Cialis and finasteride treat BPH, but carry different side effect profiles. Choosing the right medication depends on your individual risk tolerance.
Cialis, a PDE5 inhibitor, commonly causes headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and muscle aches. These are usually mild and transient. More serious, though rare, side effects include vision changes and hearing loss. Discuss these possibilities with your doctor.
Finasteride, a 5α-reductase inhibitor, more frequently causes sexual side effects, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation disorders. These can persist even after stopping the medication. A smaller percentage of men experience gynecomastia (breast enlargement). It’s crucial to carefully weigh these risks against the benefits of BPH symptom relief.
| Headache | Common, usually mild | Less common |
| Flushing | Common | Uncommon |
| Nasal Congestion | Common | Uncommon |
| Muscle Aches | Common | Uncommon |
| Erectile Dysfunction | Rare, may paradoxically improve in some | Common |
| Decreased Libido | Uncommon | Common |
| Ejaculation Disorders | Uncommon | Common |
| Vision Changes | Rare, but potentially serious | Uncommon |
| Hearing Loss | Rare, but potentially serious | Uncommon |
| Gynecomastia | Rare | Relatively common |
Remember, this table provides a general overview. Individual experiences may vary. Open communication with your doctor is key to making an informed decision about your treatment.
