Interactions with Other Medications and Substances

Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and recreational drugs. This includes nitrates, either for chest pain or recreational use. Combining Cialis with nitrates can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Certain medications can affect how Cialis works, or Cialis can affect how other medications work. This includes alpha-blockers (used for high blood pressure or enlarged prostate), antifungals (like ketoconazole and itraconazole), HIV protease inhibitors (like ritonavir), and macrolide antibiotics (like erythromycin). Your doctor can help determine safe dosages and combinations.

Grapefruit juice can increase Cialis levels in your blood, potentially leading to side effects. Avoid grapefruit juice while taking Cialis.

Alcohol can intensify Cialis’s side effects, particularly dizziness and low blood pressure. Moderate alcohol consumption is advised. Excessive alcohol use should be avoided.

Medication Class Potential Interaction Action to Take
Nitrates Dangerous drop in blood pressure Avoid combining; inform your doctor immediately.
Alpha-blockers Increased risk of low blood pressure Doctor should adjust dosages.
Antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole) Increased Cialis levels Doctor may adjust Cialis dosage.
HIV Protease Inhibitors (ritonavir) Increased Cialis levels Doctor may adjust Cialis dosage.
Macrolide Antibiotics (erythromycin) Increased Cialis levels Doctor may adjust Cialis dosage.
Grapefruit Juice Increased Cialis levels Avoid consumption.
Alcohol Increased side effects Moderate alcohol consumption.

This information is not exhaustive. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice on potential drug interactions before starting Cialis or making changes to your medication regimen.