Dr Simran Deo Medical Editor

Last reviewed: 10 Jan 2025

Choosing the right Cialis dose for the treatment of erectile dysfunction is crucial for achieving desirable results and enhancing sexual experience. The medication is available in four different strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg, each tailored to meet diverse needs based on one’s health condition, frequency of use, and individual response to treatment. It’s essential to understand how each dosage can impact your treatment plan.

This article aims to thoroughly outline the available Cialis dosages, their intended uses, and critical considerations, empowering you to make an informed and confident decision regarding your treatment.

What's on this page?

  • 1. What Cialis dosages are available?
  • 2. About Cialis 10mg
  • 3. About Cialis 20mg
  • 4. About Cialis Daily 2.5mg and 5mg
  • 5. How often can you take a dose of Cialis?
  • 6. What if my current dose isn’t working?
  • 7. How do Cialis doses compare with Viagra ones?
Two boxes of Cialis tablets; 1 x 20 mg and 1 x 10 mg on a green background

What Cialis dosages are available?

Cialis is available in the following dosages in the USA:

  • 2.5mg: small white pills, ideal for daily use.
  • 5mg: small light orange pills, also typically recommended for daily use.
  • 10mg: large light orange pills, meant for on-demand usage.
  • 20mg: large dark orange pills, for those requiring a stronger dosage for on-demand use.

The dosage reflects the amount of the active ingredient, tadalafil, which acts to enhance blood flow to the penis, facilitating an erection when combined with sexual stimulation. Lower doses (2.5mg and 5mg) are designed for daily administration, enabling spontaneous sexual activity; the higher doses (10mg and 20mg) are intended for situational use, taken at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity.

It's important to note that the maximum allowable dose for Cialis in the US is 20mg; doses beyond this threshold should only be prescribed under rigorous medical supervision due to an elevated risk of side effects.

"Cialis is available in a range of dosages. The lower doses can be taken daily to provide flexibility, while the higher doses are specifically for on-demand use."

About Cialis 10mg

The 10mg dose is often recommended as the standard starting point for new users of Cialis. It is particularly suitable for individuals who plan to engage in sexual activity up to three times a week:

  • Take as needed, ensuring to do so at least half an hour before sexual activity.
  • The effects of this dosage can last impressively up to 36 hours, offering a substantial window for sexual spontaneity.
  • This dosage is effective for many users and is associated with a lower risk of adverse side effects compared to higher doses.

About Cialis 20mg

If the 10mg dosage does not provide the desired efficacy, and there are no significant adverse effects, you may consider transitioning to the 20mg strength:

  • This should be taken similarly to the 10mg, at least half an hour before planned sexual activity.
  • This dosage also offers effects lasting up to 36 hours.
  • While it may work more effectively for individuals who find the lower dosage insufficient, it does carry a higher likelihood of side effects.

About Cialis Daily 2.5mg and 5mg

For those who anticipate sexual activity more than three times a week, a daily dosing regimen may be preferable:

  • The 5mg dose is typically the recommended daily dosage, which should be taken at the same time each day for best results.
  • Consistent daily use ensures that the medication remains effective, facilitating a more spontaneous sexual experience.
  • If you experience any side effects while taking 5mg daily, consider consulting with your healthcare provider to potentially adjust to a lower dose of 2.5mg.

How often can you take a dose of Cialis?

Each individual dose of Cialis can be taken once a day, with the recommendation to avoid exceeding one tablet in a 24-hour period.

Switching to a Cialis Daily regimen may be beneficial if:

  • You routinely find yourself needing higher doses on multiple occasions each week.
  • You notice that the effects of the on-demand dosages diminish before you expect to engage in sexual activity again.

What if my current dose isn’t working?

  • If you are currently taking 2.5mg or 10mg without experiencing side effects, it may be beneficial to discuss with your doctor about possibly increasing your dosage.
  • If you’re using a daily 5mg dose that is not yielding satisfactory results, transitioning to a higher on-demand dosage could be considered after consulting with your physician.

If the 20mg dosage does not meet your expectations, further alternatives may need to be explored. Always communicate openly about any changes in your treatment plan with your healthcare provider.

How do Cialis doses compare with Viagra ones?

It’s essential to understand that Cialis and Viagra contain different active ingredients, resulting in different pharmacological profiles and effects. As such, their dosages are not directly comparable. Variability in efficacy and tolerability can occur significantly between these medications.

Sources

  • Cialis (2023) RxList Ltd [accessed 20 March 2023]
  • Study on Tadalafil Efficacy [accessed 20 March 2023]

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
  • Is Penis Enlargement Possible?
  • What Causes Penis Pain?
  • What is Peyronie's Disease?
  • How Is Phimosis Treated?
  • Prelox - Does It Work & Is It Safe?
  • Do Sex Pills Work? Are They Safe?
  • Testosterone Boosters & Sex