It's essential to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, whether that is a physician or a pharmacist, to ensure optimal results.
If you possess a private prescription for tadalafil, please examine the accompanying information thoroughly. Variations in strength and dosage instructions may occur, so it’s vital to understand what you are taking.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in multiple strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The standard dosage of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction generally starts at 10mg, taken as needed. It is crucial that you do not exceed more than one tablet in a 24-hour period.
Your healthcare provider might adjust your dosage based on your individual response to the treatment and frequency of use.
Be aware that the effects of tadalafil can persist longer than 24 hours, so utilizing the 10mg or 20mg tablets daily is not advisable.
In order for the medication to function effectively, sexual stimulation is necessary.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For the treatment of enlarged prostate, tadalafil is available in 2.5mg or 5mg tablets, with the usual recommended dosage being 5mg once daily.
When treating both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction concurrently, the recommended dosage remains 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is provided in a 20mg tablet form.
The usual dose prescribed for this condition is 40mg, achieved by taking two 20mg tablets once a day.
If you have any issues with your kidneys or liver, your doctor may need to lower your initial dosage to 10mg or 20mg.
When taking your tablets, swallow them whole with a glass of water or juice, though it's advisable to avoid grapefruit juice as it may interact negatively.
For erectile dysfunction treatment, ensure you take 1 tablet at least 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity.
If you are using tadalafil for benign prostate enlargement, you have the flexibility to take your tablet either in the morning or evening, but consistency is key to efficacy—choosing the same time each day is recommended.
Tadalafil tablets designed for pulmonary hypertension can be relatively large and may pose a challenge for some individuals to swallow.
If you forget to take it
In the event that you forget a dose:
- benign prostate enlargement – take the dose as soon as you remember, then continue with your regular schedule
- pulmonary hypertension – if you remember within an 8-hour timeframe, take the missed dose. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and resume with your next scheduled dose.
Under no circumstances should you take two doses simultaneously, nor should you administer an extra dose to compensate for a missed one.
If forgetting doses is a frequent issue, consider setting an alarm as a reminder. You may also consult your pharmacist for additional strategies to help you remember to take your medication properly.
If you take too much
Overdosing on tadalafil can lead to several side effects, which may include:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- changes in vision (such as blurred vision)
Urgent advice: It is crucial to contact 111 urgently if:
- you have ingested more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
You can visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for further assistance.
Information:
If you find it necessary to go to an Accident & Emergency department, please do not drive yourself. It is advisable to enlist someone to drive you or to call 999 for an ambulance.
Remember to bring the tadalafil packaging or the informational leaflet that came with it, as well as any leftover medication and a list of any other medicines you may be taking.