It's important to take this medicine as advised by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist. This guidance is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
If you hold a private prescription for tadalafil, it's essential to thoroughly read the accompanying information leaflet. The specified strength and dosage instructions can differ based on your individual health needs.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various strengths, specifically in 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, to cater to different medical conditions.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
For treating erectile dysfunction, the recommended starting dose of tadalafil is typically 10mg, which should be taken as required. It’s crucial that you do not exceed more than one tablet in a 24-hour period.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage, either increasing or decreasing it based on your response to the treatment and how frequently you take it.
Be aware that the effects of tadalafil can last for over 24 hours, which is why daily intake of the 10mg or 20mg tablets is not advised.
For optimal efficacy, sexual stimulation is necessary for the tablet to work effectively.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For the management of benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is available in 2.5mg or 5mg formulations. The standard dosage is 5mg, administered once daily.
Should you be receiving treatment for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the dosage is generally maintained at 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
Tadalafil for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension is offered as 20mg tablets.
The advised dose in this instance is typically 40mg, which translates to two separate 20mg tablets taken once a day.
If you suffer from kidney or liver issues, your physician may decide to reduce your starting dosage to either 10mg or 20mg for safety reasons.
Always swallow the tablets whole, accompanied by a sufficient amount of water or juice (not grapefruit juice, as it may interact with the medication).
For those utilizing tadalafil for erectile dysfunction, it's advisable to take one tablet at least 30 minutes before the anticipated sexual activity.
When taking tadalafil for prostate enlargement, you may choose to take your tablet either in the morning or evening, but consistency in timing each day is recommended for optimal results.
Note that tadalafil tablets prescribed for pulmonary hypertension are often larger in size, which may present challenges during swallowing.
If you forget to take it
In the event of a missed dose, the course of action depends on your specific condition:
- For benign prostate enlargement – administer the forgotten dose as soon as you recall, and then continue your usual schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension – try to take it within 8 hours of the missed dose. If it’s been longer than that, skip the missed dose and proceed with your next dose as per normal.
Under no circumstances should you take two doses simultaneously. Additionally, avoid taking an extra dose to compensate for a missed one.
If forgetting doses is common for you, setting an alarm as a reminder can be beneficial. Consulting with a pharmacist for further strategies on maintaining your medication schedule may also be useful.
If you take too much
Overdosing on tadalafil can lead to several adverse effects, including but not limited to:
- intense headache
- dizziness
- indigestion or stomach discomfort
- nasal congestion
- alterations in vision (such as blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for immediate assistance if:
- you have exceeded your prescribed dose of tadalafil
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for urgent medical advice.
Important information:
In case you need to go to Accident and Emergency (A&E), do not attempt to drive yourself. It is advisable to have someone drive you there or alternatively, call 999 for an ambulance.
Remember to bring the tadalafil packet or leaflet, any remaining tablets, and all other medications you are currently taking.