you have liver or kidney issues, your doctor may recommend taking only one tablet.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double up on doses.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- chest pain
- headache
- migraine
- flushing
- sweating
- nausea
- back pain
- muscle pain
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- prolonged or painful erection
- loss of vision in one or both eyes
- sudden decrease or loss of hearing
- seizures
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before using Adcirca.
Who Should Not Take Adcirca
Do not use Adcirca if you are allergic to tadalafil or any of its ingredients, are taking nitrates, or have certain heart conditions.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of heart problems, liver or kidney issues, blood vessel disorders, or any deformities of the penis with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as it is unclear if Adcirca is safe in these situations.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Adcirca, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit while taking Adcirca, as it may affect how the medication works.
- nitrates (e.g., glyceryl trinitrate)
- guanylate cyclase stimulators (e.g., riociguat)
- bosentan
- sildenafil
- some antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin, erythromycin, clarithromycin)
- seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine)
- fungal infection treatments (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, saquinavir)
- medications for high blood pressure
- alpha-blockers
- other erectile dysfunction treatments
- grapefruit juice
- large amounts of alcohol
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol or driving while taking Adcirca.
Alcohol
Drinking large amounts of alcohol while on Adcirca may lead to dizziness.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Adcirca can cause dizziness and affect vision, so be careful when driving or using machinery.
Storage
Store Adcirca below 25°C in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Adcirca typically starts to work within a few hours, but individual responses may vary.
Yes, Adcirca can be taken with or without food.
No, Adcirca is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Adcirca, as they will provide guidance on how to discontinue use safely.
Be cautious with alcohol, as large amounts may cause dizziness when combined with Adcirca.
Elderly patients should discuss their health conditions with their doctor to ensure Adcirca is safe for them.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember but do not double up on doses.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.