White Rx-only tadalafil tablet bottle, labeled as dispensed by a state-licensed pharmacy, with a pale-yellow tablet and a teal glass arc.

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Tadalafil

FDA-approved genericPrescription required

Ready for the whole weekend. Or every day.

  • Works up to 36 hours
  • As needed or daily
  • Licensed US pharmacy

Generic tadalafil, as needed or daily

Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis®. Taken as needed, it works for up to 36 hours. Taken as a low daily dose, it keeps you ready without planning around a pill.

Form
Tablet
How to take
As needed or once daily
Lasts
Up to 36 hours
Made by
FDA-approved manufacturer; dispensed by a state-licensed pharmacy

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Quick answer

Tadalafil at a glance

Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis®.

How it’s taken: tablet, as needed or once daily.

It starts at $49/mo at Surna, with provider care included.

A prescription from a licensed provider is required. It’s an FDA-approved generic, dispensed by a state-licensed pharmacy.

Compare: Sildenafil vs. tadalafil

Updated

How Tadalafil works

Tadalafil blocks PDE5, an enzyme that limits blood flow, so your body’s natural response to arousal works more easily. Sexual stimulation is still needed.

It stays active in your body much longer than sildenafil, which is why one dose can last up to 36 hours.

What to expect

Everyone responds differently. Your provider checks in and adjusts your plan along the way.

First use

Take an as-needed dose at least 30 minutes before sex, or start your daily dose.

Daily dosing

It can take about 5 days of daily use to reach a steady level in your body.

Ongoing

Your provider adjusts your dose or switches between as-needed and daily if you want.

Is it right for you?

Your provider makes the final call after reviewing your health history.

Often a good fit

  • Want flexibility over a weekend
  • Rather not plan around a pill (daily)
  • Had side effects with sildenafil

Usually not a fit

  • Take nitrates for chest pain, like nitroglycerin, or the medication riociguat
  • Told by a doctor that sexual activity isn't safe for your heart
  • Recent heart attack or stroke
  • Use recreational 'poppers' (amyl nitrite)

Not a complete list. Tell your provider about all health conditions and medications.

Possible side effects

Most side effects are mild. Your care team is a message away if something doesn't feel right.

More common

HeadacheIndigestionBack painMuscle achesFlushingStuffy nose

Get medical help right away for

  • An erection that lasts more than 4 hours
  • Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
  • Sudden decrease or loss of hearing
  • Chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sex

For a medical emergency, call 911.

How to take it

Always follow the directions on your label and from your provider.

As needed

Take at least 30 minutes before sex, no more than once a day.

Daily

Take at the same time every day, with or without food.

Don't double up

Don't take an as-needed dose on top of a daily dose unless your provider tells you to.

Tadalafil questions

As needed or daily: which is better?

It depends on your routine. As needed works well if sex is occasional. Daily is better if you want to be ready any time without planning.

Does food affect tadalafil?

No. It works the same with or without food.

Is daily tadalafil used for anything else?

Yes. Daily tadalafil is also FDA-approved to treat urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate (BPH).

See if Tadalafil is right for you.

Answer a few questions and a licensed provider will review your options.

FDA-approved generic

Important safety information

Last updated

Do not take this medication if you take nitrates or riociguat, as the combination can cause a sudden, dangerous drop in blood pressure. Sexual activity can strain your heart; stop and get medical help if you have chest pain, dizziness, or nausea during sex. Get emergency care for an erection lasting more than 4 hours, or for sudden vision or hearing loss. Tell your provider about all medications you take, including alpha-blockers and HIV medications. Cialis® is a registered trademark of its owner. Surna Health is not affiliated with its owner.

This is not a complete list of risks. Talk with your provider and read the full prescribing information or medication guide.