Tadalafil is a medication commonly prescribed for erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. This medication is essential to take precisely as directed by your healthcare provider to maximize its efficacy and reduce the risk of side effects.
If you have a private prescription for tadalafil, it is crucial to read the accompanying information regarding your specific dosage and strength, as these can vary greatly based on the individual's health condition and response to treatment.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, allowing for flexibility in treatment depending on the specific condition being addressed.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The recommended starting dosage for tadalafil when treating erectile dysfunction is often 10mg. It is designed to be taken as needed, and users should not exceed one tablet in a 24-hour period.
Your physician has the authority to adjust your dosage based on how well you respond to the medication, either increasing or decreasing it as necessary to achieve optimal results.
It is important to note that the effects of tadalafil may last for more than 24 hours; therefore, the daily use of either the 10mg or 20mg tablets is not advisable.
For best results, sexual stimulation is required while using tadalafil. The medication is not an aphrodisiac and does not work without sexual arousal.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For individuals diagnosed with benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is available in lower doses of 2.5mg or 5mg, with the most common prescription being 5mg taken once daily.
If a patient requires treatment for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction concurrently, the recommended dosage remains at 5mg taken daily.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil comes in 20mg tablets, with a standard dosage of two 20mg tablets (a total of 40mg) taken once a day.
Individuals suffering from kidney or liver issues may need a lower starting dose, typically 10mg or 20mg, to mitigate the risk of adverse effects.
The tablets should be swallowed whole, accompanied by water or juice. Caution should be exercised to avoid grapefruit juice, as it can adversely interact with tadalafil.
For erectile dysfunction treatment, take the tablet at least 30 minutes before anticipated sexual activity to ensure effectiveness.
When prescribed for benign prostate enlargement, you can take the tablet at any time throughout the day; however, it is best to maintain consistency by taking it at the same time each day.
Patients should be mindful that tadalafil tablets for pulmonary hypertension can be relatively large, making them challenging for some individuals to swallow.
If you forget to take it
If you miss a dose, adhere to the following guidelines based on your prescribed condition:
- For benign prostate enlargement: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, and then proceed with your regular dosing schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension: If feasible, take the missed dose within 8 hours. If more than 8 hours have elapsed, skip the missed dose and resume the normal dosing schedule.
Never take two doses simultaneously or double up to make up for a missed dose, as this could lead to adverse effects.
If you frequently forget your medication, consider setting a reminder or discussing with your pharmacist for strategies to ensure you remember to take your doses.
If you take too much
Taking an overdose of tadalafil can lead to several side effects, which may include:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- vision changes (e.g., blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for guidance immediately if:
- you have ingested more than your prescribed amount of tadalafil
For immediate assistance, visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111.
Important information:
In case of a medical emergency, do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital. Instead, enlist the help of someone who can drive you, or contact emergency services by calling 999 for an ambulance.
Always carry the tadalafil packaging or information leaflet, any remaining tablets, and a complete list of all medications you are currently taking to provide to medical personnel.