ED Dosage Options – Find the Right Dose for You

If you’ve tried an ED pill and didn’t get the results you hoped for, the problem might be the dose, not the drug. Below we break down the most common erectile dysfunction medications, the typical dose ranges, and the personal factors that can push you up or down that scale. This isn’t medical advice, but a plain‑language guide to help you talk to your doctor with confidence.

Common ED Meds and Their Typical Doses

Viagra (sildenafil) usually starts at 50 mg taken about an hour before intimacy. If that works but feels a bit weak, doctors often suggest 100 mg. Some men can’t tolerate the higher amount and drop back to 25 mg. The pill lasts roughly four to five hours, so timing matters as much as the dose.

Cialis (tadalafil) comes in two styles. The “as‑needed” version is 10 mg or 20 mg taken at least 30 minutes before sex, with effects lasting up to 36 hours. The daily low‑dose version is 2.5 mg or 5 mg taken every day, which keeps blood levels steady and removes the need for timing.

Levitra (vardenafil) is typically 10 mg taken an hour before sex. Like Viagra, you can increase to 20 mg if the lower dose isn’t enough, or drop to 5 mg if side effects are a problem. The effect window is around six hours.

Stendra (avanafil) works faster. Most men start with 100 mg taken 15‑30 minutes before activity. Some doctors prescribe 50 mg for men who are sensitive to side effects. It can last up to six hours.

Beyond pills, injection therapy (e.g., alprostadil) often starts at 5‑10 µg per injection, with doses adjusted based on response. Testosterone therapy isn’t a direct ED cure but can help when low testosterone is the cause; common gels deliver 5‑10 g per day, while injections range from 50‑100 mg every two weeks.

Factors That Influence Your Ideal Dose

Age matters. Older men often need lower starting doses because the body processes drugs more slowly. Kidney or liver problems also call for smaller amounts, as these organs clear the medication.

Body weight and overall health play a role, too. A heavier man may need a slightly higher dose, while someone with cardiovascular issues might stay on the low end to avoid blood pressure spikes.

Other meds matter. Nitrates (used for chest pain) can’t mix with PDE‑5 inhibitors at any dose—dangerous drops in blood pressure can happen. Some blood pressure drugs, like certain alpha‑blockers, may require a dose tweak.

Alcohol and food affect how quickly the drug kicks in. A high‑fat meal can delay Viagra’s onset, while a light snack won’t. Alcohol can worsen side effects, so keep intake moderate.

Personal experience is the final guide. If 10 mg of Viagra gives you a firm result but lasts too short, moving up to 20 mg or trying a longer‑acting drug like Cialis may be better. If you feel headaches or flushing, drop down a notch.

Bottom line: start low, go slow, and keep a short log of what you took, when, and how it felt. Bring that log to your appointment, and your doctor can fine‑tune the dose without guesswork. With the right dose, most men find a reliable solution that fits their lifestyle.