It’s crucial to take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Following their guidance will optimize the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize potential side effects.
If you have a private prescription for tadalafil, ensure you thoroughly read the accompanying information that comes with your medication. Be aware that strength and dosage recommendations may vary based on individual health needs.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is dispensed in a range of strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate strength based on your condition and health profile.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
For erectile dysfunction, the typical starting dosage of tadalafil is 10mg, taken as needed. It’s vital not to exceed one tablet in a 24-hour period.
Your doctor may modify your dose based on your response to the medication, adjusting it higher or lower as necessary.
Keep in mind that the effects of tadalafil can last over 24 hours, so taking higher doses daily is not recommended.
For optimal efficacy, sexual excitement must occur after taking the tablet.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
When treating benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is typically available in 2.5mg or 5mg strengths, with a common dosage of 5mg taken once daily.
If you are managing both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the recommended dose remains 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is prescribed in 20mg doses.
The usual dose for this condition is 40mg per day, which corresponds to taking two 20mg tablets daily.
If you have kidney or liver concerns, your doctor may reduce the starting dosage to 10mg or 20mg to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Always swallow tablets whole with a sufficient amount of water or juice (avoid grapefruit juice as it may interact negatively).
For erectile dysfunction use, it is recommended to take one tablet at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity.
If you’re taking tadalafil for benign prostate enlargement, choose a consistent time each day to take your medication – either morning or evening is acceptable.
Note that tadalafil tablets for pulmonary hypertension are relatively large, which may pose a difficulty for some individuals to swallow.
If you forget to take it
In cases of missed doses:
- For benign prostate enlargement – take it as soon as you remember, and continue your regular dosage schedule afterwards.
- For pulmonary hypertension – attempt to take your dose within 8 hours. If you miss this window, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule.
Never take two doses simultaneously, nor should you take an extra dose to compensate for a missed one.
If you frequently forget your doses, you may find it beneficial to set reminders or alarms. A pharmacist can also provide recommendations to assist you in remembering your medication schedule.
If you take too much
Exceeding the prescribed amount of tadalafil can lead to side effects, which may include:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- alterations in vision, such as blurred vision
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for guidance immediately if you experience any of the following:
- you have taken more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for assistance.
Additional Information:
If you need to go to emergency services, avoid driving yourself. Request someone to drive you or call 999 for an ambulance.
Remember to bring the tadalafil packaging or leaflet, any leftover medication, and a list of other prescriptions you may be taking.