It’s important to take this medication as directed by a healthcare provider. If you have a private prescription for tadalafil 2.5 mg, carefully review the accompanying information to understand the specific dosage instructions pertinent to your condition.
Dosage and Strength
Tadalafil is available in several strengths, including 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets.
Dose for Erectile Dysfunction
For erectile dysfunction, the typical starting dose of tadalafil is 10 mg, taken as needed. However, for patients who may be sensitive to medication side effects, a lower dose of 2.5 mg may be prescribed. It is crucial not to take more than one tablet per day.
Your doctor might adjust your dose based on how well the medication works and how frequently you need to take it. Note that the effects of tadalafil can last longer than 24 hours, making daily high doses impractical.
The medication requires sexual stimulation to be effective.
Dose for Benign Prostate Enlargement
For patients with benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is typically prescribed in the strengths of 2.5 mg or 5 mg. The usual dose is 5 mg taken once daily.
If you are being treated for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the recommended dose remains 5 mg a day.
Dose for Pulmonary Hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is available in 20 mg tablets. The standard dosage for this condition is 40 mg daily, which equates to two 20 mg tablets.
If you have liver or kidney issues, your physician may reduce the initial dose to 10 mg or 20 mg.
Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water or juice, avoiding grapefruit juice as it can interact with the medication.
If using tadalafil for erectile dysfunction, take the tablet at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity. For benign prostate issues, the timing is flexible, but it’s advisable to take it at the same time every day.
Tadalafil tablets for pulmonary hypertension are larger and might be challenging to swallow for some patients.
If You Forget to Take It
If you forget a dose of tadalafil:
- For benign prostate enlargement - take it as soon as you remember, then continue your usual schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension - take it within 8 hours of when you remember. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Never double up on doses or take an extra tablet to compensate for a missed dose. If you frequently forget to take your medication, consider setting an alarm or utilizing pill organizers to remember.
If You Take Too Much
Taking more than the prescribed amount of tadalafil can result in side effects. Common side effects from overdosing may include:
- headaches
- dizziness
- indigestion
- stuffy nose
- visual disturbances, such as blurred vision
Urgent advice: Contact healthcare services immediately if:
- you take more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for immediate assistance.
Important information:
In case of requiring emergency services, do not drive yourself. Seek assistance from someone or call for an ambulance.
Bring the tadalafil bottle or packet, the remaining tablets, and a list of any other medications you are taking.
Safety Information
It is essential to inform all healthcare providers that you are taking tadalafil. Particularly in emergency situations regarding heart health, your physicians must know the timing of your last dose.
While using tadalafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension, regular monitoring by your healthcare provider is crucial to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. Routine blood and urine tests may be necessary to identify any adverse effects.
Avoid taking tadalafil concurrently with other PDE5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil or vardenafil, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Be attentive to symptoms like prolonged or painful erections lasting over 4 or 6 hours, respectively, as these conditions require immediate medical intervention.
This medication does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections. Always utilize appropriate barriers and consult your healthcare provider with any inquiries.
Discuss any history of heart problems with your physician, as tadalafil can pose serious risks in patients with cardiovascular conditions.
Do not combine tadalafil with nitrate medications often prescribed for chest pain, and wait at least 48 hours post tadalafil before taking these drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption, as excessive intake can exacerbate side effects such as headaches or dizziness and may adversely impact heart health.
Report any sudden hearing or vision loss to your doctor urgently.
Avoid taking any medications or supplements without consulting your healthcare provider first.