It's important to take this medicine as advised by a doctor or pharmacist to ensure both safety and effectiveness. Following the specific directions provided is crucial for achieving the desired results and minimizing potential side effects.
If you have a private prescription for tadalafil, ensure you read all the accompanying information that arrives with your medicine carefully. The strength of the tablets and dosage instructions can vary significantly between patients, so understanding your personal prescription is vital.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various strengths, specifically 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, allowing for flexibility in treatment according to individual patient needs.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The usual starting dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction is 10mg, taken when needed. It is imperative not to exceed more than 1 tablet in a 24-hour period, as this can lead to unwanted side effects.
Your prescribing doctor may decide to adjust your dosage up or down, based on how well the medication is working for you and the frequency of use. Each patient's response can differ, necessitating personalized adjustments.
Since the effects of tadalafil may last longer than 24 hours, it is generally advised against taking the 10mg or 20mg tablets on a daily basis unless specifically directed by your healthcare provider.
For optimal effectiveness, sexual excitement is necessary; simply taking the medication without this stimulus will not result in the desired outcome.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
When being prescribed tadalafil for benign prostate enlargement, it usually comes in 2.5mg or 5mg tablets, with a common dosage being 5mg once daily.
For patients dealing with both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the recommended dose remains at 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension indications, tadalafil is provided in 20mg tablets, which are often larger in size.
The standard initial dosage is typically 40mg, which equates to taking two 20mg tablets once each day.
In cases where patients have kidney or liver complications, healthcare professionals may lower the starting dose to either 10mg or 20mg to ensure safety.
Swallow the tablets whole, accompanied by a glass of water or juice, but avoid grapefruit juice as it can interact adversely with the medication.
For those taking tadalafil to address erectile dysfunction, it is advised to take one tablet at least 30 minutes prior to engaging in sexual activity.
If you are using tadalafil for prostate enlargement, the timing of your dose can be flexible; however, it is beneficial to take it at the same time daily to maintain consistent levels in your bloodstream.
Patients should be aware that tadalafil tablets for pulmonary hypertension are quite large and some individuals may find them challenging to swallow.
If you forget to take it
In the event that you miss a dose:
- benign prostate enlargement – take it immediately upon remembering, and then continue with your usual schedule
- pulmonary hypertension – take it within 8 hours of the missed dose, if possible. If you recall after this time frame, skip the missed dose and adhere to your regular dosing schedule.
Under no circumstances should two doses be taken at once, nor should you compensate for a missed dose by taking extra medication.
To help remember doses, setting an alarm or reminder can be beneficial, and consulting with a pharmacist for additional strategies to manage your medication schedule can provide further support.
If you take too much
Taking an excessive amount of tadalafil can lead to several side effects, which may include:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- changes to your vision (such as blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:
- you take more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
For immediate assistance, visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111.
Information:
If a visit to Accident & Emergency (A&E) becomes necessary, please do not drive yourself. It’s advisable to ask a friend or family member to assist you in getting there, or you can call 999 and request an ambulance if needed.
When seeking care, always bring the tadalafil packet or any leaflets that accompany it, along with any remaining tablets, and inform the healthcare professionals of all other medications you are currently taking.