It’s vital to adhere strictly to the instructions given by your healthcare provider when taking tadalafil. Your prescribed dosage may vary based on factors like your medical condition and overall health.
Always carefully read the information included with your medicine, as it may contain critical dosing instructions that differ from those for other patients.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in tablets of various strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
For managing erectile dysfunction, the recommended starting dose is typically 10mg, taken as needed, at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity. It is essential not to exceed one dose in a 24-hour period.
Depending on your response to the medication and any side effects, your healthcare provider may modify your dosage, increasing or decreasing it based on your individual needs.
Given the long-lasting effects of tadalafil, daily use of the 10mg or 20mg doses is not generally advised unless your healthcare provider specifically prescribes it.
Please remember that sexual arousal is necessary to achieve the desired effects of tadalafil.
Dose for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
For benign prostatic hyperplasia, tadalafil is usually prescribed in doses of 2.5mg or 5mg, with 5mg being the standard daily recommended dose.
Patients experiencing both erectile dysfunction and BPH are generally advised to take 5mg of tadalafil daily.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
In treating pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is usually available in 20mg tablets. The typical prescription is 40mg daily, achieved by taking two 20mg tablets in a single daily dose.
Those with kidney or liver issues may be prescribed a lower starting dose of 10mg or 20mg, as deemed appropriate by their healthcare professional.
Swallow the tablets whole, accompanied by a full glass of water. It is advisable to avoid grapefruit juice, as it may interfere with the effectiveness of tadalafil.
For erectile dysfunction treatment, it is suggested to take tadalafil 30 minutes before sexual activity.
If prescribed for BPH, take your tablet at a consistent time each day, though you may choose any time that suits you best.
Be advised that the tablets prescribed for pulmonary hypertension can be relatively large, which may make them more difficult to swallow.
If you forget to take it
If you miss a dose:
- For benign prostatic hyperplasia – Take it as soon as you remember, and then continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension – If you remember within 8 hours, take the missed dose promptly. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip that dose and go back to your normal dosing routine.
Do not take two doses at once, and refrain from compensating for a missed dose by taking extra medication. Utilizing an alarm can serve as a helpful reminder for your medication timings.
If you take too much
Taking an excessive amount of tadalafil can result in side effects such as:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Indigestion
- Stuffy nose
- Visual disturbances, including blurred vision
Urgent advice: Contact your healthcare provider immediately if:
- You suspect you have consumed more than the prescribed dosage of tadalafil.
For assistance, please visit nhs.uk or call 111.
Important: If you require emergency medical help, do not drive yourself. Arrange for someone else to transport you or call for emergency services.
Be sure to carry the tadalafil packet or leaflet, any leftover tablets, and any information regarding other medications you may be taking.
Page last reviewed: 11 November 2022
Next review due: 11 November 2025.