Study links long-term tadalafil use to higher glaucoma risk in men 40 and older

Long-term use of tadalafil, the drug sold as Cialis for erectile dysfunction and enlarged prostate symptoms, was linked to a higher risk of glaucoma in a large observational study summarized by Fox News.

Researchers reviewed health records from nearly 74,000 men ages 40 and older with lower urinary tract symptoms. About 37,000 had been prescribed tadalafil. They were compared with a similar group who did not use phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, the drug class that includes Cialis. Men were followed for up to five years for new glaucoma, high pressure inside the eye, and glaucoma treatment.

Tadalafil users were 22 percent more likely to develop glaucoma, 32 percent more likely to develop high intraocular pressure, and 33 percent more likely to develop primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form. The paper appeared in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

Optometrist Valerie Kattouf of the Illinois Eye Institute, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital that glaucoma often shows no visual symptoms early on. Peripheral vision can fade later. She said people with a family history of glaucoma, high eye pressure, or severe nearsightedness may need closer watch, as may long-term daily Cialis users. A comprehensive eye exam can set a baseline and check pressure.

The study was observational, so it shows an association, not proof the drug caused glaucoma. Researchers could not fully account for medication changes or new health conditions over time. They said patients should not stop tadalafil on their own. Men on long-term therapy, especially those with existing eye risks, may benefit from regular monitoring. Fox News Digital sought comment from Eli Lilly, which makes Cialis.

Primary care and urology visits often focus on urinary and sexual symptoms and skip eye history. Adding a yearly dilated exam, or sooner if vision changes, gives doctors a baseline if pressure rises later. Patients who already have glaucoma should tell both their eye doctor and the clinician who manages tadalafil so monitoring can be coordinated.