Tadalafil, known by its brand name Cialis, is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. It is prescribed primarily for erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition where men have difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. Tadalafil also addresses benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlarged prostate causing urinary issues. This medication is available by prescription only, and its effectiveness can vary significantly.
Understanding Standard Tadalafil Doses
Tadalafil is available in dosages established through clinical trials. Common strengths include:
2.5 mg
5 mg
10 mg
20 mg tablets
For daily use to treat ED or BPH, typical doses are 2.5 mg or 5 mg. For on-demand use, taken prior to sexual activity, doses usually range from 10 mg to 20 mg.
A 9 mg dose of tadalafil is not a standard strength. A 9 mg dose would likely be a compounded prescription, custom-prepared by a pharmacy. This occurs when a healthcare provider determines a precise, individualized dose is needed, falling between standard increments. Compounded medications meet unique patient needs but are not typically FDA-approved like mass-produced drugs.
Factors Affecting Tadalafil Efficacy
Tadalafil’s effectiveness depends on several factors, making “enough” subjective. The severity of the underlying condition, such as ED or BPH, plays a significant role. For instance, more severe ED may require a higher dose or elicit a different response. Individual physiological responses also vary based on how each person’s body metabolizes and reacts to the medication.
Other medical conditions can influence tadalafil’s effectiveness. Conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or hormonal imbalances can impact erectile function and the medication’s ability to facilitate an erection. Concurrent medications can interact with tadalafil, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing side effects. A healthcare provider needs to know all medications a patient is taking to assess potential interactions.
Lifestyle factors, including alcohol consumption and smoking, can affect tadalafil’s efficacy. Heavy alcohol intake can increase side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure, diminishing desired effects. Smoking can contribute to vascular issues underlying ED, making treatment less effective. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and reducing stress are lifestyle changes that can improve erectile function and enhance the medication’s benefits.
Addressing Insufficient Tadalafil Effectiveness
If a current tadalafil dose, including a 9 mg compounded dose, does not provide the desired effect, consult a healthcare professional. Self-adjusting the dosage or combining it with other medications without medical guidance is unsafe. A doctor can re-evaluate the diagnosis to confirm tadalafil is the most appropriate treatment for the underlying cause.
The healthcare provider might adjust the tadalafil dosage if medically appropriate and the patient’s health allows. For example, a lower daily dose might take several days to build up in the system for full effectiveness. If dosage adjustments are insufficient or inappropriate, the doctor may explore alternative treatment options. These include:
Different PDE5 inhibitors
Other oral medications
Penile injections
Vacuum restriction devices
Surgical options like penile implants
Open communication with the prescribing doctor is crucial to ensure the safest and most effective treatment plan.
Key Safety Information for Tadalafil
Tadalafil can cause common and more serious side effects. Common side effects include headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, and stuffy nose. These are usually mild and diminish over time.
More serious, though rare, side effects include:
A prolonged erection lasting more than four hours (priapism)
Sudden decrease or loss of vision
Sudden decrease or loss of hearing
If any serious side effects occur, immediate medical attention is necessary.
Tadalafil has important contraindications, meaning situations where it should not be used. It must not be taken with nitrate medications, often prescribed for chest pain, as this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Similarly, it should not be used with riociguat, a medication for pulmonary hypertension. Patients should always provide their doctor with a complete medical history, including all current medications and supplements, to ensure tadalafil is a safe option.