Taking tadalafil should always be done as advised by your healthcare provider. It's essential to review any documentation that accompanies your prescription to ensure you understand the medication's dosage instructions. Adhering to these guidelines can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your treatment while minimizing potential risks.
The dosage of tadalafil may vary depending on the condition being treated, so it is vital to follow your doctor's recommendations closely. This individualized approach helps in achieving optimal results while ensuring the safety of the patient.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various strengths, including 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, and 20mg tablets, offering flexibility in dosage to ensure that each patient receives the best possible treatment tailored to their specific condition.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
For treating erectile dysfunction, the usual starting dose of tadalafil is 10mg. However, some healthcare providers may prescribe 15 mg tadalafil based on individual needs and health assessments. It is crucial not to exceed one tablet in a 24-hour period to avoid adverse effects.
Your doctor may adjust your dosage depending on your response to the medication, the frequency of use, and any other underlying health conditions that may affect treatment.
Be aware that the effects of tadalafil may last longer than 24 hours, so taking higher doses or multiple doses in one day is strongly discouraged to prevent complications.
For optimal effectiveness, sexual stimulation is required alongside taking tadalafil. This ensures the medication works as intended, leading to improved outcomes in sexual performance.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
In cases of benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is generally prescribed at a dose of 5mg or less. If the 15 mg tadalafil dose is necessary, it should be taken under strict medical supervision to monitor for any potential side effects.
Patients requiring treatment for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction may be prescribed a combined dose approach, ensuring each condition is adequately managed.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, the typical starting dose may be 20mg, but a healthcare professional may suggest adjusting it to 15 mg or another strength based on thorough clinical evaluation and individual patient response.
It's important to monitor kidney or liver functions, as your doctor may recommend a lower starting dose for patients with these conditions to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Take the tablets whole with a full glass of water or juice, while avoiding grapefruit juice due to potential interactions that could affect how the medication works.
When using tadalafil for erectile dysfunction, it is recommended to consume it at least 30 minutes before planned sexual activity, allowing the medication enough time to take effect.
When treating benign prostate enlargement, taking your pill at the same time every day can improve your results and help maintain a steady level of the medication in your system.
If you forget to take it
If you forget your dose:
- For benign prostate enlargement – take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and continue your usual schedule, ensuring continuity of the treatment regimen.
- For pulmonary hypertension – take it within 8 hours of the missed dose. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip it entirely and resume your normal dosing schedule to avoid complications.
Never double up on doses to compensate for a missed one, as this can lead to an increased risk of adverse reactions.
Set reminders to improve medication compliance. Your pharmacist may also provide additional strategies for managing missed doses effectively.
If you take too much
Overdosing on tadalafil can lead to undesirable side effects such as:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- nasal congestion
- changes in vision (e.g., blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for immediate support if:
- you take more than the prescribed dose of tadalafil
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for assistance regarding overdose management.
Important information:
If hospital treatment is necessary due to side effects or overdose, do not drive. Arrange for someone else to transport you or call 999 for an ambulance for safer transit.
Bring the tadalafil packaging or information leaflet, along with any remaining tablets and other medications you are currently taking, to ensure medical staff have all the necessary information.