What's the Best Cialis Dosage? Cialis Dosages Explained

Last reviewed: 10 Jan 2025

Cialis is available in four primary dosages:

• 2.5mg: small white tablets labeled with ‘2.5mg’
• 5mg: small light orange tablets labeled with ‘5mg’
• 10mg: larger light orange tablets with ‘10mg’ printed
• 20mg: larger dark orange tablets indicating ‘20mg’

The dosage instructions for Cialis specify how much of the active ingredient, tadalafil, is present in each tablet. Lower dosages (2.5mg and 5mg) are intended for daily usage, while the higher dosages (10mg and 20mg) are recommended for on-demand usage, requiring ingestion at least 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity and not intended for daily intake.

In the UK, the upper limit for tadalafil prescribed for erectile dysfunction is typically 20mg; however, some regions, like the US, may provide higher doses. It’s important to note that taking higher doses can increase side effects due to the effects of Cialis on blood pressure and its accumulation within the system over time.

In rare medical conditions, a dosage of 40mg of tadalafil may be prescribed for pulmonary arterial hypertension, but this should only occur under strict medical oversight due to possible dangers.

Dr. Zenon Andreou, Medical Director

If you are sexually active two to three times a week and are just beginning your treatment with Cialis, the 10mg dosage is generally the recommended starting point:

• Cialis 10mg is to be taken as needed, a minimum of 30 minutes ahead of sexual activity
• This particular dosage can remain effective for as long as 36 hours
• It is known to be effective for many users, presenting a reduced incidence of side effects compared to the higher strengths
• Cialis 10mg comes in a range of pack sizes, including 4, 8, 12, 16, and 28 tablets

If you discover that the 10mg Cialis does not meet your expectations, and you tolerate side effects reasonably well, you might explore increasing to the 20mg dosage:

• Similar to 10mg, the Cialis 20mg should be taken as needed, at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity
• This dosage can also provide effects lasting up to 36 hours
• 20mg may better suit those who did not find adequate relief with 10mg; however, the potential for side effects is likewise raised
• Cialis 20mg is available in varying pack sizes such as 4, 8, 12, 16, and 28 tablets

If your sexual activities exceed three times a week, a daily Cialis regimen may be more advantageous. It is offered in two dosages, with 5mg being the norm:

• 5mg should be consumed once daily at the same time each day
• Regular usage ensures the medication's effects remain consistently available
• If the 5mg is effective but results in side effects, transitioning to 2.5mg may help reduce adverse reactions while still preserving effectiveness
• Both daily dosing options come in packs of 28 tablets

All dosages of Cialis may be taken up to once daily; however, it is essential to never exceed a single tablet within a 24-hour span.

Consider switching to Cialis Daily if:

• You find yourself taking the higher on-demand doses (10mg or 20mg) more than three times a week.
• You are attempting to "top-up" after 24 hours. Given that the effects of on-demand doses last for up to 36 hours, overlapping doses can raise your exposure to the medication and increase the risk of side effects.
• You notice a reduction in Cialis's effectiveness before the 24-hour window and wish to engage in sexual activity again.

• If you've been prescribed 2.5mg or 10mg without experiencing side effects, consult your doctor about potentially increasing your dosage to evaluate for enhanced efficacy.
• If you take a daily 5mg dose, considering a higher on-demand dosage might be beneficial after discussing it with your healthcare provider.

If 20mg doesn't provide the anticipated results, discuss with your physician the possibility of exploring alternative medications or combining Cialis with other approaches like lifestyle modifications, counseling, or therapy. Avoid using Cialis with other erectile dysfunction medications unless instructed by a healthcare professional, and do not exceed the suggested daily amount.

Though both Cialis and Viagra address erectile dysfunction, they consist of differing active ingredients, rendering their dosages non-comparable. For instance, a 20mg Viagra dose does not equate to 20mg of Cialis.

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