Dr Simran Deo Medical Editor
Last reviewed: 10 Jan 2025
Choosing the right Cialis dose for erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is essential for enhancing your sexual health and quality of life. Cialis is offered in four strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg. The appropriate dosage may differ depending on your individual needs, your sexual activity frequency, and how well your body reacts to the medication.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the various Cialis dosages, including their recommended uses, potential benefits, and side effects, ensuring you make an informed choice. Additionally, we'll explore how Cialis can fit into your daily routine.
What's covered in this article?
- 1. Available Cialis dosages
- 2. Cialis 10mg details
- 3. Cialis 20mg specifics
- 4. Cialis Daily 2.5mg and 5mg
- 5. Frequency of Cialis intake
- 6. What to do if your dose isn't effective
- 7. Comparison of Cialis and Viagra dosages
What Cialis dosages are available?
Cialis is available in the following dosages:
- 2.5mg: Small white pills marked with ‘2.5mg’.
- 5mg: Small light orange pills marked with ‘5mg’.
- 10mg: Larger light orange pills marked with ‘10mg’.
- 20mg: Larger dark orange pills marked with ‘20mg’.
The strength of Cialis indicates the concentration of the active ingredient, tadalafil, within each tablet. The lower dosages (2.5mg and 5mg) are generally suitable for daily consumption, while the higher dosages (10mg and 20mg) are typically intended for 'on-demand' use, taken at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity.
For most individuals, the usual starting dosage for Cialis when taken 'as needed' is 10mg, with a maximum of 20mg allowed in a single dose.
"Cialis is offered in four dosages. The lower doses of 2.5mg and 5mg are suitable for everyday use, while the 10mg and 20mg doses are meant for occasional use as needed."
Dr. Zenon Andreou, Medical Director
About Cialis 10mg
If you intend to have sexual activity up to three times a week, the recommended starting dosage is Cialis 10mg. Key considerations include:
- Cialis 10mg is taken on demand, at least 30 minutes before sexual activity.
- The effects can last up to 36 hours after ingestion.
- This dosage provides a balance between effectiveness and a reduced chance of adverse effects.
- Cialis 10mg can be acquired in various pack sizes: 4, 8, 12, 16, and 28 tablets.
About Cialis 20mg
If the 10mg dose does not yield desired results without significant side effects, consider increasing to 20mg. Important aspects include:
- Cialis 20mg is also taken as needed, at least 30 minutes before sexual activity.
- The duration of action is similar to that of the 10mg dosage, lasting up to 36 hours.
- This higher dosage may be effective but carries an increased risk of side effects compared to lower dosages.
- Cialis 20mg is available in the same pack sizes as the 10mg version.
About Cialis Daily 2.5mg and 5mg
If you engage in sexual activity more frequently than three times a week, daily dosing of Cialis may be beneficial. The daily dosages are:
- 5mg is the standard daily dosage, recommended to be taken at the same time each day.
- 2.5mg is an option for those experiencing side effects from the 5mg dose.
- Both daily dosages enable sustained effects, provided the medication is taken consistently.
- Cialis Daily is offered in pack sizes of 28 tablets.
How often can you take a dose of Cialis?
Cialis can be taken once a day, but never more than one tablet within 24 hours. If you find yourself taking higher on-demand doses (10mg or 20mg) more than three times a week, consider switching to the daily version of Cialis. This may be appropriate if:
- You regularly approach the 24-hour threshold for dosing.
- The effects of your current dosage diminish before you can engage sexually again.
What if my current dose isn’t working?
- If you are on the 2.5mg or 10mg dosage without experiencing side effects, discuss with your doctor the possibility of increasing the dosage.
- If you are on a daily 5mg regimen, a higher on-demand dosage may yield better results; consult your doctor first.
- If 20mg is ineffective, consider exploring other treatment options or combinations with your healthcare provider.
How do Cialis doses compare with Viagra ones?
Cialis and Viagra contain different active ingredients, making direct comparisons between their dosages impractical. For example, a 20mg dose of Viagra does not equate to 20mg of Cialis concerning efficacy or side effects.
Sources
- Cialis (2019) RxList Ltd [accessed 1 April 2020]
Patient Reviews
- Sildenafil
- Viagra
- Cialis
- Viagra Connect
- Avanafil
- Levitra
- Tadalafil
Further Reading on Erectile Dysfunction
- Alprostadil Cream and Injection
- How To Get And Stay Hard
- What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
- NHS Erectile Dysfunction Treatments
- Herbal and Illegal ED Treatments
- How To Fix Erectile Dysfunction In 5 Steps
- How To Get An Erection