Indications 

Adcirca is a prescription medicine for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH, high blood pressure in the lungs) to improve exercise ability.  

Categorized as a phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor (PDE-5i), Adcirca widens blood vessels by increasing a natural substance in the bloodstream, effectively treating PAH. This eases blood flow through the lungs, improving oxygen transportation throughout the body. 

As a result, the heart and lungs are relieved of excessive exertion, which enhances physical activity. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Adcirca, and with each prescription refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any questions or clarifications, consult your doctor or pharmacist without hesitation. 

Adcirca’s dosage depends on the patient’s medical condition, treatment response, and concomitant medications. 

Typically, Adcirca is prescribed at a daily dose of 40mg (two 20mg tablets), to be taken once a day with or without food. Dividing the 40mg dose throughout the day is discouraged. 

Adcirca tablets should be swallowed whole, not cut, crushed, or chewed. 

For optimal results, take Adcirca regularly around the same time daily, exactly as prescribed.  Refrain from altering the dose or discontinuing its use without consulting your healthcare provider. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Adcirca. Notify your physician promptly if any of them persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness 
• Lightheadedness 
• Headache 
• Muscle pain 
• Flushing 
• Nausea 
• Stuffy nose 
• Stomach upset 

 Serious Side Effects 

• Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION, a sudden decrease in vision) 
• Ringing in the ears  
• Priapism or prolonged erection lasting for 4 hours  
• Trouble breathing 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the serious symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Adcirca rarely causes severe allergic reactions. However, seek prompt medical assistance if you notice the following: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not encompass all potential side effects of Adcirca. Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any unlisted effects. 

Cautions 

Before taking Adcirca, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to tadalafil, any medications, or any ingredients present in Adcirca tablets. 

To ensure Adcirca is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Heart problems such as chest pain/angina, heart failure, heart attack, or life-threatening irregular heartbeat in the past 6 months 
• Stroke in the past 6 months 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• High or low blood pressure 
• Dehydration 
• Penis conditions such as fibrosis/scarring, angulation, Peyronie’s disease 
• History of prolonged or painful erection (priapism) 
• Conditions that may increase the risk of priapism, such as multiple myeloma, sickle cell anemia, leukemia 
• Eye problems such as retinitis pigmentosa 
• NAION 
• Bleeding disorders 
• Active stomach ulcers 
• Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease 

Many drugs may interact with Adcirca, including riociguat and vericiguat. To mitigate the risk of drug interactions, inform your healthcare provider about all your current medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. 

Using Adcirca in conjunction with nitrates can significantly reduce blood pressure, resulting in dizziness, fainting, and potentially heart attack or stroke. Avoid using any of the following medications alongside Adcirca or within 48 hours of its last dose:  

• Nitrates like nitroglycerin and isosorbide for chest pain/angina 
• Recreational drugs named “poppers” containing amyl or butyl nitrite 

Several medications can impact the elimination of Adcirca from your system, which may alter its efficacy. Examples of such medicines are: 

• Azole antifungals like ketoconazole and itraconazole 
• Macrolide antibiotics like erythromycin and clarithromycin 
• HIV protease inhibitors such as lopinavir 
• Rifampin 
• Ritonavir  
• Others 

Co-administration of Adcirca with any other product containing tadalafil or similar medications used for treating erectile dysfunction-ED or pulmonary hypertension (like sildenafil or vardenafil) should be avoided. 

Consult with your doctor regarding the safe consumption of alcoholic beverages while undergoing treatment with Adcirca. Drinking more than five glasses of wine or shots of whiskey may increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects like dizziness, headache, fast heartbeat, and low blood pressure. 

Adcirca should only be taken during pregnancy if it is necessary. Consult with your physician regarding the advantages and potential risks. 

It is uncertain whether tadalafil can pass into breast milk. Seek medical advice before nursing an infant.