Why taking 40 mg of tadalafil is dangerous for erectile dysfunction
For erectile dysfunction (ED), the maximum approved dose of tadalafil (the active ingredient in Cialis) is limited within a 24-hour period. Doubling this dose by taking 2 tablets of tadalafil 20 mg increases the amount of medication in your system beyond a safe level for treating ED. Here's why this is so risky:
Exceeding the therapeutic threshold
When treating ED, there is a maximum dose of tadalafil considered appropriate for most people. Taking more won't make the medication more effective, but it will increase the likelihood and severity of side effects. This is because tadalafil's effect on blood vessels doesn't increase proportionally with the dosage once a certain point is reached. Instead, the risk of adverse reactions escalates significantly with higher concentrations of the drug in the body.
Risk of severe side effects
Tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor that works by relaxing the smooth muscles and increasing blood flow to specific parts of the body. While effective, this process can cause widespread effects on the body, especially at higher doses. These effects can become dangerous when the dose is too high. Higher doses are associated with an increased risk of severe, potentially life-threatening side effects.
Medical conditions requiring specific dosages
It is important to understand that tadalafil is used to treat different medical conditions, and the approved dosages vary considerably for each. While 40 mg is never approved for ED without medical oversight, it is sometimes used for a different, specific condition. This is a critical distinction that should not be confused when taking the medication.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The dosage is typically limited within a 24-hour period.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): A specific dosage, often taken as two tablets at the same time, is used under strict medical supervision due to the seriousness of the condition and the potential risks involved with the higher dosage. This specific prescription is not to be used interchangeably for ED.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A different daily dosage is recommended.
The crucial difference in usage
The difference in dosages for these conditions highlights the importance of following a doctor's specific prescription. A doctor prescribes a certain dose based on a careful assessment of the patient's condition, overall health, and potential drug interactions. Self-adjusting the dose can disrupt this balance and lead to unforeseen complications.
Side effects at different tadalafil dosages
Taking higher doses of tadalafil directly correlates with a higher risk of adverse effects. It is crucial to understand the dose-dependent nature of these side effects.
Comparison of side effects
| Side Effect Category | Typical Starting ED Dose | Maximum ED Dose | Overdose/PAH Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Side Effects | Headache, flushing, indigestion. | Increased likelihood and intensity of headache, flushing, back pain, muscle aches, and stuffy nose. | Significantly higher risk and severity of common side effects. |
| Cardiovascular Risks | Mild drop in blood pressure. | Higher chance of experiencing a noticeable drop in blood pressure, dizziness. | Dangerous drop in blood pressure (hypotension) that can lead to fainting. Increased risk of chest pain, stroke, or heart attack, especially with pre-existing heart conditions. |
| Ocular/Auditory Risks | Rare changes in vision. | Slightly increased risk of blurred vision or changes in color perception. | Increased risk of sudden hearing loss or temporary/permanent vision loss, including non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). |
| Erection-Related Risks | Very rare risk of priapism (prolonged erection). | Increased risk of priapism. Requires immediate medical attention if erection lasts longer than 4 hours. | Highest risk of priapism, a medical emergency. |
The correct course of action
If you find that your prescribed tadalafil dose is not working, do not increase it on your own. This is a potentially dangerous action that will likely only amplify side effects rather than efficacy. The correct approach involves speaking with your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation, which may involve exploring the underlying causes of persistent ED, adjusting the timing of your dose, or considering alternative treatments. A healthcare professional can ensure you are on the right path safely. For example, different dosages can be considered for daily use to allow for more spontaneous sexual activity.
Conclusion
While the temptation to increase a medication's dose for greater effect can be strong, it is critically important to resist this impulse with tadalafil. For erectile dysfunction, taking 2 tablets of tadalafil 20 mg far exceeds the safe and typically recommended maximum dosage. This action elevates the risk of severe side effects, including dangerously low blood pressure, vision and hearing problems, and priapism. Always adhere to your doctor's instructions and never self-medicate, especially with a potent drug like tadalafil. If your current dose is not working, the safest and most effective solution is to consult your healthcare provider to discuss alternative options.
What to do in case of an overdose
In the event of a suspected tadalafil overdose, or if you experience a painful, prolonged erection lasting more than four hours, seek emergency medical help immediately. Contact a healthcare provider or a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Be honest about the amount of medication taken, as this is crucial information for emergency personnel to provide proper care. Never delay seeking help for a medical emergency related to a medication overdose.https://www.hims.com/blog/can-i-take-40mg-of-cialis
