It's essential to adhere to the prescribed guidelines for taking this medication as outlined by your healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist.
If you are using a private prescription for tadalafil, it is crucial to thoroughly read and understand the informational leaflet that accompanies your medication. This leaflet contains important details about the strength of the tablets you are prescribed and the specific dosage instructions, which may vary based on individual health needs.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, allowing for flexibility in dosing.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
For the treatment of erectile dysfunction, the typical starting dose of tadalafil is 10mg, taken when necessary. It is very important to note that you should not consume more than one tablet in a single day.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage based on your response to the treatment and the frequency of use, tailoring the approach to optimize your experience.
Generally, the effects of tadalafil can last longer than 24 hours; therefore, daily intake of the 10mg or 20mg tablets is not advised.
For optimum effectiveness of the medication, it is necessary for you to be sexually aroused at the time of taking the tablet.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
When managing benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is provided in either 2.5mg or 5mg tablet forms, with the recommended dosage being 5mg, which should be taken once daily.
Should you be receiving treatment for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction simultaneously, a dosage of 5mg is the standard recommendation.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For individuals diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is available in 20mg tablets, specifically formulated for this condition.
The usual prescribed dose for this condition is 40mg, which consists of two 20mg tablets taken once each day.
If there are any existing kidney or liver issues, your healthcare provider may consider initiating your treatment with a reduced dosage of 10mg or 20mg.
Make sure to swallow the tablets whole along with a drink of water or juice, but be cautious to avoid grapefruit juice, which can interfere with the medication.
For those taking tadalafil for erectile dysfunction, it is advisable to ingest one tablet at least 30 minutes prior to planned sexual activity for best results.
If your purpose for taking tadalafil is to address prostate enlargement, you have the flexibility to take your tablet either in the morning or in the evening. However, for consistency, it is recommended to take it at the same time daily.
Bear in mind that tadalafil tablets meant for pulmonary hypertension are relatively large in size, which might pose difficulties in swallowing for some individuals.
If you forget to take it
In the event that you have forgotten to take your prescribed dose:
- benign prostate enlargement – take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then carry on as per your usual schedule
- pulmonary hypertension – make sure to take the missed dose within 8 hours of the original dosing time if possible. If it is over 8 hours after the original time, simply skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing routine
It is crucial never to take two doses at once in an attempt to compensate for a missed dose. Avoid taking an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one under any circumstances.
If you find that you frequently forget to take your medication, consider setting an alarm or reminder to prompt you. Additionally, you might also want to consult your pharmacist for further advice on effective strategies to help you remember your medication schedule.
If you take too much
Exceeding the prescribed amount of tadalafil can lead to several adverse side effects, which may include:
- intense headache
- dizziness and lightheadedness
- indigestion or upset stomach
- nasal congestion or stuffiness
- visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or changes in color perception
Urgent advice: It is imperative that you contact 111 for immediate assistance if you experience any of the following:
- you have ingested more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
For further information, visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111
Information:
If a visit to Accident & Emergency is necessary, never attempt to drive yourself. Arrange for someone to drive you or call 999 for an ambulance.
When seeking medical assistance, remember to bring the tadalafil packaging or insert, any remaining tablets, and a list of all medications you are currently taking.