What's the Best Cialis Dosage? Cialis Dosages Explained

Last reviewed: 10 Jan 2025

• 1. Available Cialis dosages
• 2. Details about Cialis 10mg
• 3. Explaining Cialis 20mg
• 4. Insights on Cialis Daily 2.5mg and 5mg
• 5. Frequency of Cialis doses
• 6. What to do if your current dose isn’t effective
• 7. Cialis vs. Viagra dosage comparison

Cialis is available in four different doses:

• 2.5mg: small white pills featuring the inscription ‘2.5mg’
• 5mg: small light orange tablets inscribed with ‘5mg’
• 10mg: larger light orange pills with ‘10mg’ inscribed
• 20mg: large dark orange tablets marked ‘20mg’

The dosage of Cialis pertains to the quantity of the active ingredient, tadalafil, present in each tablet. The lower doses of 2.5mg and 5mg are typically prescribed for daily intake. In contrast, the higher dosages of 10mg and 20mg are often taken on an as-needed basis or “on demand,” ideally at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity.

Typically, the standard starting dose for on-demand Cialis is 10mg, while 5mg is the recommended dosage for daily use of Cialis.

It is important to note that the maximum recommended dosage for erectile dysfunction in the US is 20mg. Consuming higher doses may elevate the risks of experiencing side effects, as they can significantly affect blood pressure levels and result in increased concentrations of the drug within your system.

Dr. Zenon Andreou, Medical Director

If you engage in sexual activity up to three times a week and are new to Cialis, the 10mg dose is often recommended as the standard initiation dose. Key details regarding Cialis 10mg include:

• Cialis 10mg is taken as needed (on demand), at least 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity.
• The effects can last up to 36 hours, offering additional flexibility for spontaneous sexual encounters.
• This dosage is typically effective for most individuals, with a lower risk of side effects when compared to stronger doses.
• Cialis 10mg is available in various packaging options from pharmacies.

If you have previously tried Cialis 10mg without achieving the desired results, and have not encountered any negative side effects, you may wish to consider increasing your dosage to 20mg. Important information about Cialis 20mg includes:

• Like Cialis 10mg, the 20mg dosage is taken on demand, at least half an hour before sexual activity.
• The duration of action remains consistent, lasting up to 36 hours.
• This higher dosage may be suitable for those requiring a more potent effect, but it may also elevate the chances of experiencing side effects.

If you anticipate engaging in sexual activity more than three times a week, choosing Cialis Daily may be the ideal option. This formulation comes in two doses, with 5mg being the standard choice. Key highlights include:

• Cialis 5mg is administered once daily at the same time each day for optimal results.
• By strictly adhering to the daily regimen, users can expect consistent efficacy.
• If the 5mg dose is effective but leads to side effects, users may opt for the 2.5mg dosage for a lower risk of adverse effects.

Regardless of the prescribed dosage, Cialis is approved to be taken up to once a day. It is advised not to exceed a single tablet within a 24-hour period. Consider transitioning to Cialis Daily if:

• Your usage of the higher on-demand doses (10mg or 20mg) exceeds three times weekly.
• You find yourself requiring multiple doses within a single 24-hour period.
• Your needs surpass the options provided by on-demand doses, and you desire more consistent access to the effects of the medication.

• If you’re taking 2.5mg or 10mg without adverse effects, it may be beneficial to consult your healthcare provider about the possibility of increasing your dosage for potentially improved outcomes.
• If you are currently prescribed a daily dose of 5mg, consider discussing with your healthcare practitioner the option of transitioning to a higher on-demand dosage.

If the 20mg dose of Cialis does not yield effective results, alternative medications may be necessary to explore, or adjustments to your lifestyle and additional therapies could be suggested. It is essential to avoid mixing Cialis with other ED treatments or exceeding the recommended dosages.

Cialis and Viagra comprise different active ingredients that elicit varying effects. Consequently, it is not possible to directly compare the dosages of Cialis with those of Viagra. For instance, a 20mg dose of Viagra does not equate to a 20mg dosage of Cialis in terms of effectiveness or potential side effects.

• Cialis (2019) RxList Ltd [accessed 1 April 2020]

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