It's crucial to take this medication precisely as instructed by your healthcare provider. Accurate dosage is key to ensuring efficacy and safety. Never adjust your prescribed regimen without consulting your doctor first.
If you have a private prescription for tadalafil, review the information accompanying your medication attentively. The strength and dosage instructions may differ based on individual circumstances, emphasizing the necessity of personalized medical advice for optimal treatment outcomes.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is available in various strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, allowing for flexibility in treatment based on specific medical needs.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
Typically, the initial dose for erectile dysfunction is 10mg, taken as required, with a maximum of one tablet per day. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the proper timing and frequency to ensure effectiveness.
Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your response to treatment, which can vary significantly among individuals.
Due to the extended duration of effect (up to 36 hours), daily use of the 10mg or 20mg doses for erectile dysfunction is generally not recommended unless specifically prescribed.
For optimal results, sexual stimulation is necessary for the medicine to work effectively, so be prepared for this when planning sexual activities.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
For benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is typically prescribed at 5mg daily. This treatment can assist in alleviating symptoms without adversely impacting your sexual function, providing a dual benefit.
If you are being treated for both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, 5mg is the recommended daily dose, under the supervision of your healthcare provider.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
Tadalafil used for pulmonary hypertension comes in 20mg tablets, and the standard dosage is 40mg (two 20mg tablets) taken once daily. Regular monitoring by your physician is crucial during this treatment.
Patients with kidney or liver issues may need their starting dose reduced to 10mg or 20mg depending on their physician's guidance, highlighting the importance of personalized healthcare.
Tablets should be ingested whole with plenty of water or juice (avoid grapefruit juice), as this can affect how the medication works.
For erectile dysfunction, take one tablet at least 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity, ensuring adequate time for the medication to take effect.
For daily use targeting benign prostate enlargement, take the tablet at the same time each day, whether morning or evening is preferred, establishing a routine for better adherence.
If you forget to take it
If you forget a dose:
- Benign prostate enlargement – take it as soon as you remember and then continue your regular schedule.
- Pulmonary hypertension – take it within 8 hours if possible. If you remember after 8 hours, skip the missed dose and return to your usual schedule to avoid double dosing.
Never take two doses simultaneously or compensate for a missed one by taking extra, as this can lead to increased side effects.
If you frequently find it challenging to remember, consider setting an alarm or seek advice from a pharmacist for additional mnemonic strategies to maintain your medication schedule.
If you take too much
Excessive use of tadalafil can trigger side effects such as:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Indigestion
- Stuffy nose
- Visual disturbances (like blurred vision)
Urgent advice: Contact 111 for immediate assistance if:
- You have ingested more than the prescribed dose of tadalafil, as this could result in serious health complications.
Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for guidance on next steps.
Information:
If emergency care is required, do not drive yourself. Seek assistance from someone nearby, or call 999 to request an ambulance, ensuring your safety during a medical emergency.
Take the tadalafil package or leaflet, the remaining medication, and any other medicines you are taking to your healthcare provider to ensure they have complete information.