It's crucial to adhere to your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions regarding this medication.
If you've received a private prescription for tadalafil, ensure that you thoroughly read the accompanying information that comes with your medicine. The strength and dosage recommendations can differ significantly based on individual health needs.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various strengths, specifically in 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
Typically, the recommended dose of tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction is 10mg, taken only when needed. It is important to note that you should not exceed 1 tablet in a 24-hour period.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage according to its effectiveness and your frequency of use.
The medication's effects can persist for more than 24 hours, so it is not advisable to take the higher doses of 10mg or 20mg every single day.
To ensure the medication works optimally, it is essential that you are sexually aroused when taking the tablet.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For treating an enlarged prostate, tadalafil is available in 2.5mg and 5mg tablets. The generally prescribed dose is 5mg, taken once daily.
If you are undergoing treatment for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the recommended dosage remains at 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
In cases of pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is offered in 20mg tablets.
The typical dosage is 40mg, which consists of two 20mg tablets taken once a day.
Should you have concerns related to kidney or liver function, your physician may opt to lower your initial dosage to either 10mg or 20mg.
Always swallow the tablets whole, accompanied by a glass of water or juice (except grapefruit juice, which should be avoided).
For erectile dysfunction, it is advisable to take one tablet at least 30 minutes prior to the anticipated sexual activity.
If you are taking tadalafil for benign prostate enlargement, you have the flexibility to take the tablet in either the morning or evening; however, consistency in timing each day is recommended for effectiveness.
Please be aware that the tadalafil tablets used for pulmonary hypertension can be relatively large, which may make them challenging to swallow for some individuals.
If you forget to take it
In the event of missing a dose, take the following steps:
- For benign prostate enlargement: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension: If you recall within 8 hours, take the missed dose. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your regular timetable.
Never take two doses at the same time nor attempt to compensate for a missed dose with an extra one.
Should you frequently forget doses, consider setting an alarm as a reminder. Furthermore, consulting a pharmacist for additional strategies to aid in remembering your medication schedule could be beneficial.
If you take too much
Excessive intake of tadalafil may lead to various side effects, including but not limited to:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- nasal congestion
- visual disturbances, such as blurred vision
Urgent advice needed: Please contact 111 immediately if:
- you inadvertently take more than your prescribed dosage of tadalafil
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for immediate assistance.
Important information:
In case of an emergency that requires you to go to A&E, avoid driving. Seek assistance from someone else or call 999 for an ambulance.
Always carry the tadalafil packaging or information leaflets, any remaining medication, along with a list of any other medications you are currently taking.