Same active molecule, different price. Tadalafil is the FDA-approved generic of Cialis® (Eli Lilly’s patent expired in 2018). Same dosing, same mechanism, typically ~10% of the brand-name cost.

Both are as-needed doses. 10 mg is the standard starting dose for most men; 20 mg is for men who need a stronger response and tolerate 10 mg well. Your provider recommends the right strength based on your health profile. 20 mg is not for daily use.

Up to 36 hours per dose at the as-needed strengths — the longest of any PDE5 inhibitor. Peak effect is 30 minutes to 6 hours after dosing. For daily use, it takes about 4–5 days of consistent dosing to reach steady state.

Headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle aches, facial flushing, nasal congestion, dizziness. Seek emergency care for an erection lasting more than 4 hours or for sudden vision/hearing loss.

Tadalafil 10 mg: 60 pills for $147 quarterly, 120 pills for $222 per 6 months, or 240 pills for $348 annually — that annual plan works out to $1.45 per dose. Tadalafil 20 mg: $159 quarterly, $240 per 6 months, $384 annually (240 pills, $1.60 per dose). Quarterly plans bill and ship every 3 months; 6-month and annual plans bill upfront and ship quarterly. There is no monthly plan for tablets.