It is essential to follow the guidance of your healthcare provider when taking this medication. Adhering to the prescribed regimen will optimize the benefits of tadalafil while minimizing potential risks.
For those utilizing a private prescription for tadalafil, carefully review the accompanying information with your medication, as the strength and dosage recommendations may differ based on individual health conditions.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various strengths including 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, allowing for tailored dosing based on specific patient needs.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
The recommended starting dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction (ED) is typically 10mg taken as needed prior to sexual activity. Importantly, patients should not exceed a maximum frequency of 1 tablet per day.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage based on the effectiveness of the treatment and how frequently you are using the medication.
Tadalafil's effects can persist for more than 24 hours; thus, it is not advisable to use higher doses such as 10mg or 20mg on a daily basis.
To ensure optimal effects, sexual arousal is necessary for the medication to work effectively.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For patients dealing with benign prostatic hyperplasia, prescribed tadalafil is usually found in strengths of 2.5mg or 5mg, with the standard dose being 5mg administered once daily.
When treating both benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction, the effective dosing remains at 5mg daily.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
When utilized for pulmonary arterial hypertension, tadalafil is available in 20mg tablets.
The typical regimen consists of a daily intake of 40mg, which equates to two 20mg tablets.
Patients with kidney or liver impairment may have their initial dose reduced to 10mg or 20mg by their healthcare provider.
Administration should occur with a full glass of water or juice, avoiding grapefruit juice due to potential interactions.
For erectile dysfunction, it is recommended to ingest 1 tablet at least 30 minutes prior to planned sexual activity for optimal efficacy.
For the treatment of benign prostate enlargement, tablet administration can occur in the morning or at night; however, maintaining a consistent time daily is advisable.
It's worth noting that tadalafil tablets prescribed for pulmonary hypertension are relatively large in size, which may pose challenges in swallowing for some patients.
If you forget to take it
In the event of forgetting a dose:
- benign prostate enlargement – consume the missed tablet as soon as you remember, then continue with your regular dosing schedule
- pulmonary hypertension – attempt to take the dose within 8 hours. If you remember after this window, skip the missed dose and resume at your scheduled time
It is crucial to avoid taking two doses simultaneously. Do not take an additional dose to compensate for a missed one.
If you regularly miss doses, consider utilizing a reminder system, such as setting an alarm. Additionally, consulting a pharmacist for memory aids can be beneficial.
If you take too much
Exceeding the prescribed dosage of tadalafil may lead to several side effects, including but not limited to:
- headache
- dizziness
- indigestion
- nasal congestion
- visual disturbances (such as blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:
- you take more than your prescribed dose of tadalafil
Visit 111.nhs.uk or dial 111 for immediate assistance
Information:
Should you require an emergency visit, refrain from driving. Arrange for someone else to transport you or call 999 for an ambulance.
Always bring the tadalafil packaging or the leaflet, remaining tablets, and a list of any other medications you are currently taking.