It is essential to follow the prescribed regimen for tadalafil as directed by your healthcare professional, be it a physician or pharmacist.
Upon receiving your prescription for tadalafil, attentively review the accompanying patient information to familiarize yourself with the specifics, as dosage and administration details may vary between individuals and formulations.
Dosage and Strength
Tadalafil comes in a range of strengths, including 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, allowing for tailored treatment.
Recommended Dose for Daily Use
For those prescribed tadalafil for the management of erectile dysfunction, the usual starting dose is 10 mg, to be taken once daily, at approximately the same time each day.
Your healthcare provider may modify your dosage based on your response to the treatment and the occurrence of any side effects. It is crucial to adhere to the maximum recommended dose of 10 mg a day unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.
When taking tadalafil daily, the beneficial effects can persist for over 24 hours, granting flexibility in terms of sexual activity.
For optimal efficacy, note that sexual stimulation is required for tadalafil to work effectively.
Dose for Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH)
For the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia, the standard dose is typically 5 mg taken once daily. If you also experience erectile dysfunction, it is advisable to maintain this same dosage of 5 mg.
Dose for Pulmonary Hypertension
In patients with pulmonary hypertension, the initial recommended dose is 40 mg, typically administered as two 20 mg tablets once daily. Your healthcare provider will assess your individual response and may adjust the dosage as needed.
The tablets should be ingested whole with a glass of water. Avoid grapefruit juice, as it may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.
If You Forget to Take It
In the event that you miss a dose:
- For erectile dysfunction: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless the next scheduled dose is imminent. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension: If you realize you have missed a dose, take it within 8 hours of the scheduled time. If more than 8 hours have passed, forgo the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.
Avoid taking two doses simultaneously to compensate for a missed dose. Setting a daily reminder can aid in maintaining a consistent medication schedule.
If You Take Too Much
Exceeding the prescribed dosage of tadalafil can result in various side effects, which may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Indigestion
- Stuffy nose
- Vision changes, including blurred vision
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for guidance if:
- You have inadvertently ingested a dose greater than that prescribed for you.
For assistance, please visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111.
Important Information:
If a trip to the emergency room is necessary, avoid driving yourself. It is advisable to arrange for someone else to provide transportation or to call for an ambulance.
Ensure to bring the tadalafil package or leaflet, any remaining tablets, and a list of all other medications you are currently taking.