It is crucial to take tadalafil as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist. Following the provided instructions will ensure the medication is effective and safe for your health. Missing or misusing doses may adversely affect your treatment outcomes.
If you have a private prescription for tadalafil, pay careful attention to the accompanying information, as dosage instructions can vary based on individual health needs and specific medical conditions.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in tablet form with various strengths including 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. The dosage prescribed may depend on a variety of factors including your health status and the condition being treated.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The typical tadalafil dosage for erectile dysfunction is 10mg taken as needed, generally around 30 minutes before planned sexual activity. It is essential not to take more than one tablet within a 24-hour period to avoid adverse effects.
Depending on individual response and frequency of use, your doctor may adjust your dosage either upwards or downwards according to your efficacy and tolerability.
The effects of tadalafil can last longer than 24 hours; therefore, daily usage of 10mg or 20mg tablets is not recommended unless advised by your healthcare provider.
For optimal efficacy, it is necessary to achieve sexual arousal following the intake of the tablet.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
When prescribed for benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil typically comes in 2.5mg or 5mg tablets, with a usual and effective dose of 5mg taken once daily for the management of symptoms.
For patients receiving treatment for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, a combined dose of 5mg is generally prescribed to address both conditions simultaneously.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is commonly prescribed in 20mg tablets, with the standard dose being 40mg, which is equivalent to taking two 20mg tablets once daily.
Patients with kidney or liver complications may require a reduced starting dose of 10mg or 20mg depending on individual metabolic capacity.
Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water or juice, and avoid grapefruit juice as it can interfere with the medication metabolism.
For individuals taking tadalafil for erectile dysfunction, it is recommended to take the tablet at least 30 minutes prior to anticipated sexual activity for best results.
If you are taking tadalafil for prostate enlargement, the tablet can be taken in the morning or evening; however, consistency in timing is advisable to maintain steady blood levels.
It is important to note that tadalafil tablets designed for pulmonary hypertension are relatively large and may pose swallowing challenges for some patients; consult your healthcare provider if difficulties arise.
If you forget to take it
In case you miss a dose:
- For benign prostate enlargement – take it as soon as you remember and then continue with your regular schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension – take it within 8 hours if possible. If you remember after 8 hours, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Never take two doses at the same time, and avoid compensating for a missed dose by taking an extra one later. This could lead to an overdose and increase the risk of side effects.
If forgetting doses becomes a frequent occurrence, consider setting reminders, utilizing smartphone apps, or seeking guidance from a pharmacist on effective strategies to improve medication adherence.
If you take too much
Taking more tadalafil than prescribed can lead to unwanted side effects, which may include:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- visual disturbances (such as blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact your healthcare provider immediately if:
- you have ingested more tadalafil than prescribed
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for assistance. They will guide you through the steps to take next.
Important Information:
Should you require emergency care, do not drive yourself. Arrange for someone to drive you or contact emergency services for prompt assistance.
Bring along the tadalafil packaging, any remaining tablets, and a list of other medications you are taking to your healthcare provider or emergency department.