It's important to take this medicine as advised by a doctor or pharmacist. This ensures you get the maximum benefit while minimizing the risk of potential side effects or interactions with other medications you might be taking.
If you have a private prescription for tadalafil, read the information that comes with your medicine carefully. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the specific strength, dosage instructions, and any other pertinent details, as these can vary significantly between different preparations and individual needs.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil comes as 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg and 20mg tablets, which allows flexibility in dosing based on individual requirements and responses to the treatment.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The usual dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction is 10mg taken as needed prior to sexual activity. It’s essential that you do not take more than 1 tablet in a 24-hour period to avoid adverse effects.
Your doctor may adjust your dose based on effectiveness and tolerability, ensuring that you maintain the optimal dosage for your situation.
Keep in mind, the effects of tadalafil may last longer than 24 hours, which is why regular daily dosing of the 10mg or 20mg tablets is not recommended unless specifically directed by your physician.
For the tablet to work effectively, being sexually excited is necessary as it does not act as an aphrodisiac.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For the treatment of an enlarged prostate, tadalafil is available in lower strengths of 2.5mg or 5mg tablets, with a typical dosage being 5mg taken once daily for effective symptom management.
In cases where patients are being treated for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the recommended dose remains at 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is provided in 20mg tablet form, with the standard dose being 40mg daily, typically administered as two 20mg tablets.
For patients with kidney or liver issues, your healthcare provider might consider starting you on a lower dose of 10mg or 20mg to mitigate any potential complications.
Swallow your tablets whole, and always use a full glass of water or juice (but avoid grapefruit juice due to potential interactions that could enhance side effects).
In cases of erectile dysfunction, aim to take 1 tablet at least 30 minutes in advance of planned sexual activity for optimal effectiveness.
When using tadalafil for benign prostate enlargement, you can choose to take your tablet in the morning or evening; consistency—taking it at the same time each day—helps maintain steady levels of medication in your system.
Be aware that tadalafil tablets for pulmonary hypertension are rather large, so if you find them difficult to swallow, consider discussing this with your healthcare provider.
If you forget to take it
If you miss a dose:
- benign prostate enlargement – take it as soon as you remember, and then carry on following your regular schedule
- pulmonary hypertension – you should take it within 8 hours of the missed dose if you can, but if it’s after 8 hours, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regular scheduled time to take your medication
Avoid the mistake of doubling up on doses by not taking 2 doses at the same time or compensating for a forgotten dose with an extra one, as this can lead to an overdose.
If you find that you frequently forget to take your medication, setting an alarm or reminder can be a helpful strategy, or consider asking your pharmacist for additional advice on effective ways to remember to take your medicine.
If you take too much
Taking more than the prescribed amount of tadalafil can result in a number of side effects, including but not limited to:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- changes to your vision (such as blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for guidance immediately if:
- you take more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
Access the NHS services at 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for assistance
Information:
In case you need to visit an Accident & Emergency department, please do not drive yourself. Arrange for someone else to drive you or, if necessary, call 999 for an ambulance to ensure prompt medical attention.
It is critical to bring the tadalafil packet or the information leaflet contained within it, any leftover tablets, and a comprehensive list of any other medications you are currently taking to aid healthcare professionals in providing the best care.