Cialis (tadalafil) is a widely prescribed medication primarily aimed at treating erectile dysfunction and the associated symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is available in tablet form and can be taken either as needed or on a daily basis, depending on the specific medical condition being addressed.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the dosages associated with Cialis, including its various forms, strengths, and guidelines for taking the medication. For further details and insights into Cialis, we invite you to explore our extensive article.
Important Note: This article outlines the standard dosages recommended for Cialis, as specified by the manufacturer. It is crucial to adhere strictly to the dosage prescribed by your physician when using this medication.
* The term “male” refers to the sex assigned at birth. For differentiation between sex and gender, please refer to our additional article.
Find answers to frequently asked questions regarding the dosage of Cialis.
What form does Cialis come in?
Cialis is administered in the form of a tablet that is taken orally.
Available strengths of Cialis (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg)
The tablets of Cialis are available in four distinct strengths: 2.5 milligrams (mg), 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg.
What are the typical dosages of Cialis?
Your physician will generally initiate your treatment with a lower dosage. Over time, they may adjust your dosage to find the optimal amount that works for you. The goal is to prescribe the minimal effective dosage necessary to achieve the desired results.
In patients with specific kidney or liver conditions, a lower dosage may be recommended. This precaution is taken to mitigate the potential risk of side effects that can arise from using the standard dosage with these health issues.
Below, you will find the commonly recommended dosage guidelines for Cialis. Nonetheless, it is essential to follow the specific dosage instructed by your doctor. They will evaluate your individual needs to determine the best treatment approach.
Dosage for erectile dysfunction (ED)
Cialis offers two primary dosage options for treating erectile dysfunction: one for occasional use and another for daily use.
Occasional use for ED
When using Cialis occasionally, you only take it as needed prior to sexual activity. Typically, one 10-mg tablet is recommended before intercourse.
Depending on the effectiveness of the 10-mg dosage for your erectile dysfunction, your physician may adjust your prescription. They may lower the dosage to 5 mg or increase it to 20 mg based on your response to the treatment. You should continue to use it only as needed, prior to anticipated sexual encounters.
You must not exceed one usage of Cialis in a single day. Additionally, you should not take more than the maximum prescribed dosage, which is capped at 20 mg in a 24-hour period. Consuming higher amounts, such as 40 mg, significantly increases the risk of adverse effects, including dangerously low blood pressure and priapism, a condition characterized by an extended, painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer.
Daily use for ED
If you opt for daily use, you will take one Cialis tablet each day. This method does not require timing your dose before sexual activity, but consistency in taking it at the same time every day is essential.
The standard starting dosage for individuals using Cialis for daily ED management is 2.5 mg. If this quantity proves ineffective, your physician might increase it to 5 mg daily.
Dosage for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
The typical dosage for treating symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia with Cialis is 5 mg, taken once daily, for a duration of up to 26 weeks. It’s important to take this medication around the same time every day.
Dosage for ED and BPH
Timing is not an issue for this regimen, as you will take the medication around the same time each day.
Is Cialis used long term?
Indeed, Cialis is usually employed as a long-term treatment option. If you and your healthcare provider conclude that it is both safe and effective for your specific condition, it is likely that you will continue using Cialis over an extended period.
Dosage adjustments
Individuals who have underlying kidney or liver issues may necessitate a modified dosage of Cialis. The standard dosage may exacerbate the risk of side effects due to their pre-existing health conditions.
Your healthcare provider might recommend switching to occasional dosing instead of a daily regimen for managing erectile dysfunction, depending on the severity of your kidney or liver issues.
How can I get the maximum effect from Cialis?
To achieve the most effective results from Cialis, ensure that you take it precisely as prescribed by your physician.
If you are utilizing Cialis as a once-daily medication for erectile dysfunction (ED) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), aim to take your dosage at the same time each day. Maintaining a consistent level of medication in your system is crucial for achieving maximum efficacy. Skipping doses or taking them at irregular times can diminish the drug’s effectiveness.
If you are using Cialis occasionally (on an as-needed basis) for ED, it’s advisable to take your dose at least 2 hours before engaging in sexual activity. This recommendation stems from the fact that it generally takes about 2 hours for the medication to reach its peak concentration in your bloodstream.
As this is an average, you might experience better results if you engage in sexual activity slightly before or after this 2-hour window. According to research studies, Cialis has demonstrated its ability to enhance erectile function anywhere from 30 minutes to as long as 36 hours following a single dose. As long as you adhere to the maximum daily dosage, you can experiment with the timing of sexual activity in relation to your medication intake.
If you have further inquiries on maximizing Cialis’s effectiveness, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
If I take 5 milligrams (mg) of Cialis daily, how long does it take the drug to work?
Cialis is known for its rapid action. Research indicates that the medication begins producing effects approximately 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking the initial dose. However, achieving full efficacy might take several days of continued use. If you do not observe any improvement regarding your BPH symptoms or ED after a week of consistent daily usage, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They may need to re-evaluate your dosage.
Could I take an 80-mg dose of Cialis?
No, taking an 80-mg dose of Cialis is not deemed safe. The maximum recommended daily dosage is established at 20 mg, particularly if the medication is taken on an as-needed basis for erectile dysfunction. Conversely, if you are utilizing Cialis on a daily basis, the upper limit remains at 5 mg per day.
Surpassing the recommended dosages can lead to serious health risks, including critically low blood pressure and priapism, which refers to a prolonged and painful erection lasting in excess of 4 hours.
What’s the typical Cialis dosage for a 70-year-old?
The dosage for Cialis is not solely determined by age. Instead, your healthcare provider will assess your overall health and specific condition before prescribing the appropriate quantity. Prior to prescribing Cialis, your doctor may conduct blood tests to evaluate the functioning of your liver and kidneys, as these are important factors in determining the most suitable dosage.
In many cases, renal function declines with age. For senior patients (aged 65 and up), the metabolism of Cialis may take longer, requiring further consideration. Older adults can also have heightened sensitivity to the drug, leading to an increased likelihood of experiencing side effects.
For a 70-year-old individual, the physician will generally start with a conservative dosage of Cialis. If this initial dosage proves effective, it is likely that the individual will continue on this lower amount. However, if it fails to yield satisfactory results or leads to unwanted side effects, adjustments may be made. Ultimately, the objective is to identify the lowest effective dosage that alleviates BPH symptoms or ED without causing significant complications.
If you have any concerns regarding your Cialis dosage, please consult with your healthcare provider.
How do the dosages for Cialis and Viagra compare?
Both Cialis and Viagra serve as treatment options for erectile dysfunction and can be utilized as needed prior to sexual activity. When using Cialis on an as-needed basis, the usual recommendation is to take a dose approximately 2 hours prior to sexual engagement. In contrast, Viagra is typically taken about 1 hour before sexual activity.
Cialis is also available in a daily dosing option for erectile dysfunction, a feature that Viagra does not offer. This distinction arises from the extended duration of Cialis's effectiveness in comparison to Viagra. A single dosage of Cialis can enhance erectile function for up to 36 hours, while Viagra's benefits generally last no more than 4 hours. On average, its effectiveness begins to decline within 2 to 3 hours post-administration.
The typical daily dosage for Cialis ranges between 2.5 mg and 5 mg. When utilized on an as-needed basis, the common dose is 10 mg (with a maximum limit of 20 mg). For Viagra, the standard dosage is 50 mg.
Engage with your healthcare provider to discuss whether Cialis or Viagra may be more suitable for your specific needs.
Cialis is taken orally, either as a once-daily regimen or as needed before sexual activity.
To consume the Cialis tablet, swallow it whole; you can take it with or without food.
When opting for the once-daily Cialis administration, maintain the habit of taking it at the same time each day. Although there isn’t a universally best time to take the medication, having a consistent schedule ensures stable drug levels in your system.
When taking Cialis occasionally (as required), it is advisable to ingest the dose roughly 2 hours before sexual intercourse. This timeframe allows the medication to achieve its peak efficacy.
Due to variations in individual responses, some users may find that engaging in sexual activity slightly prior to or after the 2-hour mark may yield better results. According to research findings, Cialis can enhance erectile function between 30 minutes to 36 hours post-ingestion.
If you have further questions regarding how to administer Cialis correctly, feel free to reach out to your healthcare professional or pharmacist for guidance.
It is imperative to adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage of Cialis. Utilizing dosages beyond what your physician recommends can result in significant adverse effects.
What to do in case you take too much Cialis
If you suspect you’ve taken an excessive amount of Cialis, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You can also reach out to the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222, or visit their online resource. In cases of severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) right away or proceed to the nearest emergency medical facility.
The specific dosage prescribed for Cialis may hinge on various factors, such as:
- the type and severity of the condition being treated
- your age
- any other existing health conditions, including kidney or liver impairments (refer to "Dosage adjustments" under "What is Cialis’s dosage?")
If your healthcare provider has prescribed you with once-daily Cialis, it is recommended to take your dose consistently at the same time each day. Should you encounter a missed dose, take it as soon as you remember.
However, refrain from exceeding one dosage of Cialis in a single day, as this could elevate your risk for adverse effects, such as low blood pressure or priapism, which involves a painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer.
If you require assistance in remembering to take your Cialis on schedule, consider employing a medication alert system, such as setting an alarm, downloading a reminder application, or even utilizing a kitchen timer.
The sections above provide insight into the typical dosages as recommended by the manufacturer of Cialis. Nevertheless, if your physician endorses Cialis for your use, they will assign you the dosage that aligns with your individual health needs.
Always remember, it is crucial not to alter your Cialis dosage without your doctor's guidance. Follow your prescribed regimen diligently. If you have questions or concerns regarding your dosage, engage with your healthcare provider for clarification.
Here are some examples of pertinent questions you may wish to pose to your doctor:
- How long should I allow Cialis to take effect before consulting regarding a dosage adjustment?
- Which method of taking Cialis—once-daily or occasional dosing—proves more effective for erectile dysfunction?
- How can I determine if my Cialis dosage may need to be lowered?
- Would modifying my dosage potentially elevate or diminish my risk of side effects from this medication?
To gain additional understanding about Cialis, consider perusing these articles:
- Cialis (tadalafil)
- Cialis and Cost: What You Need to Know
- Cialis Interactions: Alcohol, Medications, and Others
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Disclaimer: Healthline has taken extensive measures to ensure the accuracy, comprehensiveness, and timeliness of the information presented. However, this article should not serve as a substitute for the expertise and knowledge of a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or another licensed healthcare provider before starting any medication. The drug information included herein is subject to modifications and may not encompass all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, interactions, allergic responses, or adverse effects. The lack of warnings or information regarding a particular drug does not imply that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or every specific use case.