If a doctor has mentioned Cialis or you've searched “what is Cialis” at 11 pm trying to work out whether it's the same thing as the little blue pill your mate joked about, you're in the right place.
Cialis is one of the most prescribed erectile dysfunction (ED) medicines in Australia and one of the most misunderstood. It is sold as both a daily tablet and an “as needed” one, it lasts far longer than most people expect, and its side-effect profile is genuinely different from other ED medications. This guide breaks down what Cialis is, what Cialis does, how it works, dosage options and the side effects worth knowing about in plain English, backed by clinical data.
What Is Cialis?
Cialis is the brand name for tadalafil which is a compound that belongs to the medication class of PDE5 inhibitors. Cialis is a Schedule 4 medicine according to Australia's medicines classification system.
Therefore, the question, "What is Cialis used for?" can simply be answered that Cialis medicine treats erectile dysfunction and sometimes urinary complaints associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The Cialis tablets are film-coated and have almond shapes and come in four doses of 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg in Australia.
As tadalafil's patent has already expired, generic dosages, such as Apo-Tadalafil, Tadalafil Sandoz, Tadalafil GH, etc., are also available at much lower prices.
What Does Cialis Do? How Does Cialis Work?
Cialis induces the relaxation of smooth muscle lining blood vessels, especially in the penile area. It prevents the action of an enzyme known as PDE5 which ultimately contributes to improving the blood flow in the penis and sustaining an erection. It is essential to note that Cialis doesn't trigger an erection itself and Sexual arousal or stimulation is required to feel its effectiveness.
To be more specific, tadalafil (the active ingredient in Cialis) has the following parameters:
- Onset of action: one may see immediate results in as little time as 30 minutes with maximum effectiveness occurring in around 2 hours
- Duration of action: effects last for up to 36 hours, which is much longer than the effect of Viagra (4-5 hours)
- Elimination half-time: approximately 17.5 hours
- Metabolism: primarily in the liver via the CYP3A4 enzyme, with 61% of the dose excreted in faeces and 36% in urine
The fact that the duration of action of Cialis is 36 hours is the major reason why people started calling it the weekend pill.
What is the Drug Cialis Used For?
Cialis drug (tadalafil) is approved by the TGA for:
- Erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult male patients, which is its main and most prevalent application
- Moderate-to-severe lower urinary symptoms (LUTS) resulting from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate (typically in the daily 5 mg dosage)
Aside from these applications, tadalafil's other names (like Adcirca) are for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension — but this applies to another indication entirely that is introduced and monitored differently than in the case of using Cialis for ED.
ED prevalence is thought to be higher than expected. Research conducted on 108,477 men in the 45 and Up Study has shown ED affects one in five (20%) of older men (over 40) in Australia. Every year after 40, the chance of developing ED increases by a mere 11%. Further research on men living in Western Australia has indicated the prevalence of all types of ED (ED severity from mild to severe) to be about 25%.
Cialis Dosage: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg and 20mg Explained
The dosage of Cialis must be adapted according to the person’s needs, and it also depends on whether the person takes it on an as-needed basis or daily. Only a qualified healthcare provider can determine what dosage is best.
Cialis Dosage | Typical Use | When to Take Cialis | Notes |
10 mg or 20 mg | ED, taken as needed | 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity | Effect can last up to 36 hours; not for daily use |
2.5 mg or 5 mg | ED, taken daily | Same time each day, regardless of sexual activity | Removes the need to time dose around activity |
5 mg | BPH (enlarged prostate) symptoms | Once daily | Often prescribed for men with both ED and BPH |
For taking Cialis, there are no restrictions on food. However, it should be noted that high-fat meals can slow down its absorption. Also avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice containing fruits due to their negative effect on drugs.
Benefits of Cialis Daily Dosing
There are several benefits to using Cialis daily rather than only as needed by men, including:
- The user does not have to schedule sexual activity around the need to take a Cialis pill.
- Constant levels of the drug allow for more spontaneous sexual behavior.
- Many men prefer this option because they can also treat their BPH issues with the same Cialis pills.
- This may be ideal for men with a high frequency of sexual encounters.
While daily dosing is not necessarily better, it is a different option with its own side effects and cost issues, and your doctor will take into consideration the frequency of your sexual contacts, as well as your health.
Cialis vs Tadalafil: What's the Difference?
Definitely one of the most popular queries about this medication, the answer is quite simple: the name Cialis is the brand name, while tadalafil is the active ingredient.
Aspects | Cialis (brand) | Generic Tadalafil |
Active ingredient | Tadalafil | Tadalafil (identical) |
TGA approval | Yes — Schedule 4 | Yes — Schedule 4 |
Typical price per dose (AU) | Approx. $20–$40 | Approx. $5–$15 |
Effectiveness | Clinically equivalent | Clinically equivalent |
Subsidy | Not PBS-subsidised for ED | Some brands RPBS-subsidised for eligible veteran/DVA cardholders |
When it comes to the choice between Cialis and the cheaper alternative tadalafil, most men’s choice is dictated by the price of the medications instead of the efficacy — because according to TGA regulations, generic medications must pass the same standards when it comes to safety and quality as their branded counterparts.
Side Effects of Cialis
As a medication, Cialis has risks associated with the occurrence of side effects, most of which are not severe. Based on clinical and market data, the following side effects occur most often:
Side Effect | How Common | Typical Course |
Headache | Common | Mild, usually resolves within hours |
Indigestion / upset stomach | Common | Linked to increased blood flow to the stomach lining |
Back pain or muscle aches | Common | Usually appears 12–24 hours after dosing, resolves on its own |
Flushing | Less common | Short-lived facial redness/warmth |
Stuffy or runny nose | Less common | Mild, temporary |
Vision changes / blurred vision | Rare | Seek medical advice if it occurs |
Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears | Rare, serious | Stop taking Cialis and seek medical attention |
Priapism (erection lasting more than 4 hours) | Rare, serious | Medical emergency: seek immediate care |
Cialis is used to increase blood supply not only in the penis but in the whole body, which is why its side effects may include poorer digestion, including irritation of the stomach.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
- An erection lasting for more than four hours
- Eye suddenly going blind
- Hearing suddenly impairment
- Chest pain, dizziness or fainting during the sexual process
- Symptoms of severe allergic reaction
Who Shouldn't Take Cialis
Cialis is not for use by everyone and it is important to inform your doctor about your current medical condition before beginning medication, especially if you:
- Use nitrate drugs for treating heart problems, since combining Cialis with these medications can lower blood pressure dangerously
- Are suffering from serious heart or liver disease
- Have suffered from a heart attack or stroke within the past 3 to 6 months
- Take alpha blockers for hypertension or for prostate issues without getting advice on the combination
- Suffer from low and uncontrolled blood pressure
Cialis vs. Viagra: How the Two Compare
Cialis and Viagra are often compared, but they are alternatives, not medications to be combined taking both together is not recommended due to increased risk of side effects, particularly a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Aspect | Cialis (tadalafil) | Viagra (sildenafil) |
Active ingredient | Tadalafil | Sildenafil |
Onset of action | Around 30 minutes, peak at 2 hours | Around 30 to 60 minutes, peak at 1 hour |
Duration of effect | Up to 36 hours | 4 to 5 hours |
Food interaction | Minimal, can be taken with or without food | High fat meals can delay absorption |
Daily dosing option | Yes (2.5mg to 5mg) | No, designed for as-needed use only |
Common side effects | Headache, indigestion, back pain & muscle aches | Headache, flushing, nasal congestion and visual disturbances |
Best suited for | Spontaneity over a longer window; men also managing BPH | Predictable, single use timing before activity |
Clinically speaking, neither drug is stronger, as both perform the same function of being PDE5 inhibitors. However, they differ in the timeframes during which they can be utilized: Viagra is appropriate for those looking to engage in a one-time episode of intimacy, while Cialis can either be used during its 36-hour timeframe or taken in small doses on a daily basis.
Is Cialis Covered by Medicare or Insurance in Australia?
One of the questions that men ask themselves the most is not about dosage, but rather “Will it get covered?” The straightforward answer is that it will not usually get covered.
- Medicare/PBS: Cialis (as well as ordinary tadalafil) is not subsidised under PBS when it is prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Thus, since ED is not a PBS-subsidised indication for tadalafil, patients have to pay the full private price.
- DVA/RPBS: Veteran Affairs cardholders will be allowed to receive certain brands of tadalafil at a subsidized price thanks to a program called Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS), even for ED. Thus, this is one of the few cases when people can get their medications reimbursed.
- BPH exception: If tadalafil 5 mg is prescribed for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, certain health funds may compensate a part of the cost of tadalafil. However, this depends on each particular health fund and may be verified by providing corresponding inquiries to the health fund.
- Private health insurance (extras): This kind of insurance does cover ED, but such cases are rare. Some insurance providers might offer coverage for ED treatments under the general pharmacy a few funds bundle it under general pharmacy or "health management" extras but this is the exception rather than the rule.
How to Take Cialis Safely
- Do not take Cialis unless it has been prescribed to you by a properly registered AHPRA doctor following a relevant consultation
- Take the appropriate dosage as specified by your doctor and do not take an extra dose in case you feel your first dose did not work
- Do not combine Cialis with any nitrate medications, recreational drugs (like poppers), or excessive amounts of alcohol
- Inform each healthcare provider and pharmacist about taking Cialis tadalafil before starting a new medicine
- Store the drug at a temperature of less than 25 degrees Celsius away from moisture and direct sunlight
Frequently Asked Questions About Cialis
What are Cialis used for?
Cialis is mainly meant for treating erectile dysfunction while in lower daily doses it is effective for treating urinary problems associated with an enlarged prostate.
How long does Cialis last?
One dose can be effective for up to 36 hours after taking it, although this varies from patient to patient.
Is Cialis the same as tadalafil?
Yes, it is true. Cialis is the brand name of tadalafil. Tadalafil is the generic equivalent and approved by the TGA.
What is the difference between Cialis 5mg and Cialis 20mg?
5 mg is often prescribed for daily consumption (for ED and/or enlargement of the prostate), while doses of 10mg and 20mg are usually used as required before intercourse. Your doctor will determine the right dosage.
What are the most common side effects of Cialis?
The most commonly reported side effects of tadalafil are headache, stomach upset, back pain and muscle pain.
Can I take Cialis every day?
Yes, Cialis can be taken daily in low doses. For ED, this is typically 2.5–5 mg; for BPH, the standard dose is 5 mg once daily.
Do I need a prescription for Cialis in Australia?
Yes, Cialis cannot be bought legally without a prescription from a licensed physician in Australia, as it is a Schedule 4 drug.