Adcirca 20 mg Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Patient Guide

What is Adcirca 20 mg?

Adcirca 20 mg is a prescription tablet that contains the active ingredient tadalafil. It primarily treats pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and high blood pressure in the lungs’ arteries. This condition makes it harder for the heart to pump blood through the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, fatigue, and other symptoms.

How Does Adcirca Work?

Tadalafil, the active ingredient, belongs to a group of medicines known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. In the lungs, it helps to relax the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily. This reduces the pressure in the lungs and improves the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

What is it Used For?

• Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH): Improves exercise capacity and delays worsening of symptoms.
• Though the same ingredient (tadalafil) is also found in Cialis (used for erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia), Adcirca is specifically formulated and approved for PAH.

How to Take Adcirca

• The typical dose is 40 mg daily, as two 20 mg tablets once daily.
• It can be taken with or without food but should be taken simultaneously daily.
• Always follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Adcirca can cause side effects. Common ones include:

• Headache
• Muscle or back pain
• Indigestion or upset stomach
• Flushing (warmth or redness in the face)
• Nasal congestion

Serious side effects are rare but can include changes in vision, chest pain, or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Always report unusual or severe symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking Adcirca, let your doctor know if you:

• Have heart, liver, or kidney problems
• Are taking medications called nitrates (used for chest pain), as this combination can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure
• Have a history of eye problems
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding (its use in these cases is usually avoided unless necessary)

Storage and Handling

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Could you not use it past its expiration date?

Summary

FeatureDetails

Brand Name                      Adcirca

Active Ingredient            Tadalafil

Use                                         Pulmonary arterial hypertension

Dose                                      20 mg tablets (usually 2/day)

Common Side Effects: Headache, muscle pain, flushing

Class                                     PDE5 inhibitor