It's crucial to adhere to the dosage recommendations provided by a healthcare professional, whether that be your doctor or a pharmacist.
For those holding a private prescription for tadalafil, it's essential to thoroughly review all instructions accompanying your medication. The information on strength and dosage can differ significantly.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in the following strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The standard dose recommended for erectile dysfunction is 10mg when needed. It is important to note that you should not exceed the intake of one tablet per day.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage, either increasing or decreasing it based on your response to treatment and frequency of use.
Keep in mind that the effects of tadalafil can last over 24 hours, so daily use of the 10mg or 20mg tablets is generally not advised.
For tadalafil to be effective, sexual arousal is necessary – it's not an automatic solution for erectile dysfunction.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
When treating benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is dispensed in 2.5mg or 5mg tablets. The common prescription is for a dosage of 5mg to be taken once every day.
If you are being treated for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the recommended dosage remains at 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
When prescribed for pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is available in 20mg tablets.
Typically, the dosage is set at 40mg, which consists of taking two 20mg tablets once daily.
If you have kidney or liver issues, your physician may opt to lower your initial dose to either 10mg or 20mg for safety reasons.
Ensure to swallow your tablets whole with a sufficient amount of water or juice, but avoid grapefruit juice, as it can interfere with the medication.
For erectile dysfunction, it's advisable to take one tablet no less than 30 minutes before sexual activity.
In cases of prostate enlargement, you may take your medication in the morning or evening; however, maintaining a consistent time daily is optimal.
It's worth noting that tadalafil tablets for pulmonary hypertension are larger in size, which may pose difficulty when swallowing for some patients.
If you forget to take it
In the event that you miss a dose:
- For benign prostate enlargement: take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then continue your regular schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension: take it within an 8-hour window if you remember. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume with your next scheduled dose.
Under no circumstances should you take two doses simultaneously. Never attempt to compensate for a missed dose by taking an extra one.
If you find that you frequently forget to take your medication, setting an alarm could be beneficial. Additionally, consulting with a pharmacist may provide other strategies to better manage your medication schedule.
If you take too much
Overdosing on tadalafil may lead to the following adverse effects:
- headaches
- feelings of dizziness
- indigestion
- nasal congestion
- visual disturbances, such as blurred vision
Urgent advice: Should you experience any of these symptoms, contact 111 for immediate assistance.
- if you take more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for further guidance.
Additional Information:
In cases requiring a visit to A&E, do not drive yourself. Arrange for someone to drive you, or call 999 to request an ambulance.
Always remember to bring the tadalafil packaging or the informational leaflet contained within, any leftover medication, and a list of all other medicines you are currently using.