Taking tadalafil as directed by your healthcare provider is essential for its effectiveness and safety. Following the prescribed guidelines can help manage your condition effectively.
If you receive a private prescription for tadalafil, ensure that you carefully review the accompanying information. The recommended strengths and dosage instructions may differ based on individual health profiles and medical histories.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in tablet form with strengths of 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The typical starting dose for erectile dysfunction is 10mg, taken when necessary. It is crucial not to exceed one tablet in a single day.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage based on your individual response to the medication and how frequently you require it.
Tadalafil’s effects can last over 24 hours; thus, daily intake of the 10mg or 20mg doses is not advised.
For the medication to be effective, sexual stimulation is required.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
When prescribed for benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil typically comes in 2.5mg or 5mg tablets, with the common dose being 5mg, taken once daily.
If receiving treatment for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the standard dose remains 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
Tadalafil for pulmonary hypertension is administered in 20mg tablets.
A standard daily dosage is 40mg, requiring two 20mg tablets taken concurrently.
For individuals with renal or hepatic impairments, starting doses may be reduced to 10mg or 20mg.
Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water or juice (avoiding grapefruit juice).
If using tadalafil for erectile dysfunction, it is advised to take one tablet at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity.
When taking tadalafil for prostate enlargement, it can be administered in the morning or evening, but it’s beneficial to maintain consistency by taking it at the same time daily.
The tablets for pulmonary hypertension are larger and may present challenges for some patients when swallowing.
If you forget to take it
In case of a missed dose:
- For benign prostate enlargement – take the tablet as soon as you realize, then resume your usual schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension – take it within 8 hours of the scheduled time. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and proceed with the next dose at the regular time.
Do not take two doses simultaneously, nor should you take an extra dose to compensate for a forgotten one.
If you frequently forget to take doses, consider setting reminders to assist you. Consulting with a pharmacist for additional memory aids may also be beneficial.
If you take too much
Overdosing on tadalafil can lead to several side effects, which may include:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- nasal congestion
- visual disturbances (like blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact your healthcare provider immediately if:
- you exceed the prescribed dose of tadalafil
You can reach out to 111.nhs.uk or dial 111 for assistance.
Information:
If you need emergency assistance, do not drive yourself. Arrange for someone to take you, or call 999 for an ambulance.
Bring the tadalafil packaging or leaflet, any leftover medication, and a list of other medications you are taking.