Glisen: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects
Understand Glisen (Tadalafil), a prescription treatment for erectile dysfunction. This guide covers its function, administration, and key safety information.
Glisen is a prescription medication whose active ingredient is Tadalafil. It is primarily used to manage erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition affecting the ability to achieve or maintain an erection. This medication is dispensed as an oral tablet and belongs to a class of drugs that work by affecting blood flow. Its purpose is to facilitate a natural physical response to sexual stimulation, not to increase sexual desire, and should be used under a doctor’s guidance.
What Glisen Is Used For
Glisen is prescribed for men experiencing erectile dysfunction, the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. The medication helps address the physiological component of achieving an erection by improving blood flow to the penis. It is a treatment for the symptoms, not a cure for the underlying causes of ED.
Beyond its primary use for ED, Glisen also treats the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary issues, such as a weak stream and a frequent need to urinate. By relaxing muscles in the prostate and bladder, the medication can alleviate these problems. In some cases, it is prescribed to men who have both ED and BPH.
How Glisen Works
Glisen’s therapeutic effect is based on its action as a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. PDE5 is a naturally occurring enzyme that breaks down a substance called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). The presence of cGMP allows the smooth muscles in penile arteries to relax and the blood vessels to widen.
When a man is sexually stimulated, the body releases nitric oxide in the penis, which triggers the production of cGMP. Glisen works by blocking the PDE5 enzyme from degrading cGMP too quickly. This allows cGMP to accumulate and remain active for longer, resulting in increased blood flow that makes it easier to achieve and maintain an erection. It is important to note that sexual stimulation is required for the medication to produce its effect.
Dosage and Administration
The dosage of Glisen is determined by a healthcare provider, tailored to the individual’s medical condition and response to treatment. For erectile dysfunction, there are two primary dosing strategies: as-needed use and once-daily use. A medical professional will help decide which dosing schedule is most appropriate based on factors like frequency of sexual activity.
For as-needed use, a common starting dose is 10 mg taken prior to anticipated sexual activity, and no more than once per day. The active ingredient, tadalafil, has a long duration of action that can last up to 36 hours. It is recommended to take the tablet at least 30 to 60 minutes before intercourse.
Alternatively, Glisen can be prescribed as a low-dose daily medication. The dosage for once-daily use is 5 mg, taken at approximately the same time each day without regard to the timing of sexual activity. This approach is often preferred for men who are sexually active more frequently. When used to treat BPH, or a combination of BPH and ED, the 5 mg daily dose is the standard regimen.
The medication is an oral tablet taken with a glass of water and can be consumed with or without food, as food does not significantly impact its absorption. Adhere to the prescribed dose and do not make adjustments without consulting a healthcare provider.
If a daily dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped. Taking more than one dose in a 24-hour period is not recommended.
Potential Side Effects
Like all medications, Glisen can cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. The most common adverse effects are mild to moderate and include headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, facial flushing, and a stuffy nose. These reactions often occur because the medication’s effect of widening blood vessels can happen elsewhere in the body.
While most side effects are not serious, some require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek emergency help for any of the following:
- A painful erection lasting for more than four hours (priapism)
- A sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Sudden hearing loss, sometimes accompanied by dizziness or ringing in the ears
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, hives, or difficulty breathing
Discussing any persistent or bothersome side effects with a healthcare provider is recommended to ensure the medication remains a safe treatment option.
Important Safety Information and Interactions
Before taking Glisen, it is necessary to provide a complete medical history to a doctor, as certain pre-existing conditions may increase risks. Caution is advised for individuals with a history of heart problems, including angina, heart attack, or irregular heartbeats. People with very high or low blood pressure, a history of stroke, or severe liver or kidney disease also need careful evaluation.
The most significant safety warning involves its interaction with nitrate medications, which are often prescribed for chest pain. Taking them with Glisen can cause a sudden and dangerous drop in blood pressure, so patients taking any form of nitrate must not use this medication.
Other medications can also interact with Glisen, altering its effectiveness or increasing side effects. These include alpha-blockers, certain antifungal medications, and some antibiotics. Disclosing all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to a healthcare provider is a fundamental step to ensure safe use.