What's the Best Cialis Dosage? Cialis Dosages Explained

Last reviewed: 10 Jan 2025

• 1. What Cialis dosages are available?
• 2. About Cialis 10mg
• 3. About Cialis 20mg
• 4. About Cialis Daily 2.5mg and 5mg
• 5. How often can you take a dose of Cialis?
• 6. What if my current dose isn’t working?
• 7. How do Cialis doses compare with Viagra ones?

Cialis is available in four different dosages in the USA:

• 2.5mg: small white pills with ‘2.5mg’ engraved
• 5mg: small light orange pills with ‘5mg’ engraved
• 10mg: large light orange pills with ‘10mg’ engraved
• 20mg: large dark orange pills with ‘20mg’ engraved

The dosage indicates the amount of the active ingredient, ‘tadalafil’. The lower doses of 2.5mg and 5mg are typically prescribed for daily use, while the higher doses (10mg and 20mg) are taken as needed, generally at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity.

The maximum recommended dose for erectile dysfunction treatment is 20mg. Higher doses may increase the risk of adverse effects due to elevated tadalafil levels in the bloodstream.

Dr. Zenon Andreou Medical Director

The 10mg dose is typically recommended for individuals who have sexual activity planned on up to three days each week and have not previously used Cialis:

• Cialis 10mg is taken on-demand, at least half an hour before sexual intercourse.
• The effects can last up to 36 hours, offering a flexible window for sexual spontaneity.
• This dosage is effective for most users and has a lower incidence of side effects compared to the 20mg option.
• 10mg tablets come in various packaging options, generally ranging from 4 to 28 tablets.

If the 10mg dose does not yield satisfactory results (without side effects), a trial of the 20mg dosage may be warranted:

• Like 10mg, the 20mg formulation is taken as needed, at least 30 minutes before sexual activity.
• This dose also offers effects lasting up to 36 hours.
• 20mg is suitable for patients who require a stronger response than what 10mg provides, although it may lead to more frequent side effects.
• Available in similar packaging sizes, from 4 to 28 tablets.

If sexual activity is anticipated on more than three days per week, a daily Cialis regimen might be the best choice. The available dosages include:

• 5mg, which is the preferred daily dose, is taken once each day at the same time.
• Adhering to a daily regimen ensures consistent results without the need to time doses around sexual activity.
• If side effects occur from 5mg, switching to the 2.5mg daily dose may be beneficial as it has a lower side effect profile.
• Both options are offered in 28-tablet packs.

All Cialis formulations can be taken up to once daily. However, exceeding one tablet every 24 hours is not recommended.

Consider switching to Cialis Daily if:

• You are regularly consuming the 10mg or 20mg options across more than three days weekly.
• Your use overlaps with the 36-hour effect window, which could lead to elevated tadalafil levels and increased side effects.
• You find the effects wear off before 24 hours elapse, prompting further doses.

• If you’re using 2.5mg or 10mg without side effects, consider a dosage increase after consulting your healthcare provider.
• For those on a daily regimen of 5mg, exploring higher on-demand doses might be beneficial, yet always after discussing it with your doctor.

If 20mg is ineffective, it may be time to investigate alternative medications or treatments to complement your erectile dysfunction management strategy. This could include lifestyle changes, counseling, or vacuum devices, but combining Cialis with other erectile dysfunction meds is contraindicated.

• Erectile Dysfunction Overview
• ED Treatment Options
• Psychological Aspects of ED
• Causes of ED
• Understanding ED Treatments