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

20.10.202123.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the available strengths of Cialis. How should Cialis be taken for erectile dysfunction. What is the recommended dosage of Cialis for benign prostatic hyperplasia. How can you maximize the effectiveness of Cialis. What are the potential side effects of Cialis.

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Understanding Cialis: A Comprehensive Overview

Cialis, known by its generic name tadalafil, is a medication prescribed to adult males for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). As a member of the phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor class of drugs, Cialis works by relaxing blood vessels to increase blood flow to the penis for ED treatment. For BPH symptoms, it relaxes bladder muscles to improve urine flow.

The medication comes in tablet form and is available in four different strengths: 2.5 milligrams (mg), 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg. The dosage prescribed depends on the condition being treated, the individual’s response to the medication, and any existing health conditions.

Cialis Dosage for Erectile Dysfunction: Occasional vs. Daily Use

When treating erectile dysfunction, Cialis can be prescribed for either occasional or daily use. The dosage and administration schedule differ between these two approaches:

Occasional Use for ED

Starting dose: 10 mg taken as needed before sexual activity
Dose may be adjusted to 5 mg or 20 mg based on effectiveness and tolerability
Should not be taken more than once per day
Maximum recommended dose: 20 mg per day

Daily Use for ED

Starting dose: 2.5 mg taken once daily
May be increased to 5 mg daily if needed
Taken at approximately the same time each day
No need to time dose with sexual activity

Is there a difference in effectiveness between occasional and daily use? While both regimens can be effective, daily use may provide more spontaneity in sexual activity as the medication is always in the system. However, the choice between occasional and daily use depends on individual preferences and doctor recommendations.

Cialis for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Dosage and Duration

For the treatment of BPH symptoms, Cialis is typically prescribed as follows:

Usual dosage: 5 mg once daily
Taken at approximately the same time each day
Treatment duration: Up to 26 weeks

Can Cialis treat both ED and BPH simultaneously? Yes, for individuals experiencing both conditions, Cialis can be prescribed to address both ED and BPH symptoms concurrently. In such cases, the typical dosage is 5 mg once daily, taken at the same time each day. No additional doses for occasional use before sexual activity should be taken.

Maximizing the Effectiveness of Cialis

To ensure you get the maximum benefit from Cialis, consider the following tips:

Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor
For daily use, take Cialis at approximately the same time each day
Avoid missing doses or taking them late, as this can reduce effectiveness
Do not exceed the recommended maximum dosage of 20 mg per day
Inform your doctor of any side effects or changes in effectiveness

How long does it take for Cialis to start working? For occasional use, Cialis typically begins to work within 30 minutes to 2 hours after taking the dose. With daily use, it may take 3 to 5 days to reach a steady state in the body for optimal effectiveness.

Dosage Adjustments for Special Populations

Certain health conditions may necessitate dosage adjustments to ensure safety and effectiveness:

Kidney or Liver Problems

Lower dosages may be prescribed to reduce the risk of side effects
Occasional dosing may be recommended instead of daily use for ED treatment
Dosage adjustments are based on the severity of kidney or liver issues

Why are dosage adjustments necessary for kidney and liver problems? These organs play crucial roles in metabolizing and eliminating medications from the body. Impaired function can lead to higher concentrations of Cialis in the bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While Cialis is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects:

Common side effects: Headache, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, nasal congestion, indigestion
Serious side effects: Sudden vision or hearing loss, priapism (erection lasting more than 4 hours), severe drop in blood pressure

What should you do if you experience side effects? If you experience any concerning side effects, particularly those listed as serious, contact your healthcare provider immediately. For mild side effects, discuss with your doctor whether to continue the medication or adjust the dosage.

Long-Term Use of Cialis: Safety and Considerations

Cialis is often prescribed for long-term use in the treatment of ED and BPH. When used as directed and under medical supervision, it can be a safe and effective long-term treatment option. However, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor for any changes in effectiveness or potential side effects.

Are there any risks associated with long-term use of Cialis? While long-term use is generally considered safe, it’s important to maintain open communication with your doctor. They can assess ongoing benefits and risks, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Interactions and Contraindications

Cialis may interact with certain medications and medical conditions. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and health conditions before starting Cialis treatment. Some important interactions and contraindications include:

Nitrates: Combining Cialis with nitrate medications can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure
Alpha-blockers: Caution is needed when using Cialis with alpha-blockers due to potential blood pressure effects
Grapefruit juice: Can increase Cialis levels in the blood, potentially leading to side effects
Cardiovascular conditions: Individuals with certain heart conditions may not be suitable candidates for Cialis

How can you minimize the risk of drug interactions? Always provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all medications and supplements you’re taking. Follow their guidance on timing and dosage, and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly.

Lifestyle Factors and Cialis Effectiveness

While Cialis can be highly effective in treating ED and BPH symptoms, certain lifestyle factors can influence its effectiveness:

Healthy diet: A balanced diet supports overall cardiovascular health, which is crucial for sexual function
Regular exercise: Physical activity can improve blood flow and overall sexual health
Stress management: High stress levels can impact sexual performance and urinary symptoms
Limiting alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can interfere with Cialis effectiveness and increase side effect risks
Smoking cessation: Smoking can negatively impact blood flow and sexual function

Can lifestyle changes enhance the effectiveness of Cialis? Yes, adopting a healthy lifestyle can complement the effects of Cialis. By improving overall health and addressing underlying factors contributing to ED or BPH, you may experience better results from the medication.

Comparing Cialis to Other ED Treatments

Cialis is one of several PDE5 inhibitors used to treat erectile dysfunction. While they work through similar mechanisms, there are some key differences:

Onset of action: Cialis typically starts working within 30 minutes to 2 hours
Duration of effect: Cialis can remain effective for up to 36 hours, longer than some other ED medications
Food interactions: Cialis absorption is not significantly affected by food intake, unlike some other ED drugs
Dosing options: Cialis offers both daily and as-needed dosing options

How does Cialis compare to Viagra in terms of effectiveness? Both medications are effective for treating ED, but individual responses may vary. Cialis’s longer duration of action and option for daily dosing may provide more flexibility for some users. However, the best choice depends on individual factors and should be determined in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions

There are several common questions and misconceptions about Cialis that deserve clarification:

Does Cialis Increase Libido?

Cialis does not directly increase sexual desire or libido. It works by improving blood flow to enable erections in response to sexual stimulation. However, by improving confidence in sexual performance, it may indirectly contribute to increased sexual interest.

Can Cialis Be Used for Premature Ejaculation?

While Cialis is not specifically approved for treating premature ejaculation, some studies suggest it may help in certain cases. However, its primary use remains the treatment of erectile dysfunction and BPH symptoms.

Is It Safe to Use Cialis for Recreational Purposes?

Using Cialis without a medical need or prescription is not recommended. It can lead to unnecessary side effects and may mask underlying health conditions that require attention. Always use Cialis under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Can Women Use Cialis?

Cialis is not approved for use in women. While some studies have explored its potential for treating female sexual arousal disorder, more research is needed to establish its safety and efficacy in women.

Are there any natural alternatives to Cialis? While some herbal supplements claim to improve sexual function, their effectiveness and safety are not well-established. It’s important to discuss any alternative treatments with a healthcare provider before trying them.

Future Developments and Research

The field of erectile dysfunction and BPH treatment continues to evolve. Ongoing research into Cialis and related medications focuses on several areas:

New formulations: Researchers are exploring alternative delivery methods for tadalafil, such as topical gels or sublingual tablets
Combination therapies: Studies are investigating the potential benefits of combining Cialis with other treatments for enhanced effectiveness
Long-term effects: Continued research on the long-term safety and efficacy of daily Cialis use
Expanded indications: Exploration of Cialis’s potential benefits in other medical conditions

What new developments can we expect in ED and BPH treatment? While specific predictions are challenging, ongoing research aims to improve treatment options, minimize side effects, and potentially expand the use of PDE5 inhibitors like Cialis to other medical conditions. Staying informed about these developments can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment options.

Patient Education and Support

Effective use of Cialis goes beyond simply taking the medication as prescribed. Patient education and support play crucial roles in maximizing treatment outcomes:

Understanding the Medication

Know how Cialis works and what to expect
Be aware of potential side effects and when to seek medical attention
Understand the importance of following dosage instructions

Open Communication with Healthcare Providers

Discuss any concerns or questions about the medication
Report changes in effectiveness or new side effects
Be honest about lifestyle factors that may impact treatment

Addressing Psychological Factors

Recognize the role of stress, anxiety, and relationship issues in sexual health
Consider counseling or therapy as complementary treatments when appropriate

How can patients actively participate in their treatment plan? By staying informed, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, and addressing both physical and psychological aspects of sexual health, patients can take an active role in optimizing their treatment outcomes with Cialis.

Navigating Insurance Coverage and Cost Considerations

The cost of Cialis can be a concern for many patients. Understanding insurance coverage and exploring cost-saving options can help make treatment more accessible:

Insurance Coverage

Check with your insurance provider about coverage for Cialis or generic tadalafil
Be aware of any prior authorization requirements or quantity limits
Consider appealing coverage denials if Cialis is deemed medically necessary

Generic Options

Generic tadalafil is available and typically less expensive than brand-name Cialis
Discuss with your healthcare provider if switching to generic is appropriate

Patient Assistance Programs

Explore manufacturer-sponsored programs that may offer discounts or free medication
Look into non-profit organizations that provide assistance for ED medications

Are there strategies to reduce the cost of Cialis treatment? In addition to exploring insurance coverage and generic options, consider discussing with your healthcare provider the possibility of splitting higher-dose tablets (if appropriate) or using a daily dosing regimen, which may be more cost-effective in some cases.

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.