Taking tadalafil as prescribed by your healthcare provider is essential for ensuring its effectiveness and your safety. It’s advisable to have regular consultations with your doctor to monitor your response to the medication and make necessary adjustments.
If you receive a private prescription for tadalafil 9mg, it is crucial to read the accompanying information leaflet thoroughly, as medication strength and dosage may differ from other prescriptions you may have had in the past.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is commonly available in several strengths, including 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets. The choice of dosage is influenced by the condition being treated and the patient’s individual response.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
For the treatment of erectile dysfunction, the recommended starting dose of tadalafil is 10mg, taken when needed prior to sexual activity. Patients should not exceed 1 tablet per day, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if further doses are required.
Your doctor may adjust the dose based on effectiveness and tolerability. If a 10mg dose is ineffective, your doctor may consider increasing the dose to 20mg.
The effects of tadalafil can last for over 24 hours, thus daily use of the higher doses (10mg or 20mg) is not advised. It’s important to understand that effective sexual arousal is necessary for the medication to work optimally.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is typically administered at a dose of 5mg taken once daily. This consistent regimen helps manage symptoms effectively.
In cases where both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction are treated, the recommended dose remains 5mg for synergy in therapeutic effects.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil is usually prescribed as 20mg tablets, which have been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
The common dosage for pulmonary hypertension is 40mg (two 20mg tablets) taken once daily, but adjustments may be required based on the patient's health status.
Patients with kidney or liver complications may require dosage adjustments, and it is crucial to discuss any pre-existing conditions with your healthcare provider.
The tablets should be swallowed whole with water or juice; grapefruit juice should be avoided as it may interact with the medication leading to increased side effects.
For erectile dysfunction, take the tablet at least 30 minutes prior to sexual activity, allowing sufficient time for the medication to take effect.
When taking tadalafil for prostate enlargement, it can be taken in the morning or evening; however, maintaining consistency in timing each day is recommended for best results.
Note that tadalafil tablets for pulmonary hypertension are relatively large and might be hard to swallow for some patients; discuss with your doctor if any concerns arise.
If you forget to take it
If you forget a dose of tadalafil:
- For benign prostate enlargement: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember and continue with your usual schedule, unless it's nearly time for your next dose.
- For pulmonary hypertension: It is important to take the missed dose within 8 hours if possible. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule to avoid taking an extra dose.
Never take two doses at once or an extra dose to compensate for a missed one, as this may lead to increased side effects or adverse reactions.
If forgetting doses is a frequent issue, consider setting reminders or consulting a pharmacist for strategies to help you remember your medication schedule.
If you take too much
Exceeding the recommended dose of tadalafil may lead to adverse effects, including:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Indigestion
- Stuffy nose
- Visual changes (such as blurred vision)
Urgent advice: If you experience symptoms of overdose, contact 111 for advice immediately if:
- You have taken more tadalafil than prescribed, or experience any severe effects.
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for further assistance to ensure your health and safety are protected.
Information: It is critical to be prepared should you need to visit the emergency department—do not drive; have someone take you or call for an ambulance if necessary.
Remember to take the tadalafil packaging or leaflet, any remaining medication, and a list of other medications you are currently taking with you for thorough assessments.