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What is the pill L339 used for? A Comprehensive Guide to Tadalafil

3 min read

According to data from Drugs.com, the yellow, oval pill imprinted with L339 contains Tadalafil and is used to treat several medical conditions. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors and is primarily prescribed for erectile dysfunction (ED), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Quick Summary

The pill marked L339 is Tadalafil, prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension by relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow.

Key Points

  • L339 is Tadalafil: The yellow, oval pill L339 is Tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis.

  • Treats multiple conditions: It is used for erectile dysfunction (ED), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

  • Can have an extended effect: Tadalafil can last up to 36 hours for ED.

  • Works as a PDE5 inhibitor: It improves blood flow by blocking the PDE5 enzyme.

  • Administration varies by condition: Follow your doctor's instructions.

  • Avoid nitrates and excessive alcohol: These can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

  • Watch for serious side effects: Priapism, sudden vision or hearing loss require immediate medical attention.

In This Article

What is the L339 pill?

The L339 pill is a yellow, oval tablet containing Tadalafil, according to pill identifier databases. Tadalafil is also known by the brand names Cialis (for ED/BPH) and Adcirca (for PAH). It is a prescription-only medication classified as a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor. Always confirm pill identification with a healthcare provider.

The primary uses of the L339 pill

The active ingredient in the L339 pill, Tadalafil, treats conditions by improving blood flow or relaxing smooth muscles in specific body parts.

Tadalafil for Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Tadalafil helps men with ED achieve and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation by increasing blood flow to the penis. It works by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme. A key feature of Tadalafil is its duration of action, which can be extended compared to some other medications in its class.

Tadalafil for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

For men with an enlarged prostate, Tadalafil can alleviate symptoms like difficulty starting urination, a weak stream, and frequent or urgent urination, especially at night. It does this by relaxing smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder, improving urinary flow.

Tadalafil for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)

Under the brand name Adcirca, Tadalafil treats high blood pressure in the arteries leading to the lungs. It relaxes these blood vessels, lowering pressure, reducing heart strain, and improving exercise capacity.

How does the L339 pill work?

Tadalafil, a PDE5 inhibitor, works by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, which leads to increased levels of cGMP in smooth muscle cells. This causes blood vessels to relax and widen, increasing blood flow. This improved blood flow helps with erections during sexual stimulation, relaxes pulmonary blood vessels for PAH, and relaxes bladder and prostate smooth muscle for BPH.

Tadalafil (L339) Administration

Tadalafil is taken orally as a tablet. It can be taken with or without food, but tablets should be swallowed whole. The specific administration schedule and amount depend on the condition being treated.

Potential side effects of Tadalafil (L339)

Common side effects include headache, indigestion, back and muscle pain, flushing, and nasal congestion.

Seek immediate medical attention for serious side effects such as:

  • Priapism: An erection lasting over 4 hours.
  • Sudden vision loss: Potentially NAION.
  • Sudden hearing loss: May include tinnitus or dizziness.
  • Allergic reaction: Symptoms like hives, breathing difficulty, or facial/throat swelling.
  • Heart attack symptoms: Chest pain or pressure.

Important drug interactions and contraindications

Avoid Tadalafil with:

  • Nitrates: Can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
  • Alpha-blockers: May also significantly lower blood pressure.
  • Certain Antifungals and Antibiotics: Can increase Tadalafil levels.
  • Riociguat: Should not be used together.
  • Excessive Alcohol: Can increase the risk of low blood pressure, headache, and dizziness.

Tadalafil (L339) vs. Sildenafil (Viagra)

Both are PDE5 inhibitors for ED, but differ in duration and other factors:

Feature Tadalafil (L339) Sildenafil (Viagra)
Drug Class Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor
Uses ED, BPH, PAH ED, PAH
Brand Names Cialis, Adcirca, Alyq Viagra, Revatio
Onset of Action 1-2 hours 30-60 minutes
Duration Up to 36 hours 4-5 hours
Dosage Frequency (for ED) Daily or as-needed As-needed
Food Interaction No major food interaction, but grapefruit juice should be avoided. Best taken on an empty stomach for faster effect.

Conclusion

The L339 pill contains Tadalafil and is used for ED, BPH, and PAH. Its duration of action can be an important consideration. Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure Tadalafil is safe and appropriate for your condition and to receive proper guidance on administration.

For more detailed information, consult the official FDA prescribing information for Tadalafil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, L339 contains Tadalafil, the same active ingredient found in Cialis.

Yes, Tadalafil can be taken with or without food, but avoid grapefruit products.

Effects typically begin within 30 minutes to two hours and can last up to 36 hours.

Common side effects include headaches, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and nasal congestion.

Moderate alcohol is generally okay, but excessive drinking increases the risk of side effects like low blood pressure.

Avoid if you use nitrate drugs, have certain heart conditions, or take riociguat. Always inform your doctor of your medical history.

Yes, as a vasodilator, Tadalafil can mildly lower blood pressure, especially when combined with other blood pressure medications or excessive alcohol.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.