So if you want to take just one ED pill and not have to time the dose with planned sexual activity, Cialis (or generic tadalafil) might be the better option. In a world full of choices, you want to make sure you’re making the best ones, especially when it comes to your health. For the treatment of erectile dysfunction, you’re lucky to have several weekend cialis choices, including tadalafil and Cialis. While you may not want to bargain shop for certain purchases like new tires or a mattress, there are no differences in quality between generic tadalafil and brand-name Cialis. Here’s what to remember about tadalafil versus Cialis: Tadalafil and Cialis are essentially the same drug. Tadalafil and Cialis are the same in efficacy, side effects, and duration because they both contain tadalafil. Cialis is simply the brand name for tadalafil.
Mechanism of action
These can increase your risk of experiencing serious side effects or affect how well the medication works. Besides their names (and the boxes they come in), another big difference between the two is the price. Generic medicines typically cost less than brand-name drugs because generic versions don’t have to repeat the costly studies required to prove safety and efficacy. The cost of tadalafil can vary depending on the dosage you use. But the average price for a 5-milligram tablet is $1 to $8, while a 10-milligram tablet may be anywhere from $1 to $25, sometimes more.
Safety and Storage:
If you’re taking the brand name, the price of Cialis can range from $12 to upwards of $70 per tablet, depending on the specific dosage. Monthly costs range from $380 to $1,000 or more. These prices can also depend on where you buy the medication, your insurance, and several other factors. Deciding which generic Cialis is the best usually comes down to which generic Cialis is the most accessible and affordable for you. Find answers to frequently asked questions about tadalafil and Cialis below. Tadalafil and Cialis are essentially the same drug. Apart from their names and packaging, the main difference between Cialis and tadalafil is price.
| Product | Dosage | Quantity + Bonus | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cialis Generic | 2.5mg | 180 + 10 Pills | 154.86€ 147.49€ | |
| Cialis Black | 80mg | 180 + 10 Pills | 356.64€ 339.66€ | |
| Cialis Super Active | 20mg | 120 + 16 Pills | 382.15€ 363.95€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 20mg | 180 + 10 Pills | 254.09€ 241.99€ | |
| Cialis Professional | 40mg | 60 + 2 Pills | 262.32€ 249.83€ | |
| Cialis Super Active | 20mg | 270 + 30 Pills | 661.49€ 629.99€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 10mg | 10 Pills | 31.41€ 29.91€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 5mg | 90 + 6 Pills | 115.91€ 110.39€ | |
| Cialis Original | 20mg | 64 + 4 Pills | 274.18€ 261.12€ | |
| Cialis Black | 80mg | 20 Pills | 71.83€ 68.41€ | |
| Cialis Super Active | 20mg | 60 + 8 Pills | 230.32€ 219.35€ | |
| Cialis Professional | 20mg | 10 Pills | 48.29€ 45.99€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 2.5mg | 10 Pills | 28.51€ 27.15€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 2.5mg | 30 + 4 Pills | 51.95€ 49.48€ |
Choosing between them is a personal choice. Both tadalafil and Cialis are great choices for ED and can be taken either daily or as needed before sex. Choosing between them is a matter of preference. Generic works the same as the name brand. Some people stick with brand names because they’re familiar with the product (including how it looks or tastes) or because the generic isn’t available. Generic drugs may look different, but they’re equally effective. For instance, Hims ED hard mints contain compounded tadalafil that tastes, smells, and looks like a mint. Wondering how tadalafil and Cialis compare to other ED drugs?
What Are the Current Market Dynamics for Tadalafil?
Tadalafil is the generic version and active ingredient in Cialis. They work the same in terms of treating erectile dysfunction, and tadalafil is considered just as good as Cialis. In most cases, tadalafil will take 30 minutes to an hour to kick in after taking the tablet. But that doesn’t mean you’ll automatically be hard once it takes effect — you still have to be sexually stimulated (mentally or physically) to get an erection. The effects of Cialis stick around for up to 36 hours, whereas Viagra only lasts four to six hours. Read more about these medications and others in our guide to ED treatments. Talk to a healthcare professional today to see if it’s right for you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):
It should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor. Be ready for sex whenever you're in the mood Dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) can be, well, hard — just ask the 30 million affected men in the United States. But choosing the right treatment can be even harder, which brings us to tadalafil versus Cialis®. If you’ve been exploring ED medications, you’ve likely come across Cialis and the generic drug tadalafil.
What is Cialis?
Both are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and routinely prescribed for ED. Here, we’ll answer all your questions about tadalafil versus Cialis, starting with: Is tadalafil the same as Cialis? Cialis and tadalafil are basically the same medication, as tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis. They’re equally effective in treating erectile dysfunction, last the same amount of time, and carry the same risk of side effects. Tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors in the management of erectile dysfunction. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Efficacy and safety of tadalafil once-a-day versus tadalafil on-demand in patients with erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analyses. Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations.
| Development Area | Innovation Focus | Expected Benefits | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Formulations | Long-acting or dissolvable tablets | Increased patient convenience | 2025-2027 |
| Combination Drugs | Cialis + other ED meds | Improved efficacy and options | 2024-2026 |
| Digital Health Integration | Apps for dosage reminders | Better adherence, monitoring | 2024 onward |
| Personalized Medicine | Tailored dosing based on genetics | Enhanced safety and effectiveness | 2025-2028 |
We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references.
Shipping Information
Daily Cialis and as-needed tadalafil before sex are similarly effective for treating ED, according to a 2017 review. If you’re wondering about differences in effectiveness between tadalafil and Cialis, there are none. Since their chemical content is identical, any study on the efficacy of tadalafil can also be considered a study on Cialis. That’s because generic medications are required to be the same as their brand-name drugs in dosage, efficacy, strength, and safety, as well as how the medication is taken. Put simply, one of the biggest differences between Cialis and tadalafil is branding.
How long does it take for Cialis to work?
Two names exist because Cialis is a trademark of the drug manufacturer Eli Lilly and Company. Though tadalafil was approved by the FDA in 2003 and sold exclusively as Cialis by Eli Lilly, the patent expired in 2018. This allowed other companies to begin selling the generic drug. As of 2024, neither tadalafil nor Cialis canadian pharmace cialis is available as an over-the-counter drug. Whether you take the brand-name medication or the generic version, your dosage will be the same. Dr.
- Cialis Lilly is part of a broader portfolio by Eli Lilly that addresses several medical conditions.
- Its patent expiration has led to more affordable generics entering the market.
- Lilly maintains stringent manufacturing standards for Cialis products.
- Patients should disclose all medications and health conditions before starting Cialis.
- The brand conducts patient assistance programs for affordability in some regions.
- Cialis Lilly tablets are scored for easy splitting if needed to adjust dose.
- Erectile dysfunction can also be influenced by psychological factors; Cialis addresses physical causes.
- Cialis Lilly must be taken cautiously in patients with heart conditions.
- Regular medical follow-up is recommended to monitor effectiveness and safety.
- Cialis Lilly promotes balanced lifestyle as part of overall ED management.
Kelly Brown is a board certified Urologist and fellowship trained in Andrology.
- Psychological benefits include reduced anxiety about performance.
- Can improve sexual satisfaction and overall quality of life for couples.
- For BPH, benefits include reduced nocturia and improved urinary control.
- Successful treatment may improve self-esteem and relationship dynamics.
- Unrealistic expectations (e.g., automatic erection) can lead to disappointment.
- Open communication with one's partner is encouraged.
- Therapy or counseling may be needed alongside medication in some cases.
- It is a treatment, not a cure, for the underlying conditions.
She is an accomplished men’s health expert with a robust background in healthcare innovation, clinical medicine, and academic research. Dr.
Cialis® (tadalafil) marks 10 years since U.S. approval
Treating ED and treating benign prostatic hyperplasia require different tadalafil dosages. For BPH, tadalafil is prescribed at a daily lower dose of 5 milligrams (mg). A higher Cialis dosage — usually 10 milligrams — is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction as needed before sex. A 20-milligram Cialis dose can also be used as needed for erectile dysfunction. A daily 5 milligram dose can be used for erectile dysfunction for guys with more frequent or more spontaneous needs.
Generic Alternatives
While generic drugs have the same benefits as their brand-name counterparts, they also have the same possible risks, drug interactions, and side effects. Any medication, brand name or generic, can cause side effects. If you’re taking these medications for ED, you may want to be on the lookout for the common side effects of Cialis: And while a prolonged erection may sound like a dream come true, no erection should last more than four hours. If your erection is sticking around past this timeline (a condition called priapism), seek medical advice from a healthcare professional immediately. You should also be aware of potential drug interactions between tadalafil and other medications, supplements, or even some foods. Brown was previously Medical Director of a male fertility startup where she lead strategy and design of their digital health platform, an innovative education and telehealth model for delivering expert male fertility care. She completed her undergraduate studies at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (go Heels!) with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science and a Minor in Chemistry. She took a position at University of California Los Angeles as a radiologic technologist in the department of Interventional Cardiology, further solidifying her passion for medicine. She also pursued the unique opportunity to lead departmental design and operational development at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, sparking her passion for the business of healthcare.
| Stage | Description | Key Stakeholders |
|---|---|---|
| Raw Material Sourcing | Tadalafil synthesis from chemical suppliers | Raw material vendors |
| Manufacturing | Tablet production in Eli Lilly facilities | Manufacturing plants |
| Quality Control | Testing for potency, purity, stability | Quality assurance teams |
| Distribution | Warehousing and delivery to pharmacies | Distributors, logistics |
Dr.
Key Takeaways
The main difference is that Cialis is a brand name, which usually makes it more expensive than its generic version, tadalafil. Both tadalafil and Cialis belong to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors), which were initially developed to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). These drugs block the PDE5 enzyme, widening blood vessels and improving blood flow to the penis with sexual stimulation. This results in firmer, longer-lasting erections, no matter what’s causing ED symptoms. After all, many factors contribute to erectile dysfunction, including: Tadalafil and Cialis are ED pills that can be taken daily or just before sex to improve erectile function, regardless of whether your ED is mental or physical.
Dive Insight:
Although tadalafil received FDA approval later than similar ED medications, its ability to be taken daily or on-demand quickly made it a popular choice. Another unique aspect is tadalafil’s duration. The medication can support erections for up to 36 hours, much longer than other PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil citrate (Viagra®), vardenafil (Levitra®), or avanafil (Stendra®). It can be prescribed for ED or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — also known as enlarged prostate. Cialis and tadalafil are typically taken daily for BPH treatment or right before sexual activity for ED — but you can take them daily for ED as well. Brown then went on to obtain her doctorate in medicine from the prestigious Northwestern University - Feinberg School of Medicine and Masters in Business Administration from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management, with a concentration in Healthcare Management.
| Side Effect | Severity | Frequency | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headache | Mild | Common | Hydration, pain relievers |
| Flushing | Mild | Common | Cool environment |
| Dyspepsia | Mild | Less common | Dietary adjustments |
| Muscle pain | Mild | Rare | Rest, analgesics |
| Nasal congestion | Mild | Less common | Decongestants |
During her surgical residency in Urology at University of California San Francisco, she utilized her research year to focus on innovations in telemedicine and then served as chief resident with significant contributions to clinical quality improvement.