Cialis Dosage: Strengths, Forms, And Usage Guide

Written by the UPGUYS Editorial Team

Published on April 18, 2022

Did you know that over 50% of adults in Canada used prescription medication during the past month? Almost one-quarter of Canadians used over three prescription medications. 

Have you wondered about what Cialis is and the Cialis dosage? Erectile dysfunction is a common problem that many patients wonder how they can best address it safely and effectively.

Before starting prescription medications, it helps to better understand dosages, overdose risks, and how to take them. We have put together a complete guide on Cialis and common Cialis dosages, so keep reading for more information!

In this article, we talk about the following:

• What is Cialis, and how does it work?
• How to take Cialis?
• What Cialis dosage should you use?
• What if you missed a dose of Cialis? 
• Is it possible to overdose with Cialis?
• How to know what's best for you?

What Is Cialis and How Does It Work?

Cialis is a prescription medication with the primary active ingredient: tadalafil. While Cialis is the brand name, tadalafil is the generic version, which can often cost less. 

It is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor that can vasodilate or relax blood vessels that flow into tissues. It has also been shown to relax the muscles in the bladder. In clinical studies, patients who took Cialis reported positive improvements after four weeks. 

Whether you take Cialis or tadalafil, the effects should be the same. So how does it stack up to other popular medications like Levitra? 

Read more: Levitra Vs Cialis: Which Is The Best For Me?

Levitra is another type of PDE5 inhibitor, but it is primarily used as needed. It absorbs more quickly (similar to Viagra) and can remain in your system for six hours.

While some patients have better outcomes with short-acting medications, you should always discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider first when debating between Levitra and Cialis. 

How To Take Cialis?

Cialis is prescribed as an oral tablet. Compared to its more famous cousin - Viagra - it is not largely affected by meals. Viagra is absorbed quickly and can work in as little as 30 minutes. 

Eating high-fat meals right before can slow its effectiveness. Cialis should not be as limited by your meals, but it is helpful to follow a healthy diet. You may have heard that you should avoid grapefruits or grapefruit juice when taking these medications. 

Avoid drinking grapefruit juice with Cialis.

Studies show that grapefruit can limit tadalafil metabolism and increase levels. Ultimately, this can act similarly to overdosing or taking too high of a dosage.  

What Cialis Dosage Should You Use?

Have you wondered how much Cialis to take? Ultimately, it comes down to your medical provider or practitioner. With any medication type, you should never adjust dosages independently. 

For most, you may start on a lower dosage to see its effects before your physician feels comfortable increasing it. Cialis dosage for erectile dysfunction ranges from 2.5 mg to 20 mg.

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The most common Cialis dose is between 2.5 to 5 mg. Ten mg to 20 mg dosages are considered 'on-demand' dosages. 

Most experts suggest that these are taken approximately 30 minutes before sexual activity. It takes up to two hours for it to fully work. If you feel like your dosage is ineffective, talk to your physician about medication or lifestyle changes. 

What if You Missed a Dose of Cialis?

Cialis remains in your system for longer than other similar medications (more on that later). In your worry to know how much Cialis to take for erectile dysfunction, you may wonder what do you do if you miss a dose?

If you aren't too far off on time, you can simply take your prescribed dose.

Cialis remains in your system for longer than other similar medications.

If you missed it by a long shot, wait for your next dose and do not double up. You should always aim to take your medications regularly, so consider setting up reminders or a pill organizer that you see first thing in the morning. 

Is It Possible to Overdose With Cialis?

Taking more than your Cialis-prescribed dose can cause some unwanted side effects. It can lead to serious health consequences, and you should seek medical attention immediately.

You could experience drops in blood pressure or have an allergic reaction. One of the most severe risks of taking too much Cialis is similar to any other erectile dysfunction medication on the market. The result is priapism. 

Read more: Cialis Drug Interactions

Priapism is an extended erection lasting more than four hours, and medication is the cause of almost one-quarter of this medical emergency.

Without medical intervention, it can cause permanent and irreparable damage to the penis. Ultimately, this could lead to long-term erectile dysfunction.

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Another overdosing mistake is believing you can combine Cialis with other similar medications. Viagra is another common medication that falls under the same drug classification as Cialis. It is a PDE5 inhibitor but does not last as long as Cialis.

Read more: Can I Get Cialis Over-the-Counter?

For comparison, Viagra can last up to eight hours, whereas Cialis can remain in your system for up to 36. Since they are both PDE5 inhibitors, taking both does not equate to better sexual activity. Instead, it puts you at a higher risk for severe health consequences. 

How To Know What's Best for You?

Have you wondered what Cialis dosage is best for you and how it works? Cialis is a common medication that many Canadians use, and if taken improperly, it can lead to serious side effects. 

If you've been dealing with erectile dysfunction problems and are curious about what to do next, we can help you get started on expert medical advice through UPGUYS. Are you ready? 

Check out our website and talk to one of our qualified physicians today!