Cialis 20mg relieves BPH symptoms by relaxing the smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck. This relaxation reduces urinary obstruction, improving urinary flow and reducing symptoms like frequent urination, urgency, and nighttime awakenings. The drug achieves this through selective inhibition of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5).
PDE5 Inhibition and Muscle Relaxation
PDE5 is an enzyme that breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a crucial molecule for smooth muscle relaxation. By inhibiting PDE5, Cialis increases cGMP levels. Higher cGMP levels lead to sustained relaxation of the smooth muscle cells within the prostate and bladder neck. This effect is specific to the areas experiencing obstruction, promoting targeted symptom relief.
Individual Response and Dosage
It’s important to remember that individual responses to Cialis vary. While 20mg is a common starting dose, your doctor might adjust this based on your response and any side effects. Open communication with your physician is critical for optimizing treatment.
Comparison to Other BPH Treatments
| Alpha-blockers (e. g., Tamsulosin) | Relax smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder neck via a different mechanism. | Different mechanism; may have different side effect profiles. |
| Finasteride/Dutasteride (5-alpha reductase inhibitors) | Reduce prostate size by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). | Works by shrinking the prostate, not directly relaxing muscles. |
Monitoring and Side Effects
Regular monitoring by your doctor allows for early detection and management of potential side effects, which can include headaches, flushing, and nasal congestion. These are usually mild and transient, but reporting them to your physician is important. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for safe and effective use.
