It's important to take this medicine as advised by a doctor or pharmacist. Following the prescribed instructions ensures that you achieve the best possible outcomes from your treatment.
If you have a private prescription for tadalafil, make sure to read the information that comes with your medicine very carefully. The strength and dosage instructions can vary significantly from one individual to another, based on specific health conditions and responses to the medication.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil comes as 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, each designed to address specific health needs.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The usual recommended dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction is 10mg when you need it. It is crucial to remember that you should not take more than one tablet a day, as exceeding this limit can lead to increased risk of side effects.
Your doctor may decide to increase or decrease your dose based on how well it works for you and how often you find yourself needing to take it.
The effects of tadalafil may last longer than 24 hours; therefore, you're not recommended to take the higher doses of 10mg or 20mg tables every day.
For the tablet to work properly, it is essential that you are sexually stimulated; otherwise, the medication may not produce the desired effect.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
Tadalafil prescribed for an enlarged prostate typically comes in 2.5mg or 5mg tablets. The usual dosage for this condition is 5mg, to be taken once daily to effectively manage symptoms.
If you are being treated for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the combined dose is maintained at 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For the treatment of pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is available in 20mg tablets specifically designed to manage this serious condition.
The usual dosage for this purpose is 40mg, which consists of taking two 20mg tablets, administered once every day.
If you have pre-existing kidney or liver problems, your doctor might prescribe a reduced starting dosage of 10mg or 20mg to mitigate potential adverse effects.
Swallow your tablets whole with a glass of water or juice (but avoid grapefruit juice as it can interfere with the medicine).
For erectile dysfunction, it's advisable to take 1 tablet at least 30 minutes prior to your anticipated sexual activity.
If you are taking tadalafil to address prostate enlargement, you can swallow your tablet in the morning or evening, although it's advised to take it at the same time each day for consistency.
Tadalafil tablets for pulmonary hypertension are relatively large and may prove difficult to swallow for some individuals; ensure to take them with a sufficient amount of liquid.
If you forget to take it
If you happen to forget to take your medication:
- benign prostate enlargement – take it as soon as you remember and then continue with your usual dosing schedule.
- pulmonary hypertension – if you remember within 8 hours, take it as soon as possible. If you realize after 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and proceed with your next dose as per the scheduled time.
Under no circumstances should you take 2 doses at the same time, nor should you take an additional dose to compensate for a forgotten one.
If you find that you regularly forget to take your doses, consider setting an alarm as a reminder. Additionally, consulting your pharmacist for tips and strategies to help remember to take your medicine could be beneficial.
If you take too much
Taking more than the prescribed amount of tadalafil can lead to several side effects, which include but are not limited to:
- 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
Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for immediate assistance
Information:
In the event that you need to go to A&E, do not drive yourself. Instead, ask a trusted individual to transport you or call 999 and request an ambulance.
Remember to bring the tadalafil packet or the informational leaflet inside it, any leftover medicine, and a list of other medications you may be currently taking.