It's important to take this medicine as advised by a qualified healthcare professional, such as your physician or pharmacist. Adhering to their guidance ensures that you receive the benefits of the medication while minimizing potential risks.
If you have a private prescription for tadalafil, it is crucial to read the accompanying information that comes with your medicine thoroughly. The strength of the medication and dosage instructions can differ significantly, so understanding these details is essential for safe usage.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various forms, specifically as 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets. Each strength is designed to accommodate different needs and conditions.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The typical starting dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction is 10mg, taken on an as-needed basis. It is important to adhere to the guideline of not exceeding one tablet within a single day.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage upwards or downwards based on your individual response to the medication and how frequently you require it.
Keep in mind that the effects of tadalafil can last longer than 24 hours, making it inadvisable to take the 10mg or 20mg tablets on a daily basis.
In order for the tablet to function effectively in treating erectile dysfunction, you must be sexually aroused at the time of taking the medication.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
When used for treating an enlarged prostate, tadalafil is available in 2.5mg or 5mg tablets. The standard dose for this indication is 5mg, to be taken once daily for optimal results.
If you are concurrently being treated for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the recommended dose remains at 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For the treatment of pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is available in the form of 20mg tablets.
The recommended dose in this case is typically 40mg, which consists of two 20mg tablets taken once daily to effectively manage your condition.
In patients with kidney or liver issues, your doctor may consider adjusting the initial dose down to either 10mg or 20mg as a precautionary measure.
For administration, swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water or juice (except grapefruit juice, which can interact with the medication).
For erectile dysfunction treatment, it is advisable to take one tablet at least 30 minutes prior to the anticipated sexual activity to allow the medication time to take effect.
When taking tadalafil for benign prostate enlargement, you may choose to take your tablet in the morning or evening, but consistency in timing each day is recommended for the best results.
Please note that tadalafil tablets used for pulmonary hypertension are relatively large and might pose a challenge for some individuals to swallow.
If you forget to take it
If you forget a dose, the course of action will depend on your specific condition:
- benign prostate enlargement – take the missed dose as soon as you remember and then continue with your regular schedule
- pulmonary hypertension – if you remember within 8 hours, take it as soon as possible. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and proceed with your next dose at the usual time
It is crucial never to take two doses at the same time nor to take an extra dose to compensate for the missed one, as this could lead to adverse effects.
If you find that you often forget to take your doses, it may be beneficial to set an alarm as a reminder. Additionally, consulting with your pharmacist for further strategies to help you remember to take your medicine consistently could prove helpful.
If you take too much
Exceeding the prescribed amount of tadalafil can lead to several possible side effects, which may include:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- visual disturbances (such as blurred vision)
Urgent advice: It is essential that you contact 111 for immediate advice if:
- you take more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
You can visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for guidance
Information:
Should you need to go to A&E due to any adverse effects, do not attempt to drive yourself. It is advisable to ask someone to drive you or to call 999 for an ambulance.
Remember to bring the tadalafil packaging or leaflet, any remaining tablets, and a list of your other medications when seeking medical attention.