Cialis
Cialis (Tadalafil) is a trusted medication for treating erectile dysfunction. It offers long-lasting effects up to 36 hours. Ideal for a flexible and spontaneous lifestyle
Brand or generic
Strength
- Generic Cialis from 67p per tablet — see Tadalafil
- Effective for up to 36 hours
- Takes about 30 minutes to take effect
How to get Cialis
Our clinician-led process for accessing Cialis safely and discreetly.
Complete a simple assessment
Answer a few questions about your health and symptoms.
Your assessment is reviewed by a clinician
A UK-registered prescriber carefully reviews your assessment to ensure treatment is safe and suitable for you.
Receive discreet delivery
Your medication is dispensed by our registered pharmacy and delivered directly to your door in plain packaging.
Ongoing support
Our pharmacists and doctors are on hand if you have questions about your treatment.
About Cialis
Cialis is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis.
Buy Cialis Tablets Online UK
Cialis is a trusted and clinically proven treatment for erectile dysfunction, offering long-lasting results when you need them. At Simple Online Pharmacy, our UK-registered online doctor service makes it easy to access genuine Cialis safely and discreetly.
Simply complete a quick online medical assessment, and our doctors will evaluate your suitability for treatment. If approved, your prescription is sent to our UK-registered pharmacy team, who will dispense and securely deliver your medication straight to your door.
With expert oversight and a seamless ordering process, getting effective ED treatment has never been easier.
What Is Cialis?
Cialis is a brand name form of tadalafil, an erectile dysfunction treatment. It is part of a group of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors which are the family of tablet medicines that treat erectile dysfunction.
Erectile dysfunction tablets, such as Cialis, are highly effective (81%) in improving men's ability to gain and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated. They have helped millions of men have normal sex lives. The ability to buy online after a consultation allows men who may not otherwise seek treatment, to access these medicines.
Generic Cialis
Tadalafil which is the active ingredient in Cialis is now available generically. In 2017, the patent for the exclusive manufacturer of this drug expired, and so Lilly was no longer the only company able to market this medication.
When the patent expired the price for Tadalafil dropped drastically, making medication more affordable for patients. Tadalafil is available for as low as 67p per tablet compared to £2.26 per tablet for branded Cialis. 'Generic Cialis' in the UK, is medically equivalent to Cialis and contains Tadalafil, the same ingredient.
Summary
| Dose | When required: Take ONE tablet 30 minutes before sexual activity. |
| Type of medicine | Erection Pill - PDE-5 Inhibitor |
| Mechanism | Increases blood flow to the genitals to assist with gaining and maintaining an erection |
| Available Size | 4 to 84 tablets |
| Available Strengths | 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg & 20mg |
| Active Ingredient | Tadalafil |
| Price | From £8.95 (Generic) or £37.95 (Original) |
| Side Effects | Can include headaches, facial flushing, nasal congestion, dizziness. |
How Cialis works
Cialis will only give an erection when sexually stimulated, and can be effective for up to 36 hours after dosing.
How Does Cialis Work?
Cialis works by relaxing the muscles around the penis, promoting blood flow in the area. This allows the penis to fill with blood easier, making it significantly easier for men to gain and maintain an erection. Much like other erectile dysfunction tablets, Cialis will only give an erection when sexually stimulated.
How Long Does it Last?
The main reason many men may choose Cialis over the other ED drugs available is its long-lasting effect. Tadalafil can be effective for up to 36 hours after dosing, and so men may be able to have regular sexual activity for days after taking a dose. This earned Cialis the nickname "The Weekend Pill", as it can last for almost a whole weekend.
This long-lasting effect is the distinct difference between Viagra and Cialis, and the reason why men will select Cialis over the other PDE5 inhibitor drugs available. If you would like to make an informed decision on whether to begin treatment with Cialis, we have a collection of real user reviews and articles on the subject.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
It will take generally take between 30 to 60 minutes to get the maximum effect from Cialis. Some men may find it works in as little as 15 minutes. Time to effect will often depend on a number of factors including how full the stomach is, sexual arousal, energy levels and alcohol consumption.
The time for general absorption of tablets is about 15-30 minutes, but these other factors may change the blood concentration of Cialis needed to gain an erection on that occasion.
How to take Cialis
When required: take ONE tablet 30 minutes before sexual activity. Cialis daily: take ONE tablet at the same time each day.
Dosage
When using Cialis when required (10mg & 20mg Cialis tablets):
The general dose for Cialis is one tablet 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. You should not take more than one dose in a 24 hour period. If you do not get a sufficient erection from the 10mg dose, you use the higher dose Cialis 20mg tablet.
Ideally use the lowest effective dose to minimise side effects from Cialis. You should ideally take tablets on an empty stomach for a faster time to effect.
When using Daily Cialis (2.5mg & 5mg tablets):
When using Cialis daily, you should aim to take one tablet at the same time each day. This will ensure that you maintain a constant level of Tadalafil in your system. Do not use any additional ED medicines with these treatments as 2.5mg-5mg of tadalafil should be sufficient for an erection. If not 10 or 20mg when required dosing should be considered.
Cialis Daily
Cialis is available as a regular daily dose in 2.5 and 5mg strengths. Men may consider using the daily dosage if they have more spontaneous, regular sex. The reason the daily form of the drug is advantageous is that men no longer need to always remember to take their Cialis dose 30 minutes before sexual activity.
The daily dose is taken each day and maintains levels of Tadalafil in the blood. This means that an erection should be achieved at any time of day or night, without needing to remember to take your medication just before. This daily tablet is particularly useful for men with highly active sex lives.
Cialis prices — brand vs generic
Cialis is available as 10mg and 20mg tablets to take when required, and as 2.5mg and 5mg tablets to take daily, in packs of 4 to 84. Choose a strength to compare each pack size. What you pay depends on the strength and pack size your clinician prescribes.
Cialis is the branded product made by Lilly. Tadalafil, the generic form, is medically equivalent and comes in the same strengths and pack sizes from £8.95 per pack. Highlighted columns follow your brand or generic choice above.
Cialis 10mg (brand) from £37.95 per pack · Tadalafil 10mg (generic) from £8.95 per pack
| Pack size | Cialis (brand) | Tadalafil (generic) | You save with generic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 tablets | £37.95 | £8.95 | £29.00 (76%) |
| 8 tablets | £68.65 | £15.95 | £52.70 (77%) |
| 12 tablets | £104.95 | £22.95 | £82.00 (78%) |
| 16 tablets | £132.00 | £25.45 | £106.55 (81%) |
| 32 tablets | £234.95 | £43.95 | £191.00 (81%) |
| 64 tablets | £444.95 | £74.95 | £370.00 (83%) |
Cialis 20mg (brand) from £38.95 per pack · Tadalafil 20mg (generic) from £9.75 per pack
| Pack size | Cialis (brand) | Tadalafil (generic) | You save with generic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 tablets | £38.95 | £9.75 | £29.20 (75%) |
| 8 tablets | £71.95 | £15.95 | £56.00 (78%) |
| 12 tablets | £109.95 | £23.80 | £86.15 (78%) |
| 16 tablets | £137.95 | £28.45 | £109.50 (79%) |
| 32 tablets | £239.95 | £53.95 | £186.00 (78%) |
| 64 tablets | £449.95 | £74.95 | £375.00 (83%) |
Cialis 2.5mg daily (brand) from £68.95 per pack · Tadalafil 2.5mg daily (generic) from £19.85 per pack
| Pack size | Cialis (brand) | Tadalafil (generic) | You save with generic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 tablets | £68.95 | £19.85 | £49.10 (71%) |
| 56 tablets | £137.95 | £38.50 | £99.45 (72%) |
| 84 tablets | £189.95 | £56.50 | £133.45 (70%) |
Cialis 5mg daily (brand) from £71.95 per pack · Tadalafil 5mg daily (generic) from £22.85 per pack
| Pack size | Cialis (brand) | Tadalafil (generic) | You save with generic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 tablets | £71.95 | £22.85 | £49.10 (68%) |
| 56 tablets | £142.50 | £44.85 | £97.65 (69%) |
| 84 tablets | £189.95 | £66.95 | £123.00 (65%) |
ED Trial Pack — Sildenafil 50mg ×4, Tadalafil 10mg ×4, Vardenafil 10mg ×4£42.39 · View trial pack
Prices are per pack. Your clinician will confirm the appropriate strength based on your assessment.
Alternatives
Alternative treatment options to Cialis include the famous blue pill, Viagra. Sildenafil is a generic form of Viagra, which is cheaper. Both Viagra and Sildenafil contain the same active ingredient (Sildenafil Citrate). Spedra (the fastest working ED pill) and Vardenafil are two other ED drugs also available in the UK.
For those who are unsure what might be best for them, an ED trial pack can be useful to determine the best medicine for you.
Counselling can be effective in treating ED. For men whose erectile dysfunction is mainly down to nerves, or some other form of anxiety, psychologists can assist in developing techniques to better cope with situations where stress occurs. This, in turn, can help improve your sexual performance.
Lifestyle changes can help some men to overcome erectile dysfunction. Obesity, high blood pressure and alcohol consumption are factors that cause erectile dysfunction. Decreasing your alcohol intake managing underlying conditions, and exercising more, can have a positive impact on your ability to get and maintain an erection.
Treatment Comparison
| Sildenafil | Viagra | Tadalafil | Cialis | Vardenafil | Levitra | Spedra | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Sildenafil | Sildenafil | Tadalafil | Tadalafil | Vardenafil | Vardenafil | Avanafil |
| Time to Take Effect | 30-60 mins | 30-60 mins | 15-45 mins | 15-45 mins | 30-60 mins | 30-60 mins | 15-30 mins |
| Duration of Action | 4-6 hours | 4-6 hours | 24-36 hours | 24-36 hours | 4-6 hours | 4-6 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Unique Feature | Same active ingredient as Viagra | Most well known | Same active ingredient as Cialis | Longest Acting | Used for diabetics | Used for diabetics | Quickest Acting |
| Price Per Tablet | From 78p | From £4.84 | From 67p | From £2.26 | From £2.74 | From £2.97 | From £2.97 |
Side effects and safety
Side effects can include headaches, facial flushing, nasal congestion and dizziness. Rare but serious side effects need immediate medical attention.
Side Effects
As with all medicines, there is always a risk of experiencing some side effects. While most are not serious, you should be aware of the potential side effects of any medication you take.
More common side effects of Cialis and other ED medications are headaches, facial flushing, dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea, stomach upset, nose bleeds and nasal congestion.
If you experience any of the rare but serious side effects listed below, stop taking the medicine, and report these to your GP immediately.
- Priapism - An often painful erection that will not go away (lasts more than 4 hours).
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes.
- Sudden hearing loss or reduction in your ability to hear
- Prolonged chest pain
These side effects are very rare but may require medical attention. For a full list of potential side effects, read the patient information leaflet for different strengths of Cialis.
Cialis Warnings and Precautions
Cialis (tadalafil) may not be suitable for all people. Those with an allergic reaction to other PDE-5 inhibitors or any other listed ingredient should not take the medicine.
Other Medicines and Cialis
Cialis cannot be prescribed by our doctor if you are taking nicorandil or nitrate-based medication, such as GTN spray or isosorbide mononitrate tablets for angina. It is these nitrates that can interact dangerously in your system and can lead to severe drops in blood pressure.
If you are taking alpha-blocking medicines, such as tamsulosin or trazodone, you are advised to leave at least six hours between taking your alpha-blocker and Cialis.
Misuse
Cialis should be taken for therapeutic purposes only. Misuse of prescription medication can result in serious side effects. The 'recreational' use of the medicine to enhance sexual performance when you are already able to achieve a sufficient erection, should be avoided.
If you are usually able to obtain an erection, you are more likely to suffer from a prolonged erection after taking ED medication. Prolonged erections (4+ hours) require you to seek medical help immediately.
The supply of any prescription-only medicines are for personal use only, and should not be shared. Take the treatment as directed, and avoid any advice encountered in forums about combination use.
For additional warnings and precautions for Cialis, read the patient information leaflet.
Frequently asked questions
All of our medication and condition content is written by UK qualified pharmacists and doctors.
General Information
What is Cialis used for?
Cialis is used to treat erectile dysfunction in men.
What is the difference between Cialis and Viagra?
The main difference is in their duration of action. Cialis lasts between 24–36 hours, whereas Viagra lasts about 4–6 hours.
Effectiveness & Results
How Effective Is Cialis?
Up to 81% of men may notice a firmer, longer-lasting erection. If the treatment isn’t effective, ask our doctors about possibly increasing the dose.
How long does the average erection last?
It varies widely, ranging from 3 to 30 minutes depending on arousal and ejaculation timing.
Usage & Dosage
Can I take 20mg of Cialis?
Yes. Although the starting dose is typically 10mg, Cialis 20mg can be prescribed if 10mg is ineffective.
Side Effects & Safety
How can I avoid Cialis side effects?
While side effects cannot be completely avoided, you can minimise risks by avoiding recreational drugs, checking for medication interactions, and using the lowest effective dose.
Access & Cost
Can you get Cialis on the NHS?
Cialis can be prescribed on the NHS for men meeting specific criteria, while private prescriptions are available for those suitable for erectile dysfunction treatment.
Do you need a prescription to buy Cialis?
Yes. Cialis is a prescription-only medication in the UK, so a doctor’s prescription is required.
Can I buy Cialis over the counter?
No. Cialis is not available over the counter; it must be obtained with a prescription.
Can I buy Cialis online?
Yes. You can purchase Cialis online from a UK registered pharmacy and doctor service, after obtaining a valid prescription.
Additional Questions
How does Cialis work in the body?
Cialis (tadalafil) works by inhibiting the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzyme, increasing blood flow to the penis to help achieve and maintain an erection.
Is Cialis suitable for long-term use?
Yes, many men use Cialis long-term under medical supervision with regular reviews to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
How long does it take for Cialis to start working?
Cialis typically starts working within 30 minutes, though individual response times may vary.
How long should I wait between doses of Cialis?
Typically, you should wait at least 24 hours between doses. Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding your dosing schedule.
Does Cialis interact with food?
Food does not significantly affect the absorption of Cialis, so you can take it with or without food.
What are the common side effects of Cialis?
Common side effects include headache, indigestion, back pain, nasal congestion, and facial flushing.
Can I take Cialis with alcohol?
Moderate alcohol consumption is usually acceptable, but excessive drinking may reduce the effectiveness of Cialis and increase side effects.
What should I do if I experience an adverse reaction to Cialis?
If you experience any severe side effects or an allergic reaction, stop taking Cialis and seek immediate medical attention.
Are there any contraindications for taking Cialis?
Yes, Cialis is contraindicated for individuals taking nitrates for heart conditions and those with certain cardiovascular issues. A full medical review is essential before use.
What precautions should I take if I have a history of heart problems?
If you have heart problems, consult your doctor before taking Cialis. They will assess your cardiovascular health and determine if Cialis is safe for you.
What Our Patients Say
Sources
References
We write from regulator-approved product information, manufacturer documentation and peer-reviewed or academic sources. Every clinical claim on this page traces back to one of the 5 sources listed here.
Sources checked
At last medical review,
Reviewed by
Aamina Rafiq, Superintendent Pharmacist · GPhC 2216332
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