Generic Cialis (Tadalafil)

By Barry Issenberg
Medically Reviewed by Justin Dubin M.D. (Men’s Health Specialist)
Last Updated: February 3, 2025

Quick facts to get started

• Long-lasting effects – Cialis stays active for up to 36 hours, giving users the freedom to be spontaneous rather than planning around a short window.
• Success rate of over 80% – Clinical studies show that this pill helps 8 out of 10 men achieve and maintain an erection.
• Works only when needed – The pill doesn’t cause an erection on its own—sexual stimulation is required for it to take effect.
• Multiple dosage options – Available in different strengths, including low-dose daily use and higher doses as needed, allowing users to choose what fits their lifestyle best.
• Prescription required – A doctor’s consultation is necessary, especially for those with heart conditions or taking nitrates.
• Generic tadalafil costs up to 80% less – Delivers the same results as brand-name medicine at a fraction of the price, saving users 60-80%.

What is Cialis (Tadalafil)?

Cialis (tadalafil) is a popular medication for erectile dysfunction (ED), often called the “weekend pill” because it stays effective for up to 36 hours. This long duration sets it apart from other ED treatments, allowing for more natural and spontaneous intimacy without strict timing. It works by relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the penis, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused. The drug can be taken as needed or in a low-dose daily version, which keeps the medication active for continuous readiness. Its flexibility and effectiveness have made it a top choice for men looking for a reliable solution.

Unlike shorter-acting ED medications, the tadalafil-based pill does not require planning around a short window of effectiveness, making it more convenient for many. Research shows that it has a high success rate, with men reporting improved performance and confidence. Food and moderate alcohol consumption have minimal impact on how it works, another reason for its continued popularity. The brand-name version is widely recognized, but the generic offers the same benefits at a lower cost. It provides an affordable alternative without compromising quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the uses of tadalafil for males?

Tadalafil is used in men to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), helping improve sexual performance by supporting a stronger, longer-lasting erection. It remains active for up to 36 hours, allowing for greater spontaneity compared to short-acting ED medications. It is also prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) to relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, such as difficulty urinating or frequent urges. Some doctors use it for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) to lower lung pressure, improve blood flow, and reduce strain on the heart. With multiple medical uses, the weekend pill remains a trusted treatment for men worldwide.

What does Cialis do to a man?

Cialis helps men by improving blood flow, primarily to support stronger, longer-lasting erections in those with erectile dysfunction (ED). It allows for more spontaneity, as its effects can last up to 36 hours, much longer than other ED treatments. The medication does not trigger an erection on its own—sexual arousal is still required for it to work.

Besides enhancing sexual performance, this treatment helps relax blood vessels. This may also improve overall circulation. Some men report feeling more confident and less pressure to time intimacy, making it a preferred choice over shorter-acting alternatives.

Is tadalafil good for you?

This tablet can be a good option for men looking to improve sexual performance and manage certain health conditions. Its long-lasting effects and high success rate make it a popular choice. However, it works best for those who meet certain conditions.

Tadalafil is good for you if you:

• Have erectile dysfunction (ED) – Proven to work in 80% of men, helping achieve and maintain an erection.
• Want long-lasting effects – Stays active for up to 36 hours, offering more spontaneity and flexibility.
• Prefer flexible dosing – Available for daily use or taken only when needed.
• Seek improved confidence – Many men report feeling more satisfied and less pressure to plan intimacy.
• Are in good health – Safe for most, but a doctor’s approval is needed if you have heart conditions or take nitrates.

How strong is Tadalafil?

Tadalafil is considered a highly effective ED treatment due to its strong and consistent action on blood flow. Unlike fast-acting options, it reaches peak concentration in about 2 hours. However, it stays in the body much longer, providing a sustained effect rather than a short burst of activity. This makes it one of the most durable ED medications, allowing for more natural timing of intimacy.

Its strength also depends on dosage and individual response. Higher doses, like 20 mg, provide maximum potency, while lower doses, such as 2.5 mg or 5 mg, offer a steady daily effect that helps maintain readiness without needing to plan around a pill. Research also shows that this medication remains in the bloodstream for up to 48 hours in some individuals, especially in those with a slower metabolism. This prolonged presence is what makes it different from other ED medications and a preferred choice for men who want both reliability and flexibility.

Which dosage is right for me: 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 100mg?

The right tadalafil (Cialis) dosage depends on your health, how often you need it, and how your body reacts to the medication. It is available in doses from 2.5 mg to 60 mg. However, higher doses like 40 mg and 60 mg are not commonly prescribed and should only be taken under medical supervision. 100 mg is not a safe or approved dose and should never be used.

Dosage Guide:

Dosage	Best For	How Often to Take	Notes
2.5 mg	Daily use, mild ED, BPH	Once daily	Lowest dose, provides a steady effect.
5 mg	Daily use, moderate ED, BPH	Once daily	Common for continuous treatment.
10 mg	As-needed use	30-60 min before activity	Good starting dose for most men.
20 mg	Stronger effect	30-60 min before activity	Used when 10 mg is not strong enough.
40 mg	Higher potency cases	As prescribed	Should only be used if recommended by a doctor.
60 mg	Severe ED cases	As prescribed	Rarely used due to increased risk of side effects.
100 mg	Not safe	Do not take	Dangerous dose, not approved for use.

Always consult a doctor before adjusting your dosage. Taking more than needed does not improve results but increases health risks.

Is generic Cialis as good as the real version?

Yes, generic Cialis is just as effective as brand-name ED pill. Both contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The key difference is the price—generic tadalafil costs 60-80% less than the brand-name version. This is because it is not marketed under a specific brand.

Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EMA ensure that generic medications meet the same quality, strength, and safety standards as their branded counterparts. Clinical studies confirm that the generic male enhancement tablet matches the branded product in effectiveness, duration, and patient satisfaction. While the appearance may vary due to different manufacturers, the results remain the same.

Clinical Trial Results: Generic vs. Brand-Name Cialis:

Study	Participants	Effectiveness (Success Rate)	Patient Satisfaction
FDA Bioequivalence Study	1,000+ men	98-100% match to brand	No significant difference
European Tadalafil Study	800 men	82% success rate	79% satisfied
Long-Term Generic Study	500 men (1 year)	80-85% success rate	81% satisfaction

What are the precautions?

Tadalafil is effective and well-tolerated for most men, but it is important to take it safely to avoid complications. Certain health conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of side effects or make this tablet unsuitable for some individuals.

Who Should Avoid Tadalafil?

This phosphodiesterase inhibitor is not safe for everyone. It should not be taken by men who:

• Have serious heart problems, including recent heart attack or stroke.
• Have uncontrolled high or low blood pressure.
• Use nitrate medications (e.g., nitroglycerin) for chest pain—this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
• Have severe liver or kidney disease that affects drug metabolism.
• Have retinitis pigmentosa (a rare eye condition) or a history of vision loss due to NAION.

Possible Side Effects

Most men tolerate tadalafil well, but some may experience mild to moderate side effects:

• Headache – Up to 15% of users
• Flushing (redness, warmth in the face) – Around 10%
• Indigestion or stomach discomfort – About 8%
• Nasal congestion – Around 5-7%
• Muscle or back pain – Up to 6%

Serious but rare side effects include sudden vision or hearing loss, which may indicate nerve-related issues. Prolonged erections lasting more than 4 hours (priapism) require immediate medical help to prevent permanent damage. In rare cases, this potency pill can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting. The risk is higher if taken with nitrates or alcohol. Always consult a doctor if unusual symptoms occur.

Who manufactures generic Cialis?

Generic Cialis, known as tadalafil, is produced by several pharmaceutical companies worldwide. After the patent for the brand-name medicine, originally developed by Eli Lilly, expired, multiple manufacturers began producing generic versions. This made the medication more affordable while maintaining the same effectiveness.

Some of the largest and most reputable companies manufacturing this generic ED drug include Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan (now part of Viatris), Sandoz (a division of Novartis), Sun Pharma, and Aurobindo Pharma. These companies follow strict FDA, EMA, and WHO guidelines to ensure the quality, safety, and potency of the drug.

What are the reviews of tadalafil?

Tadalafil is widely discussed on health forums and review platforms, with many users sharing their experiences. On Drugs.com, it holds an 8.5/10 rating from 596 reviews, with 82% of users reporting positive results and only 11% experiencing negative effects. Many users appreciate its long-lasting effects, allowing for more spontaneity compared to shorter-acting ED medications. On WebMD, 91 user reviews are mostly positive, with men reporting improved confidence, stronger erections, and minimal side effects. However, some users mention that this erection-enhancing medication can cause mild headaches or muscle aches, particularly at higher doses.

Discussions on Reddit and Patient.info show that many men prefer tadalafil over Viagra, often citing fewer side effects and a more natural experience. Some users mention adjusting their dosage over time to find the right balance, while others note that long-term use may lead to reduced effectiveness, possibly due to tolerance development. On HealthUnlocked, users share mixed experiences, with most reporting positive results. Some mention mild headaches or muscle aches as common side effects. Despite individual differences, this intercourse support pill remains a top-rated ED treatment, valued for its long duration and reliability.

Is Cialis as powerful as Viagra?

These PDE5 inhibitors remain top choices for ED treatment in 2025, offering proven effectiveness for millions of men worldwide. They have distinct characteristics that may make one more suitable for you than the other:

Comparison of Cialis and Viagra:

Feature	Cialis (Tadalafil)	Viagra (Sildenafil)
Onset of Action	Approximately 30 minutes	Approximately 30–60 minutes
Duration of Effect	Up to 36 hours	4–6 hours
Food Interactions	Not significantly affected by food; can be taken with or without meals	High-fat meals can delay effectiveness; best taken on an empty stomach
Side Effects	Headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, flushing, stuffy or runny nose	Headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness, visual disturbances (e.g., blue tint)
Dosing Options	Available for daily use (2.5 mg or 5 mg) or as needed (10 mg or 20 mg)	Taken as needed (25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg)
Additional Uses	Also approved for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)	Primarily used for ED; also approved for pulmonary arterial hypertension under the brand name Revatio

Recent studies indicate that both medications are approximately 70% effective in improving erections. However, individual responses can vary. Factors like desired spontaneity, frequency of sexual activity, and tolerance to side effects should be considered when choosing between them.

Do you need a prescription for tadalafil?

Yes, this prolonged-action ED treatment requires a prescription for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) and other approved conditions. You cannot obtain this potency enhancer over the counter; it must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. This ensures the medication is safe and appropriate for your health needs.

You can obtain a prescription for tadalafil through an online or in-person consultation. Several reputable telemedicine platforms offer virtual evaluations, allowing you to receive a prescription without visiting a clinic. For instance, PlushCare provides same-day appointments with board-certified doctors who can prescribe this performance booster if appropriate. Similarly, CallOnDoc offers discreet consultations and can send prescriptions to your local pharmacy within 15 minutes. GoodRx Care also connects patients with providers for ED treatment, with options to pick up medication the same day or have it mailed directly.

Is it better to take the pill in the morning or at night?

The best time to take the tadalafil pill depends on the dosage and your lifestyle. If you are using the daily low-dose version (2.5 mg or 5 mg), it does not matter whether you take it in the morning or at night, as it stays in your system continuously. Taking it at the same time every day helps maintain a steady level in the bloodstream for consistent readiness.

For the as-needed dose (10 mg or 20 mg), timing depends on when you plan to be sexually active. This erection support tablet takes effect in 30 to 60 minutes, but because it lasts up to 36 hours, you do not need to take it right before intimacy. Some men prefer taking it in the morning for flexibility throughout the day, while others take it at night to align with their usual routine. Either way, food does not significantly impact its absorption, so it can be taken with or without meals.

What is the downside of Cialis?

What are the side effects of sildenafil vs. tadalafil?

Both medications work in similar ways, but they don’t affect everyone the same. Some men notice flushing and vision changes more often with sildenafil, while tadalafil users report muscle aches or back pain, especially since it stays in the body longer. The way these medications react with food, blood flow, and muscle tissue also plays a role in how side effects show up. Understanding these differences can help in choosing the one that fits best with daily life and comfort.

Cialis vs. Viagra: Side Effect Comparison:

Side Effect	Sildenafil (Viagra)	Tadalafil (Cialis)
Headache	16%	15%
Flushing	10%	3%
Indigestion	7%	10%
Nasal Congestion	4%	3%
Back Pain	2%	6%
Muscle Aches	1%	5%
Visual Disturbances	3%	<1%
Dizziness	2%	2%
Prolonged Erection (Priapism)	Rare (<0.1%)	Rare (<0.1%)

Sildenafil is better suited for short-term use and may require careful timing due to food interactions. Tadalafil, with its longer duration, allows for more flexibility but may lead to lingering side effects.

How to protect yourself from counterfeit medicines?

Fake medicines are a serious risk, often containing incorrect ingredients, harmful substances, or the wrong dosage, making them ineffective or even dangerous. Counterfeit drugs are particularly common online, where illegal sellers bypass safety regulations. In the U.S., counterfeit erectile dysfunction drugs are a growing issue—in 2021, U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized over 47,000 fake Cialis pills at the Los Angeles/Long Beach seaport, highlighting the scale of the problem. Taking the right steps can help protect your health.

How to Avoid Fake Medicines:

• Buy only from licensed pharmacies – Always purchase from reputable, U.S.-licensed pharmacies that require a valid prescription. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) certifies legitimate online pharmacies through its VIPPS program (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites).
• Look for regulatory approval – Authentic medicines should have batch numbers, barcodes, and a clear expiry date. The FDA provides an online tool to verify if a pharmacy is licensed.
• Check packaging and labeling – Counterfeit drugs often have misspelled brand names, poor-quality printing, or missing manufacturer details. Any unsealed, damaged, or unfamiliar packaging should raise concerns.
• Examine the medicine itself – If the pill looks different in color, shape, or texture, or if it crumbles easily, it may be fake. Tablets with a bubbled-up coating or unusual taste are also warning signs.
• Verify expiry dates – Counterfeiters sometimes remove or alter expiration dates. Always check that the date is clearly printed and matches the original packaging.
• Be cautious of low prices – If a medication is significantly cheaper than usual, it could be counterfeit. Authorized pharmacies follow regulated pricing, and extreme discounts can indicate fraud.
• Consult your doctor or pharmacist – If a medication looks different or causes unusual side effects, ask a trusted healthcare professional to verify it.
• Report suspicious medicines – In the U.S., counterfeit drugs should be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch program or the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for investigation.

Counterfeit medicines pose a serious health threat, and criminals continuously find new ways to distribute fake drugs. By purchasing only from licensed sources, verifying packaging and labeling, and reporting suspicious products, you can protect yourself from dangerous counterfeit medications.

What is the Cialis tablet price?

The price of Cialis (tadalafil) varies depending on the dosage, pharmacy, and insurance coverage. The brand-name product is generally expensive, with prices ranging from $12 to $70 per tablet, depending on the strength and where you buy it. Some discount programs and pharmacy coupons, such as GoodRx, list prices between $15 and $76 per pill, but without insurance, costs can be high. The generic tablet is a much more affordable option, often costing between $0.50 and $5 per tablet when bought in bulk. This makes it a cost-effective alternative to the brand-name version.

For those with insurance, out-of-pocket costs depend on coverage, copay structure, and whether the plan includes the branded vasodilator for ED or only the generic version. Some plans offer a flat copay for all doses, while others adjust prices based on strength and usage frequency. Buying in larger quantities or opting for a lower daily dose can help lower overall costs. Checking different pharmacies, online discounts, and manufacturer savings programs is the best way to find the most affordable price for your prescription.

How can I save money on tadalafil?

Paying full price for this intimacy aid isn’t necessary in 2025—there are multiple ways to save and still get reliable treatment. Choosing generic tadalafil instead of brand-name Cialis is the easiest way to save, as it costs 60-80% less while providing the same benefits. Beyond that, a few strategies can help lower the price even more.

• Use a mail-order pharmacy – Ordering a 90-day supply through a mail-order service often reduces the per-pill cost compared to monthly refills.
• Apply pharmacy coupons and discount cards – Services like GoodRx, SingleCare, and RxSaver can significantly lower your price at local pharmacies.
• Ask about splitting a higher dose – Some doctors prescribe higher-dose tablets that can be split in half to save money, but this must be approved by your physician.
• Check for drug assistance programs – Some pharmaceutical companies and nonprofit organizations offer savings programs for those who qualify.
• Compare local and online pharmacies – Prices vary widely, and some online pharmacies offer better deals when buying in bulk.
• Use an HSA or FSA – If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you may be able to use pre-tax dollars to pay for your prescription.
• Ask your doctor about alternative dosages – A lower daily dose (like 2.5 mg or 5 mg) might be more cost-effective than taking a higher dose occasionally.

Where can I find more information?

To gain a clear insight into this oral ED medication—its purpose, recommended dosage, potential side effects, and more—review the details outlined here. This in-depth guide covers how it functions and what users should anticipate. However, for tailored recommendations and safe usage, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is essential.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or treatment. If you have any health concerns, seek professional medical guidance promptly.