It’s crucial to adhere strictly to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding this medicine. Proper adherence ensures that the treatment is safe and effective.
If you possess a private prescription for tadalafil, it is vital to thoroughly read the enclosed information that accompanies your medication. Be aware that the strength and dosage recommendations can differ based on individual health factors.
Dosage and strength
The available forms of tadalafil are as follows: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets. Each form serves a different purpose based on the condition being treated.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The standard starting dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction typically is 10mg taken prior to anticipated sexual activity. It is vital to avoid taking more than one tablet within a 24-hour period.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage based on your individual response to the medication and the frequency of use.
Keep in mind that the effects of tadalafil may endure for over 24 hours; hence, daily consumption of 10mg or 20mg tablets is not advisable.
To ensure optimal effectiveness of the tablet, it is necessary to be sexually aroused before taking the medication.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For managing benign prostate hyperplasia, tadalafil is available in 2.5mg or 5mg tablet forms. The typical recommendation is for 5mg to be consumed once daily.
In cases where treatment is required for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the standard dose remains at 5mg daily.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is available specifically in 20mg tablets.
The general prescription is for a total of 40mg – which equates to two 20mg tablets taken once a day.
Patients with kidney or liver concerns may require a modified starting dose, potentially lowered to 10mg or 20mg as determined by their physician.
Always swallow your tablets whole with a sufficient amount of water or juice (note: avoid grapefruit juice, as it may interact with tadalafil).
For erectile dysfunction, timing is crucial; ensure to take 1 tablet no less than 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activities.
When taking tadalafil for prostate enlargement, you may choose to take your medication in the morning or evening, though consistency is key—try to take it at the same time every day.
Note that tadalafil tablets designed for pulmonary hypertension are relatively large and may pose a challenge for some patients to swallow.
If you forget to take it
If you miss a dose, your next steps vary based on the condition being treated:
- For benign prostate enlargement – take it as soon as you remember and then resume your usual schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension – if possible, take your missed dose within a window of 8 hours. If the 8-hour mark has passed, skip the missed dose and proceed with your next scheduled dose.
It is vital never to consume 2 doses at once in an attempt to compensate for a missed dose. Do not take an extra dose to make up for one that was forgotten.
If forgetting doses becomes a recurrent issue, consider setting an alarm as a reminder. Alternatively, consult a pharmacist to explore additional strategies that may assist you in maintaining your medication schedule.
If you take too much
Ingesting an excessive amount of tadalafil can lead to various side effects, including but not limited to:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- congested nose
- alterations in vision, such as experiencing blurred vision
Urgent advice: Contact medical services immediately if:
- you ingest more than the prescribed dose of tadalafil
Seek information at 111.nhs.uk or dial 111
Information:
Should you require emergency treatment, refrain from driving. It is advisable to request someone else to drive you or to contact emergency services by calling 999 to arrange for an ambulance.
Make sure to carry with you the tadalafil packaging or accompanying leaflet, any remaining tablets, and a list of any other medications you are currently taking.