From the Guidelines
Tadalafil (Cialis) is typically prescribed at 10mg taken as needed at least 30 minutes before sexual activity, with a maximum frequency of once daily. The dose may be adjusted to 5mg if 10mg is effective but causes side effects, or increased to 20mg if the response is insufficient. For those who anticipate frequent use (twice weekly or more), a daily dosing regimen of 2.5mg to 5mg may be more appropriate, taken at approximately the same time each day regardless of timing of sexual activity. Tadalafil works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which increases blood flow to the penis by relaxing smooth muscles in blood vessel walls. The medication remains effective for up to 36 hours, earning it the nickname "weekend pill," though sexual stimulation is still required for an erection. Patients should avoid taking tadalafil with nitrates (like nitroglycerin) due to dangerous blood pressure drops, limit alcohol consumption while using it, and inform their doctor about all medications they take to prevent interactions 1.
Some key points to consider when prescribing tadalafil include:
- The dose may need to be adjusted based on the individual's response and tolerance to the medication
- Tadalafil can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a high-fat meal may reduce its effectiveness
- Patients with certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, may require a lower dose or more frequent monitoring
- Tadalafil is not recommended for use in patients with a history of priapism or those who have experienced a sudden loss of vision or hearing 1.
It's also important to note that tadalafil is not approved for use in children or adolescents, and its safety and efficacy in these populations have not been established. Additionally, tadalafil should not be used in combination with other PDE5 inhibitors or certain other medications, such as nitrates or alpha-blockers, due to the risk of adverse interactions.
From the FDA Drug Label
1 Tadalafil Tablets for Use as Needed for Erectile Dysfunction Do not split tadalafil tablets; entire dose should be taken. • The recommended starting dose of tadalafil tablets for use as needed in most patients is 10 mg, taken prior to anticipated sexual activity. • The dose may be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg, based on individual efficacy and tolerability The maximum recommended dosing frequency is once per day in most patients.
2 Tadalafil Tablets for Once Daily Use for Erectile Dysfunction • The recommended starting dose of tadalafil tablets for once daily use is 2.5 mg, taken at approximately the same time every day, without regard to timing of sexual activity. • The tadalafil tablets dose for once daily use may be increased to 5 mg, based on individual efficacy and tolerability.
The recommended dosage and usage for Tadalafil (Cialis) are as follows:
- For use as needed: The recommended starting dose is 10 mg, taken prior to anticipated sexual activity, with a maximum dosing frequency of once per day. The dose may be increased to 20 mg or decreased to 5 mg based on individual efficacy and tolerability.
- For once daily use: The recommended starting dose is 2.5 mg, taken at approximately the same time every day, without regard to timing of sexual activity. The dose may be increased to 5 mg based on individual efficacy and tolerability. 2
From the Research
Recommended Dosage and Usage for Tadalafil (Cialis)
The recommended dosage and usage for Tadalafil (Cialis) can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated.
- The typical starting dose for Tadalafil is 10mg, taken as needed, prior to anticipated sexual activity 3.
- However, some studies have shown that a daily dose of 5mg can be effective in improving erectile function and can be taken once daily, regardless of when sexual activity is planned 4, 5.
- In some cases, the dose may be increased to 20mg or decreased to 5mg, depending on the individual's response to the medication and any side effects that may occur 6, 3.
- It's also important to note that Tadalafil can be taken with or without food, and it's recommended to take it at the same time every day if taking it daily 5.
Efficacy and Safety of Tadalafil
Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
- One study found that Tadalafil 5mg and 10mg taken once daily were well tolerated and significantly improved erectile function in men with ED 4.
- Another study found that Tadalafil 20mg taken on demand was effective in improving erectile function and was well tolerated in men with mild-to-severe ED 3.
- Long-term studies have also shown that Tadalafil is safe and effective when taken daily for up to 2 years 6, 5.
Adverse Events and Interactions
As with any medication, Tadalafil can cause adverse events and interact with other medications.
- Common adverse events associated with Tadalafil include headache, dyspepsia, back pain, and nasopharyngitis 4, 6, 3.
- It's also important to note that Tadalafil can interact with other medications, such as nitrates and alpha-blockers, and should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions 6, 5.