Always inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies, before starting Cialis. This includes nitrates (used for chest pain), alpha-blockers (for high blood pressure or prostate problems), and antifungal medications like ketoconazole or itraconazole. These drugs can interact with Cialis and lead to dangerously low blood pressure.
Certain medications can affect how your body processes Cialis, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing side effects. For instance, rifampin (an antibiotic) and some HIV medications can speed up Cialis’s breakdown, reducing its duration. Conversely, medications like erythromycin or cimetidine can slow down its metabolism, potentially prolonging its effects.
Grapefruit juice can also interact with Cialis. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it can increase Cialis’s concentration in your bloodstream, leading to heightened side effects.
| Nitrates | Nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate | Dangerous drop in blood pressure |
| Alpha-blockers | Terazosin, Doxazosin | Increased risk of low blood pressure |
| Antifungal medications | Ketoconazole, Itraconazole | Increased Cialis levels in blood |
| HIV Protease Inhibitors | Ritonavir, Indinavir | Increased Cialis levels in blood |
| Macrolide Antibiotics | Erythromycin, Clarithromycin | Increased Cialis levels in blood |
This information is not exhaustive. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list of potential interactions and personalized advice. They can help you determine if Cialis is safe for you, considering your specific health condition and other medications you are taking. Remember to always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and administration.
