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Tadalafil and Sildenafil Troches: An Overview for Patients
Tadalafil and Sildenafil Troches: An Overview for Patients
Updated over a week ago

Introduction

If you've been prescribed Tadalafil or Sildenafil Troches by your healthcare provider, it's important to understand how these medications work and how to use them correctly. These troches are used for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) in men and certain conditions in women, like sexual arousal disorders.

What Are Tadalafil and Sildenafil?

Tadalafil and Sildenafil are phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which are a class of drugs primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. They work by relaxing the blood vessels in your penis, allowing more blood to flow into the area, which aids in achieving an erection when sexually aroused.

Tadalafil is also the active ingredient in Cialis, while Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra.

What are Troches?

Troches, also known as lozenges or pastilles, are small, flavored medicinal tablets that dissolve in your mouth and are absorbed through the mucous membranes. This means the active ingredients get into your system faster than if they were taken in a pill form that had to go through your stomach.

How To Use Troches

Typically, you place the troche in your mouth, either between your cheek and gum or under your tongue, and allow it to dissolve completely. Do not chew or swallow the troche. It should take between 15 to 30 minutes to dissolve.

These troches are often taken before sexual activity, but the exact time can vary. Tadalafil, for example, may be taken up to 36 hours before sexual activity, while Sildenafil is usually taken about one hour before.

It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s directions precisely. They will provide instructions based on your specific health conditions and the results you are hoping to achieve.

Side Effects

Like any medication, Tadalafil and Sildenafil troches can have side effects. Common ones may include headaches, flushing, upset stomach, abnormal vision, stuffy or runny nose, back pain, muscle pain, nausea, dizziness, or rash.

If you experience an erection that lasts longer than four hours, or a sudden decrease or loss of vision or hearing, seek immediate medical help.

Also, Tadalafil and Sildenafil can interact with other medications, so be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking.

Precautions

While these medications are generally safe for most men, they should not be used by individuals who are taking nitrate drugs for chest pain or heart problems. This combination can lead to a sudden and serious decrease in blood pressure.

Also, if you have heart disease or have had a recent heart attack or stroke, your healthcare provider will likely recommend avoiding these medications. Similarly, men with uncontrolled high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, or severe liver disease should not take these medications without discussing potential risks with their healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Tadalafil and Sildenafil Troches can be highly effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, offering a faster onset of action than traditional oral tablets. However, as with any medication, it's important to use them correctly and to be aware of potential side effects and precautions. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about these medications.

Remember, these medications do not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Practice "safe sex" such as using latex condoms. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more details.

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