What milligrams does cialis come in. Cialis Dosage Guide: Strengths, Usage, and Maximizing Effectiveness

19.10.202123.07.2023 by alexxlab

What milligrams does Cialis come in. How should Cialis be taken for erectile dysfunction. What is the recommended dosage of Cialis for BPH. How can you get the maximum effect from Cialis. What are the side effects of different Cialis doses.

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Understanding Cialis: Forms and Strengths

Cialis, also known by its generic name tadalafil, is a medication primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in adult males. As a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, Cialis works by relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow to specific areas of the body.

Cialis is available in tablet form and comes in four different strengths:

2.5 milligrams (mg)
5 mg
10 mg
20 mg

The variety of strengths allows healthcare providers to tailor the dosage to each patient’s specific needs and medical conditions.

Dosage Options for Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction, Cialis offers two distinct dosing regimens: occasional use and daily use. Understanding these options can help patients and their healthcare providers choose the most suitable approach.

Occasional Use Dosage for ED

For occasional use, patients typically start with a 10 mg tablet taken before sexual activity. Based on the effectiveness and tolerability, the dose may be adjusted to 5 mg or increased to 20 mg. It’s crucial to note that Cialis should not be taken more than once per day, and the maximum recommended dosage is 20 mg daily.

Why is there a maximum daily dose? Taking higher doses, such as 40 mg per day, significantly increases the risk of serious side effects, including dangerously low blood pressure and priapism (a painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer).

Daily Use Dosage for ED

For those who prefer a more spontaneous approach to intimacy, daily use of Cialis might be more suitable. The starting dose for daily use is usually 2.5 mg, taken at approximately the same time each day. If this proves ineffective, the dosage may be increased to 5 mg daily.

Cialis Dosage for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Cialis is not only effective for ED but also helps alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. For BPH treatment, the standard dosage is 5 mg once daily, typically prescribed for up to 26 weeks. Consistency is key, so it’s recommended to take the dose at the same time each day.

Combination Therapy: Treating ED and BPH Simultaneously

For patients experiencing both ED and BPH symptoms, Cialis offers a dual-action solution. The recommended dosage for this combined treatment is 5 mg once daily. It’s important to note that when using Cialis for both conditions, no additional doses should be taken for occasional ED treatment.

Maximizing Cialis Effectiveness: Tips and Considerations

To get the most out of your Cialis treatment, consider the following tips:

Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
If using daily Cialis, maintain a consistent schedule by taking it at the same time each day.
Avoid skipping doses or taking them late, as this can reduce the medication’s effectiveness.
Be patient – it may take some time to find the optimal dosage for your needs.
Communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any side effects or concerns.

Is timing important when taking Cialis? For daily use, timing in relation to sexual activity is not crucial. However, for occasional use, taking the medication 30 minutes to a few hours before anticipated sexual activity can help ensure its effectiveness.

Dosage Adjustments for Special Populations

Patients with certain kidney or liver conditions may require dosage adjustments to minimize the risk of side effects. In these cases, healthcare providers might prescribe lower doses or recommend occasional use instead of daily dosing for ED treatment.

How does kidney or liver function affect Cialis dosing? Impaired kidney or liver function can affect how the body processes and eliminates Cialis. Lower doses or less frequent dosing may be necessary to prevent the accumulation of the drug in the body, which could increase the risk of side effects.

Long-Term Use of Cialis: Safety and Considerations

Cialis is generally considered safe for long-term use when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional. Many patients continue to use Cialis as a long-term treatment option if it proves safe and effective for their condition.

Are there any risks associated with long-term Cialis use? While Cialis is generally well-tolerated, long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider. Regular check-ups can help assess ongoing effectiveness and monitor for any potential side effects or changes in health status that might affect treatment.

Understanding and Managing Cialis Side Effects

Like all medications, Cialis can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

Headache
Indigestion
Back pain
Muscle aches
Flushing
Nasal congestion

Most side effects are mild and tend to decrease with continued use. However, if side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider.

Can the dosage of Cialis affect the likelihood of experiencing side effects? Generally, higher doses of Cialis may increase the risk of side effects. This is why healthcare providers typically start with a lower dose and adjust as needed, balancing effectiveness with tolerability.

Interactions and Precautions: Ensuring Safe Cialis Use

Cialis can interact with other medications and substances, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking.

Some important interactions and precautions to be aware of include:

Nitrates: Cialis should not be taken with nitrates, as this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Alpha-blockers: Caution is advised when combining Cialis with alpha-blockers, as it may lead to orthostatic hypotension.
Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of side effects and may impair the effectiveness of Cialis.
Grapefruit juice: This can increase Cialis levels in the blood, potentially leading to increased side effects.

How can patients ensure they’re using Cialis safely? Open communication with healthcare providers is key. Discuss all medications, supplements, and lifestyle factors that might interact with Cialis. Regular follow-ups can help monitor the treatment’s effectiveness and safety over time.

Special Considerations for Certain Medical Conditions

Patients with certain medical conditions may need to exercise caution when using Cialis. These conditions include:

Cardiovascular diseases
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Liver or kidney problems
History of priapism
Retinitis pigmentosa

In these cases, healthcare providers may recommend alternative treatments or adjust the Cialis dosage to ensure safe and effective use.

Comparing Cialis to Other ED Treatments

While Cialis is a popular choice for ED treatment, it’s not the only option available. Other PDE5 inhibitors include sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra). Each medication has its unique characteristics in terms of onset of action, duration of effect, and potential side effects.

How does Cialis differ from other ED medications? One of Cialis’s distinguishing features is its long duration of action, which can last up to 36 hours. This has earned it the nickname “the weekend pill.” Additionally, the availability of a daily dosing option sets Cialis apart from some other ED treatments.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an ED Treatment

When deciding between Cialis and other ED treatments, consider the following factors:

Duration of action
Frequency of sexual activity
Potential side effects
Interactions with other medications
Personal preferences and lifestyle
Cost and insurance coverage

Discussing these factors with a healthcare provider can help determine the most suitable treatment option for each individual.

The Future of ED Treatment: Emerging Therapies and Research

While PDE5 inhibitors like Cialis have revolutionized ED treatment, research continues to explore new therapies and improvements to existing treatments. Some areas of ongoing research include:

Gene therapy for ED
Stem cell treatments
Novel drug delivery systems
Combination therapies
Personalized medicine approaches

What potential advancements in ED treatment are on the horizon? While it’s difficult to predict future breakthroughs, researchers are exploring ways to improve the efficacy, reduce side effects, and develop more targeted treatments for ED. These efforts may lead to more personalized and effective treatment options in the coming years.

The Role of Lifestyle Modifications in ED Management

While medications like Cialis play a crucial role in ED treatment, lifestyle modifications can also significantly impact erectile function. Some lifestyle changes that may complement medical treatment include:

Regular exercise
Maintaining a healthy weight
Quitting smoking
Limiting alcohol consumption
Managing stress
Eating a balanced diet

How can lifestyle changes enhance the effectiveness of Cialis? By addressing underlying health issues and improving overall cardiovascular health, lifestyle modifications can potentially enhance the effectiveness of ED medications like Cialis. Some patients may even find that these changes reduce their reliance on medication over time.

Navigating Insurance Coverage and Cost Considerations for Cialis

The cost of Cialis can be a significant factor for many patients. While some insurance plans cover ED medications, coverage can vary widely. Generic versions of tadalafil may offer a more cost-effective alternative for some patients.

What options are available for patients struggling with the cost of Cialis? Patients can explore several options to manage the cost of Cialis:

Discussing generic alternatives with their healthcare provider
Investigating patient assistance programs offered by the manufacturer
Exploring prescription discount programs or coupons
Comparing prices at different pharmacies, including online options
Discussing lower-cost alternatives or different dosing strategies with their healthcare provider

It’s important to work with healthcare providers to find a balance between effective treatment and manageable costs.

The Psychological Aspect of ED Treatment

While Cialis and other ED medications address the physical aspects of erectile dysfunction, the psychological component of ED should not be overlooked. Many men experience anxiety, stress, or relationship issues related to their ED, which can impact treatment effectiveness and overall quality of life.

How can patients address the psychological aspects of ED? Consider the following approaches:

Open communication with partners about ED and its treatment
Seeking counseling or therapy, either individually or as a couple
Practicing relaxation techniques to reduce performance anxiety
Educating oneself about ED to dispel myths and reduce stigma
Joining support groups to connect with others experiencing similar challenges

Addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of ED can lead to more comprehensive and satisfying treatment outcomes.

Cialis and Sexual Health: Beyond Erectile Dysfunction

While Cialis is primarily known for its role in treating ED and BPH, its effects on sexual health can be more far-reaching. Some patients report improvements in overall sexual satisfaction, confidence, and relationship quality when using Cialis as part of their treatment plan.

How does Cialis impact overall sexual health? By improving erectile function, Cialis can help restore confidence and reduce anxiety related to sexual performance. This can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable sexual experience for both partners. Additionally, the daily dosing option can provide a sense of spontaneity that some couples find beneficial.

The Importance of Regular Check-ups and Open Communication

Regardless of the chosen treatment approach, regular check-ups with healthcare providers are essential for managing ED effectively. These appointments provide opportunities to:

Assess the ongoing effectiveness of treatment
Monitor for any side effects or complications
Adjust dosages as needed
Discuss any new health concerns or medications
Explore new treatment options or complementary therapies

Open communication with healthcare providers and partners is crucial for optimizing ED treatment and overall sexual health.

Strengths, Form, When to Use, and More

Cialis (tadalafil) is prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It comes as a tablet that’s taken as needed or once per day, depending on the condition it’s treating.

Cialis is used in adult males.* It belongs to a group of drugs called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These drugs treat erectile dysfunction (ED) by relaxing blood vessels to increase blood flow into the penis. For symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), they relax the bladder muscles, allowing urine to flow more easily.

This article describes the dosages of Cialis, including its form, strengths, and how to take the drug. To learn more about Cialis, see this in-depth article.

Note: This article covers typical dosages of Cialis, which are provided by the drug’s manufacturer. But when using Cialis, always take the dosage that your doctor prescribes.

* In this article, we use the term “male” to refer to someone’s sex assigned at birth. For information about the difference between sex and gender, see this article.

Get answers to common questions about the dosage of Cialis.

What form does Cialis come in?

Cialis comes as a tablet that you take by mouth.

Available strengths of Cialis (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg)

Cialis tablets come in four strengths: 2.5 milligrams (mg), 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg.

What are the typical dosages of Cialis?

Typically, your doctor will start you on a low dosage. Then they’ll adjust your dosage over time to reach the right amount for you. Your doctor will ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

If you have certain kidney or liver problems, your doctor may prescribe a low dosage for you. This is because the usual dosage may increase the risk of side effects with your condition.

The information below describes the usual dosage recommendations for Cialis. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for erectile dysfunction (ED)

There are two dosage options when Cialis is used to treat ED: dosage for occasional use and for daily use.

Occasional use for ED

With occasional use, you’ll take Cialis only as needed. You’ll likely take one 10-mg tablet before having sex.

Depending on how well the 10-mg dose works for your ED, your doctor may adjust your dose. It may be decreased to 5 mg or increased to 20 mg. You’ll continue to take it only as needed before sex.

You should not take Cialis more than once per day. You also should not take more than the recommended maximum dosage of Cialis, which is 20 mg per day. Taking higher dosages of Cialis than this, such as 40 mg per day, raises your risk for serious side effects. Examples of these side effects include very low blood pressure and priapism (a painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer).

Daily use for ED

With daily use, you’ll take one dose of Cialis per day. You don’t need to time your dose to be taken before having sex. You should take it around the same time each day.

For daily use of Cialis for ED, the usual starting dosage is 2.5 mg per day. If this dosage isn’t effective for you, your doctor may increase your dosage to 5 mg per day.

Dosage for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

The usual dosage of Cialis for BPH symptoms is 5 mg once per day for up to 26 weeks. You should take your dose around the same time each day.

Dosage for ED and BPH

If your doctor prescribes Cialis to treat ED along with BPH symptoms, you’ll take Cialis once per day.

For this use, the usual dosage is 5 mg per day. You should not take any additional doses of Cialis for occasional use before sex.

You don’t need to time your dose to be taken before having sex. You should take it around the same time each day.

Is Cialis used long term?

Yes, Cialis is typically used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for you, it’s likely that you’ll use Cialis long term.

Dosage adjustments

If you have certain kidney or liver problems, your doctor may prescribe a lower dosage of Cialis for you. This is because, with your condition, the usual dosage may raise your risk for side effects from the drug.

Depending on how severe your kidney or liver problems are, your doctor may recommend occasional dosing instead of daily dosing to treat ED.

How can I get the maximum effect from Cialis?

To get the maximum effect from Cialis, take it exactly as prescribed.

If you’re using once-daily Cialis for either erectile dysfunction (ED) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), take your dose around the same time each day. This helps keep a consistent amount of the drug in your body to provide the maximum effect. If you forget to take doses, skip doses, or take doses late, the medication won’t work as well.

If you’re prescribed occasional (as needed) Cialis for ED, it’s best to take your dose at least 2 hours before having sex. This is because it takes an average of 2 hours for the drug to reach its highest level in your body.

Because this is an average, you may notice better effects if you have sex a little sooner or a little later than this 2-hour timeframe. In studies, Cialis improved erectile function as soon as 30 minutes to as long as 36 hours after a dose was taken. As long as you do not take more than the maximum daily dose, you can experiment with how long you wait to have sex after taking a dose.

If you have other questions about how to get the most from Cialis, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

If I take 5 milligrams (mg) of Cialis daily, how long does it take the drug to work?

Cialis starts working quickly. Studies show that the drug begins to work 30 minutes to 6 hours after you take your first dose. But it may take several days for the medication to reach its full effectiveness. If you don’t notice an improvement in your BPH symptoms or ED within a week of daily use, talk with your doctor. They may need to adjust your dosage.

Could I take an 80-mg dose of Cialis?

No, it’s not safe to take an 80-mg dose of Cialis. The maximum recommended daily dosage of Cialis is 20 mg per day if you take it as needed for ED. If you take Cialis daily, the maximum dosage is 5 mg per day.

Taking doses of Cialis above the recommended limit could lead to serious side effects, such as dangerously low blood pressure or priapism (a painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer).

What’s the typical Cialis dosage for a 70-year-old?

Cialis dosage is not based on your age alone. Instead, your doctor will prescribe the dosage that’s best for your condition. Before prescribing Cialis, your doctor may send you for a blood test to check how well your kidneys and liver are working. This is because they’ll take your kidney and liver health into consideration when determining your dosage.

For many people, their kidneys may not work as well as they age. So if you’re an older adult (ages 65 years and older), it may take longer for your body to break down and clear Cialis from your system. Older adults may also be more sensitive in how they react to Cialis, which may increase their risk for side effects.

If you’re 70 years old, your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage of Cialis. If it works well for you, you’ll probably continue taking a low dosage. If it doesn’t work well for you or you develop bothersome side effects, your doctor will adjust your dosage. The goal is to find the lowest dosage that effectively treats your BPH symptoms or ED without causing bothersome side effects.

If you have questions about what your Cialis dosage should be, talk with your doctor.

How do the dosages for Cialis and Viagra compare?

As ED treatments, both Cialis and Viagra can be taken occasionally (as needed) before sexual activity. The usual dosage for occasional Cialis use is one dose 2 hours before having sex. The usual dosage for occasional Viagra use is one dose 1 hour before having sex.

Cialis is also approved for once-daily dosing for ED, but Viagra is not. This is because the effects of Cialis on ED can last much longer than Viagra’s effects. One dose of Cialis can help improve erectile function for up to 36 hours. In comparison, Viagra’s effects can last up to 4 hours. But on average, its effects start to lessen 2 to 3 hours after you take a dose.

The typical dose for once-daily Cialis for ED is 2.5 milligrams (mg) to 5 mg. When used as needed for ED, the usual Cialis dose is 10 mg (with a maximum daily dose of 20 mg). The typical dose of Viagra for ED is 50 mg.

Talk with your doctor about whether Cialis or Viagra may be a better option for you.

You’ll take Cialis by mouth, either once per day or occasionally (as needed before sex).

The Cialis tablet should be swallowed whole. You can take it with or without food.

With once-daily Cialis, be sure to take it around the same time each day. When you’re taking Cialis once a day, there isn’t a best time to take Cialis. But taking your dose around the same time each day helps to keep a steady level of the drug in your body.

With occasional (as needed) use of Cialis, it’s recommended that you take your dose about 2 hours before having sex. This is because it takes an average of 2 hours for the drug to reach its highest level in your body.

If you have questions about taking Cialis, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not use more Cialis than your doctor prescribes. Using more than this can lead to serious side effects.

What to do in case you take too much Cialis

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken/used too much Cialis. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers, or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

The dosage of Cialis you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:

the type and severity of the condition you’re using Cialis to treat
your age
other conditions you may have, such as kidney or liver problems (see “Dosage adjustments” under “What is Cialis’s dosage?”)

If your doctor prescribes once-daily Cialis for your condition, it’s best to take it around the same time each day. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible.

However, you should not take more than one dose of Cialis per day. Doing so could raise your risk for side effects, such as low blood pressure or priapism (a painful erection lasting 4 hours or longer).

If you need help remembering to take your dose of Cialis on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone. A kitchen timer can work, too.

The sections above describe the typical dosages provided by the drug’s manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Cialis for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.

Remember, you should not change your dosage of Cialis without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Cialis exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage.

Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask your doctor:

How long should I give Cialis a chance to work before talking with my doctor about adjusting my dosage?
Is once-daily or occasional dosing of Cialis more effective for erectile dysfunction?
How can I tell if my Cialis dosage might need to be lowered?
Would a different dosage raise or lower my risk for side effects from this drug?

To learn more about Cialis, see these articles:

Cialis (tadalafil)
Cialis and Cost: What You Need to Know
Cialis Interactions: Alcohol, Medications, and Others

To get information on different conditions and tips for improving your health, subscribe to any of Healthline’s newsletters. You may also want to check out the online communities at Bezzy. It’s a place where people with certain conditions can find support and connect with others.

Q:

My doctor prescribed 10 mg of Cialis for occasional use to treat my erectile dysfunction (ED). I took one dose 2 hours before trying to have sex, but I still couldn’t get an erection. Should I try the same dose again before asking my doctor to increase my dose? Or if it didn’t help the first time, will this drug not work for me at all?

Anonymous

A:

Even though Cialis didn’t work this time, it doesn’t mean the drug won’t work at all or that the dose is too low. You can try taking the same dose but waiting longer before having sex.

The 2-hour timeframe is an average, so some people may notice better effects by having sex a little sooner or a little later after taking their dose. In studies, Cialis improved ED as soon as 30 minutes to as long as 36 hours after a dose was taken.

If the drug still doesn’t work after several attempts, or if you have questions or concerns about using Cialis, talk with your doctor.

The Healthline Pharmacist TeamAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

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Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Strengths, Form, When to Use, and More

This article describes the dosages of Cialis, including its form, strengths, and how to take the drug. To learn more about Cialis, see this in-depth article.

Note: This article covers typical dosages of Cialis, which are provided by the drug’s manufacturer. But when using Cialis, always take the dosage that your doctor prescribes.

* In this article, we use the term “male” to refer to someone’s sex assigned at birth. For information about the difference between sex and gender, see this article.

Get answers to common questions about the dosage of Cialis.