Tadalafil is a generic medication widely utilized in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) as well as other conditions that affect adult male health. This medication is well-known for its effectiveness and is typically available in tablet form, allowing for convenient oral administration. Most often, it is consumed once daily, although the exact dosage may vary depending on the individual's specific medical needs and circumstances.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved tadalafil for the management of a variety of medical issues, including:
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), which refers to an enlargement of the prostate
- ED in conjunction with symptoms related to BPH
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
Continue reading to further understand tadalafil's recommended dosages, including its strengths, forms, and optimal practices for administration. For an in-depth examination of tadalafil and its uses, please consult this informative article.
Note: Always prioritize the guidance of your healthcare provider regarding the appropriate dosage, as the information provided here serves as a general guideline only.
Below is detailed information regarding the recommended dosages for tadalafil.
Tadalafil Form
Tadalafil is primarily available as an oral tablet, specifically designed for straightforward consumption to ensure ease of use.
Tadalafil Strengths
The medication is manufactured in several strengths to accommodate varying patient needs:
- 2.5 milligrams (mg)
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
Typical Dosages
Your healthcare provider may initiate treatment by prescribing a lower dosage of tadalafil, which can later be adjusted to maximize effectiveness. The primary objective is to determine the minimum effective dosage that delivers the desired therapeutic outcome.
The following provides an overview of typical dosages for specified conditions. It is imperative to adhere to the dosage indicated by your healthcare provider.
Dosage for Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Tadalafil can be offered in two distinct dosing regimens: daily or on an as-needed basis.
Once Daily: For patients taking tadalafil daily for ED, the initial dosage commonly starts at 2.5 mg. Should this dosage prove inadequate, healthcare professionals may increase the dosage to 5 mg, which is the recommended maximum for daily use.
As Needed: Those who utilize tadalafil on an as-needed basis typically begin with a dosage of 10 mg, to be taken around 30 minutes prior to planned sexual activity. If this dosage does not achieve the desired effect, it may be increased to a maximum of 20 mg, which should not be exceeded in a single 24-hour period.
If significant side effects are experienced at the 10 mg level, your healthcare provider may reduce the dose to 5 mg for future instances. Comprehensive information about potential side effects is accessible in the “Side Effects” section of this article.
For personalized dosage recommendations, always engage with your healthcare provider.
Dosage for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Tadalafil is also indicated to alleviate symptoms associated with BPH. The standard starting dosage is 5 mg, administered once daily, which is also the maximum dosage recommended for BPH treatment.
In certain cases, healthcare providers may suggest concurrent treatment with finasteride (Proscar) alongside tadalafil for BPH.
If you have concerns regarding your prescribed dosage, do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider.
Dosage for ED and BPH
For individuals diagnosed with both ED and BPH, the recommended initial dosage is 5 mg, to be taken once daily. This represents the maximum dosage recommended for those presenting both conditions.
If you have inquiries about your assigned dosage, please contact your healthcare provider.
Dosage for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
Tadalafil can also be prescribed for the treatment of PAH. The starting dosage for this condition is generally 40 mg, typically taken once daily, often as two 20 mg tablets consumed simultaneously. The maximum daily dosage for PAH remains 40 mg.
For any further questions about your dosage, engage with your healthcare provider for clarification.
How to Take Tadalafil
Tadalafil tablets should be swallowed whole and not divided, crushed, or chewed. You can take tadalafil with or without food, depending on your preference. If you find swallowing tablets challenging, refer to this article for practical advice on how to take this form of medication.
For patients taking tadalafil daily, it is best to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels in your system, ensuring optimal effectiveness.
If you are using tadalafil on an as-needed basis for ED, consult your provider to determine the best timing for your dose. Generally, it is advisable to take tadalafil before sexual activity, with the potential for sexual engagement starting from approximately 30 minutes up to 36 hours after ingestion.
Note: Do not take more than one dose of tadalafil within a 24-hour timeframe.
Length of Treatment
Tadalafil may be used for both short-term and long-term treatment, depending largely on the medical condition being addressed and your individual treatment protocol.
For BPH or PAH, treatment might be sustained over the long term. When tadalafil is used alongside finasteride for BPH, treatment duration can extend up to 26 weeks. Learn more about managing BPH and PAH with appropriate treatments.
In the case of erectile dysfunction, tadalafil may act as a temporary solution, particularly if the root cause is being addressed. Conversely, it may also be utilized as a long-term strategy within your overall management plan for ED.
Your healthcare provider will discuss the treatment plan with you in detail prior to initiating tadalafil, addressing any queries regarding treatment duration. For additional insights into tadalafil treatment, refer to this article.
Here you will find answers to some frequently asked questions regarding the dosage for tadalafil.
What should I do if I miss a dose of tadalafil?
If you miss a dosage of tadalafil, take it as soon as you remember. If the next scheduled dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. It is crucial that you do not double up on doses to compensate for a missed one. Moreover, avoid taking more than one dose of tadalafil within a 24-hour span.
To minimize the chances of missing doses, consider utilizing a medication reminder system, such as setting alarms or placing reminders in noticeable locations around your home, like your bathroom mirror or nightstand. Various applications can also assist in keeping track of your medication schedule.
Is there a 60 mg dosage of tadalafil?
As of now, the FDA has not approved a 60 mg dosage of tadalafil for any medical conditions. The maximum dosages recommended for tadalafil are as follows:
- ED: 20 mg as needed prior to engaging in sexual activity
- BPH: 5 mg administered once daily
- PAH: 40 mg taken once daily
For additional information regarding tadalafil dosages, refer to the “Tadalafil Dosage” section detailed above.
If you have questions or concerns regarding your tadalafil dosage, please reach out to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. If you believe a higher dosage is needed, consult with your physician to assess the appropriateness of any adjustments. Never alter your dosage without proper medical guidance.
ACCESSIBLE DRUG LABELS AND CONTAINERSMany pharmacies offer labels designed for accessibility, featuring larger print, braille, or QR codes that can be scanned to hear the instructions read aloud. If your pharmacy does not provide such options, your healthcare provider or pharmacist can often direct you to one that does.
If you experience difficulty opening medication bottles, discuss with your pharmacist the possibility of transferring tadalafil tablets into a more user-friendly container. There are also recommended accessibility tools available to aid in opening bottles.
It is essential to avoid exceeding the tadalafil dosage your healthcare provider has prescribed. Overdosing on certain medications can lead to severe side effects and potential health emergencies.
What to do if you take more than the recommended dosage of tadalafil
If you suspect that you have taken an excess of tadalafil, contact your healthcare provider without delay. Alternatively, you may reach out to America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or utilize their online resource. If you experience severe symptoms, it is crucial to call 911 or your local emergency services, or to seek immediate attention in an emergency room.
To learn more about the specific medical conditions tadalafil is approved to treat, please refer to this compilation of articles focused on ED and its associated treatments.
Disclaimer: While all efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of this information, it should not replace the expertise of qualified healthcare professionals. Always consult with your healthcare provider prior to commencing any medication.