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Tadalafil (Generic Cialis)
genericTadalafil — FDA-approved generic since 2018
$1.80-$10/pill
/month
Dosing
2.5mg or 5mg daily, or 10mg-20mg as needed roughly 30 minutes before sexual activity. Should not exceed one dose per day.
Type
Generic
Key Fact
Often called the 'weekend pill' because its effects may last up to 36 hours — significantly longer than other PDE5 inhibitors.
Price
$1.80-$10/pill
Tadalafil is the generic version of Cialis and is widely recognized for its extended duration of action. Unlike sildenafil, tadalafil can be taken daily at a low dose or as needed at a higher dose, offering flexibility depending on individual preference. Its long-lasting effects have made it a popular choice for men who want to avoid timing a pill around sexual activity.
Where to Get Tadalafil (Generic Cialis)
Compare providers offering tadalafil (generic cialis) — ranked by our editorial team
Hims
Available as daily or as-needed prescriptions; includes online consultation and ongoing provider access.
$2-$6/dose
/month
Ro
Online provider visit included; can be prescribed as daily or as-needed with home delivery.
$3-$8/dose
/month
BlueChew
Offered in chewable tablet form; subscription model with multiple plan tiers available.
$3/dose
/month
Rex MD
One of the more affordable daily tadalafil options; includes online evaluation and discreet shipping.
$1.80/dose (daily)
/month
How Tadalafil (Generic Cialis) Works
Like sildenafil, tadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor that may help increase blood flow to the penis by blocking the enzyme that breaks down cGMP. What sets tadalafil apart is its longer half-life — roughly 17.5 hours — which means its effects can potentially last up to 36 hours. At a daily dose of 2.5mg or 5mg, tadalafil may maintain a steady level in the body, potentially allowing for erections whenever sexually aroused without needing to plan around a pill. Sexual stimulation is still required.
Side Effects
Common
- • Headache
- • Indigestion or acid reflux
- • Back pain
- • Muscle aches
- • Nasal congestion
- • Facial flushing
Serious (Rare)
- • Priapism (an erection lasting more than 4 hours) — seek emergency medical attention
- • Sudden vision loss or changes
- • Sudden hearing decrease or loss
- • Chest pain, especially during or after sexual activity
- • Severe dizziness or fainting
Who Is Eligible
Tadalafil is typically prescribed to adult men diagnosed with erectile dysfunction. It should not be taken alongside nitrate medications or certain alpha-blockers without medical guidance. Men with liver or kidney concerns, heart conditions, or a history of stroke should discuss risks carefully with a provider before starting tadalafil.