Advertisement



Drugs A–Z

Tadalafil

Tadalafil is a prescription medicine (Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitor). The sections below reproduce one FDA label for it, named under "Label". Products in other forms, strengths or from other makers have their own labels, which can differ.

Recent recall — 3 ongoing recalls reported in the last 90 days. Only the lots listed are affected. Details

Type
Prescription only (Rx)
Brand names
Adcirca, Alyq, Cialis, N/a, Tadliq
Drug class
Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitor
Taken
Oral
Label
Eli Lilly and Company, revised June 3, 2026 · full label on DailyMed
Generic
FDA-approved (28 companies) · details

What it is used for

CIALIS ® is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor indicated for the treatment of: erectile dysfunction (ED) ( 1.1 ) the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) ( 1.2 ) ED and the signs and symptoms of BPH (ED/BPH) ( 1.3 ) If CIALIS is used with finasteride to initiate BPH treatment, such use is recommended for up to 26 weeks ( 1.4 ).

1.1 Erectile Dysfunction CIALIS ® is indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED).

1.2 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia CIALIS is indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

1.3 Erectile Dysfunction and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia CIALIS is indicated for the treatment of ED and the signs and symptoms of BPH (ED/BPH).

1.4 Limitation of Use If CIALIS is used with finasteride to initiate BPH treatment, such use is recommended for up to 26 weeks because the incremental benefit of CIALIS decreases from 4 weeks until 26 weeks, and the incremental benefit of CIALIS beyond 26 weeks is unknown [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] .

Forms and strengths

Three strengths of almond-shaped tablets are available in different sizes and different shades of yellow: 5 mg tablets debossed with “C 5” 10 mg tablets debossed with “C 10” 20 mg tablets debossed with “C 20” Tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg ( 3 ).

Who should not take it (contraindications)

Administration of CIALIS to patients using any form of organic nitrate is contraindicated. CIALIS was shown to potentiate the hypotensive effect of nitrates ( 4.1 ). History of known serious hypersensitivity reaction to CIALIS or ADCIRCA ® ( 4.2 ). Administration with guanylate cyclase (GC) stimulators, such as riociguat ( 4.3 ).

4.1 Nitrates Administration of CIALIS to patients who are using any form of organic nitrate, either regularly and/or intermittently, is contraindicated. In clinical pharmacology studies, CIALIS was shown to potentiate the hypotensive effect of nitrates [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] .

4.2 Hypersensitivity Reactions CIALIS is contraindicated in patients with a known serious hypersensitivity to tadalafil (CIALIS or ADCIRCA ® ). Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and exfoliative dermatitis [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] .

4.3 Concomitant Guanylate Cyclase (GC) Stimulators Do not use CIALIS in patients who are using a GC stimulator, such as riociguat. PDE5 inhibitors, including CIALIS, may potentiate the hypotensive effects of GC stimulators.

Warnings and precautions

Evaluation of erectile dysfunction and BPH should include an appropriate medical assessment to identify potential underlying causes, as well as treatment options. Before prescribing CIALIS, it is important to note the following: Patients should not use CIALIS if sex is inadvisable due to cardiovascular status ( 5.1 ). Use of CIALIS with alpha-blockers, antihypertensives or substantial amounts of alcohol (≥5 units) may lead to hypotension ( 5.6 , 5.9 ). CIALIS is not recommended in combination with alpha-blockers for the treatment of BPH because efficacy of the combination has not been adequately studied and because of the risk of blood pressure lowering. Caution is advised when CIALIS is used as a treatment for ED in men taking alpha-blockers. ( 2.7 , 5.6 , 7.1 , 12.2 ) Patients should seek emergency treatment if an erection lasts >4 hours. Use CIALIS with caution in patients predisposed to priapism ( 5.3 ). Patients should stop CIALIS and seek medical care if a sudden loss of vision occurs in one or both eyes, which could be a sign of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). CIALIS should be used with caution, and only when the anticipated benefits outweigh the risks, in patients with a history of NAION. Patients with a "crowded" optic disc may also be at an increased risk of NAION ( 5.4 , 6.2 ). Patients should stop CIALIS and seek prompt medical attention in the event of sudden decrease or loss of hearing ( 5.5 ). Prior to initiating treatment with CIALIS for BPH, consideration should be given to other urological conditions that may cause similar symptoms ( 5.14 ).

5.1 Cardiovascular Physicians should consider the cardiovascular status of their patients, since there is a degree of cardiac risk associated with sexual activity. Therefore, treatments for erectile dysfunction, including CIALIS, should not be used in men for whom sexual activity is inadvisable as a result of their underlying cardiovascular status. Patients who experience symptoms upon initiation of sexual activity should be advised to refrain from further sexual activity and seek immediate medical attention. Physicians should discuss with patients the appropriate action in the event that they experience anginal chest pain requiring nitroglycerin following intake of CIALIS. In such a patient, who has taken CIALIS, where nitrate administration is deemed medically necessary for a life-threatening situation, at least 48 hours should have elapsed after the last dose of CIALIS before nitrate administration is considered. In such circumstances, nitrates should still only be administered under close medical supervision with appropriate hemodynamic monitoring. Therefore, patients who experience anginal chest pain after taking CIALIS should seek immediate medical attention. [see Contraindications ( 4.1 ) and Patient Counseling Information ( 17.1 )] . Patients with left ventricular outflow obstruction, (e.g., aortic stenosis and idiopathic hypertrophic subaortic stenosis) can be sensitive to the action of vasodilators, including PDE5 inhibitors. The following groups of patients with cardiovascular disease were not included in clinical safety and efficacy trials for CIALIS, and therefore until further information is available, CIALIS is not recommended for the following groups of patients: myocardial infarction within the last 90 days unstable angina or angina occurring during sexual intercourse New York Heart Association Class 2 or greater heart failure in the last 6 months uncontrolled arrhythmias, hypotension (<90/50 mm Hg), or uncontrolled hypertension stroke within the last 6 months. As with other PDE5 inhibitors, tadalafil has mild systemic vasodilatory properties that may result in transient decreases in blood pressure. In a clinical pharmacology study, tadalafil 20 mg resulted in a mean maximal decrease in supine blood pressure, relative to placebo, of 1.6/0.8 mm Hg in healthy subjects [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . While this effect should not be of consequence in most patients, prior to prescribing CIALIS, physicians should carefully consider whether their patients with underlying cardiovascular disease could be affected adversely by such vasodilatory effects. Patients with severely impaired autonomic control of blood pressure may be particularly sensitive to the actions of vasodilators, including PDE5 inhibitors.

5.2 Potential for Drug Interactions When Taking CIALIS for Once Daily Use Physicians should be aware that CIALIS for once daily use provides continuous plasma tadalafil levels and should consider this when evaluating the potential for interactions with medications (e.g., nitrates, alpha-blockers, anti-hypertensives and potent inhibitors of CYP3A4) and with substantial consumption of alcohol [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 , 7.2 , 7.3 )] .

5.3 Prolonged Erection There have been rare reports of prolonged erections greater than 4 hours and priapism (painful erections greater than 6 hours in duration) for this class of compounds. Priapism, if not treated promptly, can result in irreversible damage to the erectile tissue. Patients who have an erection lasting greater than 4 hours, whether painful or not, should seek emergency medical attention. CIALIS should be used with caution in patients who have conditions that might predispose them to priapism (such as sickle cell anemia, multiple myeloma, or leukemia), or in patients with anatomical deformation of the penis (such as angulation, cavernosal fibrosis, or Peyronie's disease).

5.4 Effects on the Eye Physicians should advise patients to stop use of all phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, including CIALIS, and seek medical attention in the event of a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. Such an event may be a sign of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a rare condition and a cause of decreased vision, including permanent loss of vision, that has been reported rarely postmarketing in temporal association with the use of all PDE5 inhibitors. Based on published literature, the annual incidence of NAION is 2.5-11.8 cases per 100,000 in males aged ≥50. An observational case-crossover study evaluated the risk of NAION when PDE5 inhibitor use, as a class, occurred immediately before NAION onset (within 5 half-lives), compared to PDE5 inhibitor use in a prior time period. The results suggest an approximate 2-fold increase in the risk of NAION, with a risk estimate of 2.15 (95% CI 1.06, 4.34). A similar study reported a consistent result, with a risk estimate of 2.27 (95% CI 0.99, 5.20). Other risk factors for NAION, such as the presence of "crowded" optic disc, may have contributed to the occurrence of NAION in these studies. Neither the rare postmarketing reports, nor the association of PDE5 inhibitor use and NAION in the observational studies, substantiate a causal relationship between PDE5 inhibitor use and NAION [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . Physicians should consider whether their patients with underlying NAION risk factors could be adversely affected by use of PDE5 inhibitors. Individuals who have already experienced NAION are at increased risk of NAION recurrence. Therefore, PDE5 inhibitors, including CIALIS, should be used with caution in these patients and only when the anticipated benefits outweigh the risks. Individuals with "crowded" optic disc are also considered at greater risk for NAION compared to the general population; however, evidence is insufficient to support screening of prospective users of PDE5 inhibitors, including CIALIS, for this uncommon condition. Patients with known hereditary degenerative retinal disorders, including retinitis pigmentosa, were not included in the clinical trials, and use in these patients is not recommended.

5.5 Sudden Hearing Loss Physicians should advise patients to stop taking PDE5 inhibitors, including CIALIS, and seek prompt medical attention in the event of sudden decrease or loss of hearing. […]

Side effects (adverse reactions)

Most common adverse reactions (≥2%) include headache, dyspepsia, back pain, myalgia, nasal congestion, flushing, and pain in limb ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Tadalafil was administered to over 9000 men during clinical trials worldwide. In trials of CIALIS for once daily use, a total of 1434, 905, and 115 were treated for at least 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively. For CIALIS for use as needed, over 1300 and 1000 subjects were treated for at least 6 months and 1 year, respectively. CIALIS for Use as Needed for ED In eight primary placebo-controlled clinical studies of 12 weeks duration, mean age was 59 years (range 22 to 88) and the discontinuation rate due to adverse events in patients treated with tadalafil 10 or 20 mg was 3.1%, compared to 1.4% in placebo treated patients. When taken as recommended in the placebo-controlled clinical trials, the following adverse reactions were reported ( see Table 1 ) for CIALIS for use as needed: Table 1: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥2% of Patients Treated with CIALIS (10 or 20 mg) and More Frequent on Drug than Placebo in the Eight Primary Placebo-Controlled Clinical Studies (Including a Study in Patients with Diabetes) for CIALIS for Use as Needed for ED a The term flushing includes: facial flushing and flushing Adverse Reaction Placebo (N=476) Tadalafil 5 mg (N=151) Tadalafil 10 mg (N=394) Tadalafil 20 mg (N=635) Headache 5% 11% 11% 15% Dyspepsia 1% 4% 8% 10% Back pain 3% 3% 5% 6% Myalgia 1% 1% 4% 3% Nasal congestion 1% 2% 3% 3% Flushing a 1% 2% 3% 3% Pain in limb 1% 1% 3% 3% CIALIS for Once Daily Use for ED In three placebo-controlled clinical trials of 12 or 24 weeks duration, mean age was 58 years (range 21 to 82) and the discontinuation rate due to adverse events in patients treated with tadalafil was 4.1%, compared to 2.8% in placebo-treated patients. The following adverse reactions were reported ( see Table 2 ) in clinical trials of 12 weeks duration: Table 2: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥2% of Patients Treated with CIALIS for Once Daily Use (2.5 or 5 mg) and More Frequent on Drug than Placebo in the Three Primary Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Studies of 12 weeks Treatment Duration (Including a Study in Patients with Diabetes) for CIALIS for Once Daily Use for ED Adverse Reaction Placebo (N=248) Tadalafil 2.5 mg (N=196) Tadalafil 5 mg (N=304) Headache 5% 3% 6% Dyspepsia 2% 4% 5% Nasopharyngitis 4% 4% 3% Back pain 1% 3% 3% Upper respiratory tract infection 1% 3% 3% Flushing 1% 1% 3% Myalgia 1% 2% 2% Cough 0% 4% 2% Diarrhea 0% 1% 2% Nasal congestion 0% 2% 2% Pain in extremity 0% 1% 2% Urinary tract infection 0% 2% 0% Gastroesophageal reflux disease 0% 2% 1% Abdominal pain 0% 2% 1% The following adverse reactions were reported ( see Table 3 ) over 24 weeks treatment duration in one placebo-controlled clinical study: Table 3: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥2% of Patients Treated with CIALIS for Once Daily Use (2.5 or 5 mg) and More Frequent on Drug than Placebo in One Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study of 24 Weeks Treatment Duration for CIALIS for Once Daily Use for ED Adverse Reaction Placebo (N=94) Tadalafil 2.5 mg (N=96) Tadalafil 5 mg (N=97) Nasopharyngitis 5% 6% 6% Gastroenteritis 2% 3% 5% Back pain 3% 5% 2% Upper respiratory tract infection 0% 3% 4% Dyspepsia 1% 4% 1% Gastroesophageal reflux disease 0% 3% 2% Myalgia 2% 4% 1% Hypertension 0% 1% 3% Nasal congestion 0% 0% 4% CIALIS for Once Daily Use for BPH and for ED and BPH In three placebo-controlled clinical trials of 12 weeks duration, two in patients with BPH and one in patients with ED and BPH, the mean age was 63 years (range 44 to 93) and the discontinuation rate due to adverse events in patients treated with tadalafil was 3.6% compared to 1.6% in placebo-treated patients. Adverse reactions leading to discontinuation reported by at least 2 patients treated with tadalafil included headache, upper abdominal pain, and myalgia. The following adverse reactions were reported ( see Table 4 ). Table 4: Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥1% of Patients Treated with CIALIS for Once Daily Use (5 mg) and More Frequent on Drug than Placebo in Three Placebo-Controlled Clinical Studies of 12 Weeks Treatment Duration, including Two Studies for CIALIS for Once Daily Use for BPH and One Study for ED and BPH Adverse Reaction Placebo (N=576) Tadalafil 5 mg (N=581) Headache 2.3% 4.1% Dyspepsia 0.2% 2.4% Back pain 1.4% 2.4% Nasopharyngitis 1.6% 2.1% Diarrhea 1.0% 1.4% Pain in extremity 0.0% 1.4% Myalgia 0.3% 1.2% Dizziness 0.5% 1.0% Additional, less frequent adverse reactions (<1%) reported in the controlled clinical trials of CIALIS for BPH or ED and BPH included: gastroesophageal reflux disease, upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, arthralgia, and muscle spasm. Back pain or myalgia was reported at incidence rates described in Tables 1 through 4. In tadalafil clinical pharmacology trials, back pain or myalgia generally occurred 12 to 24 hours after dosing and typically resolved within 48 hours. The back pain/myalgia associated with tadalafil treatment was characterized by diffuse bilateral lower lumbar, gluteal, thigh, or thoracolumbar muscular discomfort and was exacerbated by recumbency. In general, pain was reported as mild or moderate in severity and resolved without medical treatment, but severe back pain was reported with a low frequency (<5% of all reports). When medical treatment was necessary, acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were generally effective; however, in a small percentage of subjects who required treatment, a mild narcotic (e.g., codeine) was used. Overall, approximately 0.5% of all subjects treated with CIALIS for on demand use discontinued treatment as a consequence of back pain/myalgia. In the 1-year open label extension study, back pain and myalgia were reported in 5.5% and 1.3% of patients, respectively. Diagnostic testing, including measures for inflammation, muscle injury, or renal damage revealed no evidence of medically significant underlying pathology. Incidence rates for CIALIS for once daily use for ED, BPH and BPH/ED are described in Tables 2, 3 and 4. In studies of CIALIS for once daily use, adverse reactions of back pain and myalgia were generally mild or moderate with a discontinuation rate of <1% across all indications. Across placebo-controlled studies with CIALIS for use as needed for ED, diarrhea was reported more frequently in patients 65 years of age and older who were treated with CIALIS (2.5% of patients) [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 )] . Across all studies with any CIALIS dose, reports of changes in color vision were rare (<0.1% of patients). The following section identifies additional, less frequent events (<2%) reported in controlled clinical trials of CIALIS for once daily use or use as needed. A causal relationship of these events to CIALIS is uncertain. […]

Drug interactions

CIALIS can potentiate the hypotensive effects of nitrates, alpha-blockers, antihypertensives or alcohol ( 7.1 ). CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole, ritonavir) increase CIALIS exposure ( 2.7 , 5.10 , 7.2 ) requiring dose adjustment: CIALIS for use as needed: no more than 10 mg every 72 hours CIALIS for once daily use: dose not to exceed 2.5 mg CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. rifampin) decrease CIALIS exposure ( 7.2 ).

7.1 Potential for Pharmacodynamic Interactions with CIALIS Nitrates — Administration of CIALIS to patients who are using any form of organic nitrate, is contraindicated. In clinical pharmacology studies, CIALIS was shown to potentiate the hypotensive effect of nitrates. In a patient who has taken CIALIS, where nitrate administration is deemed medically necessary in a life-threatening situation, at least 48 hours should elapse after the last dose of CIALIS before nitrate administration is considered. In such circumstances, nitrates should still only be administered under close medical supervision with appropriate hemodynamic monitoring [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ), Contraindications ( 4.1 ), and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Alpha-Blockers — Caution is advised when PDE5 inhibitors are coadministered with alpha-blockers. PDE5 inhibitors, including CIALIS, and alpha-adrenergic blocking agents are both vasodilators with blood-pressure-lowering effects. When vasodilators are used in combination, an additive effect on blood pressure may be anticipated. Clinical pharmacology studies have been conducted with coadministration of tadalafil with doxazosin, tamsulosin or alfuzosin. [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ), and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Antihypertensives — PDE5 inhibitors, including tadalafil, are mild systemic vasodilators. Clinical pharmacology studies were conducted to assess the effect of tadalafil on the potentiation of the blood-pressure-lowering effects of selected antihypertensive medications (amlodipine, angiotensin II receptor blockers, bendrofluazide, enalapril, and metoprolol). Small reductions in blood pressure occurred following coadministration of tadalafil with these agents compared with placebo. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Alcohol — Both alcohol and tadalafil, a PDE5 inhibitor, act as mild vasodilators. When mild vasodilators are taken in combination, blood-pressure-lowering effects of each individual compound may be increased. Substantial consumption of alcohol (e.g., 5 units or greater) in combination with CIALIS can increase the potential for orthostatic signs and symptoms, including increase in heart rate, decrease in standing blood pressure, dizziness, and headache. Tadalafil did not affect alcohol plasma concentrations and alcohol did not affect tadalafil plasma concentrations. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] .

7.2 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect CIALIS [See Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] . Antacids — Simultaneous administration of an antacid (magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide) and tadalafil reduced the apparent rate of absorption of tadalafil without altering exposure (AUC) to tadalafil. H 2 Antagonists (e.g. Nizatidine) — An increase in gastric pH resulting from administration of nizatidine had no significant effect on pharmacokinetics. Cytochrome P450 Inhibitors — CIALIS is a substrate of and predominantly metabolized by CYP3A4. Studies have shown that drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 can increase tadalafil exposure. CYP3A4 (e.g., Ketoconazole) — Ketoconazole (400 mg daily), a selective and potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased tadalafil 20 mg single-dose exposure (AUC) by 312% and C max by 22%, relative to the values for tadalafil 20 mg alone. Ketoconazole (200 mg daily) increased tadalafil 10-mg single-dose exposure (AUC) by 107% and C max by 15%, relative to the values for tadalafil 10 mg alone [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 )] . Although specific interactions have not been studied, other CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as erythromycin, itraconazole, and grapefruit juice, would likely increase tadalafil exposure. HIV Protease inhibitor — Ritonavir (500 mg or 600 mg twice daily at steady state), an inhibitor of CYP3A4, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP2D6, increased tadalafil 20-mg single-dose exposure (AUC) by 32% with a 30% reduction in C max , relative to the values for tadalafil 20 mg alone. Ritonavir (200 mg twice daily), increased tadalafil 20-mg single-dose exposure (AUC) by 124% with no change in C max , relative to the values for tadalafil 20 mg alone. Although specific interactions have not been studied, other HIV protease inhibitors would likely increase tadalafil exposure [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7 )] . Cytochrome P450 Inducers — Studies have shown that drugs that induce CYP3A4 can decrease tadalafil exposure. CYP3A4 (e.g., Rifampin) — Rifampin (600 mg daily), a CYP3A4 inducer, reduced tadalafil 10-mg single-dose exposure (AUC) by 88% and C max by 46%, relative to the values for tadalafil 10 mg alone. Although specific interactions have not been studied, other CYP3A4 inducers, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, and phenobarbital, would likely decrease tadalafil exposure. No dose adjustment is warranted. The reduced exposure of tadalafil with the coadministration of rifampin or other CYP3A4 inducers can be anticipated to decrease the efficacy of CIALIS for once daily use; the magnitude of decreased efficacy is unknown.

7.3 Potential for CIALIS to Affect Other Drugs Aspirin — Tadalafil did not potentiate the increase in bleeding time caused by aspirin. Cytochrome P450 Substrates — CIALIS is not expected to cause clinically significant inhibition or induction of the clearance of drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms. Studies have shown that tadalafil does not inhibit or induce P450 isoforms CYP1A2, CYP3A4, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP2E1. CYP1A2 (e.g. Theophylline) — Tadalafil had no significant effect on the pharmacokinetics of theophylline. When tadalafil was administered to subjects taking theophylline, a small augmentation (3 beats per minute) of the increase in heart rate associated with theophylline was observed. CYP2C9 (e.g. Warfarin) — Tadalafil had no significant effect on exposure (AUC) to S-warfarin or R-warfarin, nor did tadalafil affect changes in prothrombin time induced by warfarin. CYP3A4 (e.g. Midazolam or Lovastatin) — Tadalafil had no significant effect on exposure (AUC) to midazolam or lovastatin. P-glycoprotein (e.g. Digoxin) — Coadministration of tadalafil (40 mg once per day) for 10 days did not have a significant effect on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of digoxin (0.25 mg/day) in healthy subjects.

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children and older adults

Hepatic Impairment ( 2.6 , 5.8 , 8.6 ): Mild or Moderate: Dosage adjustment may be needed. Severe: Use is not recommended. Renal Impairment ( 2.6 , 5.7 , 8.7 ): Patients with creatinine clearance 30 to 50 mL/min: Dosage adjustment may be needed. Patients with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min or on hemodialysis: For use as needed: Dose should not exceed 5 mg every 72 hours. Once daily use is not recommended.

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary CIALIS (tadalafil) is not indicated for use in females. There are no data with the use of CIALIS in pregnant women to inform any drug-associated risks for adverse developmental outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed with oral administration of tadalafil to pregnant rats or mice during organogenesis at exposures up to 11 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 20 mg/day ( see Data). Data Animal Data Animal reproduction studies showed no evidence of teratogenicity, embryotoxicity, or fetotoxicity when tadalafil was given orally to pregnant rats or mice at exposures up to 11 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 20 mg/day during organogenesis. In a prenatal/postnatal developmental study in rats, postnatal pup survival decreased following maternal exposure to tadalafil doses greater than 10 times the MRHD based on AUC. Signs of maternal toxicity occurred at doses greater than 16 times the MRHD based on AUC. Surviving offspring had normal development and reproductive performance. In another rat prenatal and postnatal development study at doses of 60, 200, and 1000 mg/kg, a reduction in postnatal survival of pups was observed. The no observed effect level (NOEL) for maternal toxicity was 200 mg/kg/day and for developmental toxicity was 30 mg/kg/day. This gives approximately 16 and 10 fold exposure multiples, respectively, of the human AUC for the MRHD of 20 mg. Tadalafil and/or its metabolites cross the placenta, resulting in fetal exposure in rats.

8.2 Lactation Risk Summary CIALIS is not indicated for use in females. There is no information on the presence of tadalafil and/or metabolites in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. Tadalafil and/or its metabolites are present in the milk of lactating rats at concentrations approximately 2.4-fold greater than found in the plasma.

8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Infertility Based on the data from 3 studies in adult males, tadalafil decreased sperm concentrations in the study of 10 mg tadalafil for 6 months and the study of 20 mg tadalafil for 9 months. This effect was not seen in the study of 20 mg tadalafil taken for 6 months. There was no adverse effect of tadalafil 10 mg or 20 mg on mean concentrations of testosterone, luteinizing hormone or follicle stimulating hormone. The clinical significance of the decreased sperm concentrations in the two studies is unknown. There have been no studies evaluating the effect of tadalafil on fertility in men [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2 )] . Based on studies in animals, a decrease in spermatogenesis was observed in dogs, but not in rats [see Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1 )] .

8.4 Pediatric Use CIALIS is not indicated for use in pediatric patients. Safety and efficacy in patients below the age of 18 years have not been established. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in pediatric patients (7 to 14 years of age) with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, who received CIALIS 0.3 mg/kg, CIALIS 0.6 mg/kg, or placebo daily for 48 weeks failed to demonstrate any benefit of treatment with CIALIS on a range of assessments of muscle strength and performance. Juvenile Animal Study No adverse effects were observed in a study in which tadalafil was administered orally at doses of 60, 200, and 1000 mg/kg/day to juvenile rats on postnatal days 14 to 90. The highest plasma tadalafil exposures (AUC) achieved were approximately 10-fold that observed at the MRHD.

8.5 Geriatric Use Of the total number of subjects in ED clinical studies of tadalafil, approximately 19 percent were 65 and over, while approximately 2 percent were 75 and over. Of the total number of subjects in BPH clinical studies of tadalafil (including the ED/BPH study), approximately 40 percent were over 65, while approximately 10 percent were 75 and over. In these clinical trials, no overall differences in efficacy or safety were observed between older (>65 and ≥75 years of age) and younger subjects (≤65 years of age). However, in placebo-controlled studies with CIALIS for use as needed for ED, diarrhea was reported more frequently in patients 65 years of age and older who were treated with CIALIS (2.5% of patients) [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . No dose adjustment is warranted based on age alone. However, a greater sensitivity to medications in some older individuals should be considered. [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] .

8.6 Hepatic Impairment In clinical pharmacology studies, tadalafil exposure (AUC) in subjects with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A or B) was comparable to exposure in healthy subjects when a dose of 10 mg was administered. There are no available data for doses higher than 10 mg of tadalafil in patients with hepatic impairment. Insufficient data are available for subjects with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C). [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.6 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] .

8.7 Renal Impairment In clinical pharmacology studies using single-dose tadalafil (5 to 10 mg), tadalafil exposure (AUC) doubled in subjects with creatinine clearance 30 to 80 mL/min. In subjects with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis, there was a two-fold increase in C max and 2.7- to 4.8-fold increase in AUC following single-dose administration of 10 or 20 mg tadalafil. Exposure to total methylcatechol (unconjugated plus glucuronide) was 2- to 4-fold higher in subjects with renal impairment, compared to those with normal renal function. Hemodialysis (performed between 24 and 30 hours post-dose) contributed negligibly to tadalafil or metabolite elimination. In a clinical pharmacology study (N=28) at a dose of 10 mg, back pain was reported as a limiting adverse event in male patients with creatinine clearance 30 to 50 mL/min. At a dose of 5 mg, the incidence and severity of back pain was not significantly different than in the general population. In patients on hemodialysis taking 10- or 20-mg tadalafil, there were no reported cases of back pain. [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.6 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] .

How it works

Penile erection during sexual stimulation is caused by increased penile blood flow resulting from the relaxation of penile arteries and corpus cavernosal smooth muscle. This response is mediated by the release of nitric oxide (NO) from nerve terminals and endothelial cells, which stimulates the synthesis of cGMP in smooth muscle cells. Cyclic GMP causes smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow into the corpus cavernosum. The inhibition of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enhances erectile function by increasing the amount of cGMP. Tadalafil inhibits PDE5. Because sexual stimulation is required to initiate the local release of nitric oxide, the inhibition of PDE5 by tadalafil has no effect in the absence of sexual stimulation. The effect of PDE5 inhibition on cGMP concentration in the corpus cavernosum and pulmonary arteries is also observed in the smooth muscle of the prostate, the bladder and their vascular supply. The mechanism for reducing BPH symptoms has not been established. Studies in vitro have demonstrated that tadalafil is a selective inhibitor of PDE5. PDE5 is found in the smooth muscle of the corpus cavernosum, prostate, and bladder as well as in vascular and visceral smooth muscle, skeletal muscle, urethra, platelets, kidney, lung, cerebellum, heart, liver, testis, seminal vesicle, and pancreas. In vitro studies have shown that the effect of tadalafil is more potent on PDE5 than on other phosphodiesterases. These studies have shown that tadalafil is >10,000-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE1, PDE2, PDE4, and PDE7 enzymes, which are found in the heart, brain, blood vessels, liver, leukocytes, skeletal muscle, and other organs. Tadalafil is >10,000-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE3, an enzyme found in the heart and blood vessels. Additionally, tadalafil is 700-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE6, which is found in the retina and is responsible for phototransduction. Tadalafil is >9,000-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE8, PDE9, and PDE10. Tadalafil is 14-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE11A1 and 40-fold more potent for PDE5 than for PDE11A4, two of the four known forms of PDE11. PDE11 is an enzyme found in human prostate, testes, skeletal muscle and in other tissues (e.g., adrenal cortex). In vitro , tadalafil inhibits human recombinant PDE11A1 and, to a lesser degree, PDE11A4 activities at concentrations within the therapeutic range. The physiological role and clinical consequence of PDE11 inhibition in humans have not been defined.

Is there a generic Tadalafil?

Yes. The FDA has approved generic Tadalafil from 28 companies whose approvals are active. The earliest of these was approved in 2018.

An FDA approval does not always mean the generic is already in pharmacies: patent disputes and settlements can delay a launch for years. Your pharmacist can tell you whether a generic is actually available and covered by your plan.

The FDA rates these generics as therapeutically equivalent to the brand ("A" rating): same active ingredient, strength, dosage form and effect. Pharmacists can usually substitute them unless the prescriber says otherwise.

Companies with an approved generic

Accord Hlthcare, Ajanta Pharma Ltd, Alembic, Amneal Pharms Co, Aurobindo Pharma Ltd, Chartwell Rx, Cipla, Dr Reddys, Hangzhou Binjiang, Hetero Labs Ltd Iii, Jubilant Generics, Lupin, Macleods Pharms, Novitium Pharma, Prinston Inc, Qilu Pharm Hainan, Rising, Shandong, Sun Pharm, Sunshine, Teva Pharms Inc, Teva Pharms Usa, Torrent, Umedica, Unichem, Vkt Pharma, Watson Labs Inc, Zydus Pharms

Brand-name versions

  • Cialis Lilly, approved 2003
  • Adcirca Eli Lilly Co, approved 2009
  • Tadliq Cmp Dev Llc, approved 2022
  • Chewtadzy B Better, approved 2024 Discontinued

Source: Drugs@FDA (via openFDA), checked October 29, 2026. Marketing status is what companies report to the FDA; whether a pharmacy stocks a product, and what your insurance covers, can differ.

Dosage:
we do not reproduce dosing instructions. The right dose depends on the person and the condition and is set by the prescriber or pharmacist. Dosage section of the full label.

Tadalafil in the news

We have not covered this medicine yet. Latest news

Recalls

  • Class II Ongoing

    TADALAFIL USP, 1.00 KG, 1KG(1000gm)-bag, Rx only, "For Prescription Compounding Only", Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP, Block/Survey no 408, B/H Ratnamani Tubes, Near Maruti Inox, Indrad, Kadi, Mahesania, Gujarat, 382715, India,…

    Reason: CGMP Deviations:Noted during FDA inspection

    Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP

    Lots, distribution and details
    Product
    TADALAFIL USP, 1.00 KG, 1KG(1000gm)-bag, Rx only, "For Prescription Compounding Only", Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP, Block/Survey no 408, B/H Ratnamani Tubes, Near Maruti Inox, Indrad, Kadi, Mahesania, Gujarat, 382715, India, (CAS NO 171596-29-5), NDC 85702-001-08
    Lots / codes
    Batch TLF2506001, Date of Expiry: May 31, 2028.
    Distribution
    Distributed Nationwide in the USA
    Quantity
    1KG – 20 X 1KG(1000gm) bags
    Recall started
    August 3, 2026 (Voluntary: Firm initiated)
    Severity
    Could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems; serious harm is unlikely.
    FDA recall number
    D-0762-2026
  • Class II Ongoing

    TADALAFIL USP, 0.500 KG, 0.500KG(500gm)-bag, Rx only, "For Prescription Compounding Only", Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP, Block/Survey no 408, B/H Ratnamani Tubes, Near Maruti Inox, Indrad, Kadi, Mahesania, Gujarat, 382715, In…

    Reason: CGMP Deviations:Noted during FDA inspection

    Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP

    Lots, distribution and details
    Product
    TADALAFIL USP, 0.500 KG, 0.500KG(500gm)-bag, Rx only, "For Prescription Compounding Only", Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP, Block/Survey no 408, B/H Ratnamani Tubes, Near Maruti Inox, Indrad, Kadi, Mahesania, Gujarat, 382715, India, (CAS NO 171596-29-5), NDC 85702-002-04.
    Lots / codes
    Batch TLF2506001, Date of Expiry: May 31, 2028.
    Distribution
    Distributed Nationwide in the USA
    Quantity
    20 KG, 40 X 0.500KG(500gm) bags
    Recall started
    August 3, 2026 (Voluntary: Firm initiated)
    Severity
    Could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems; serious harm is unlikely.
    FDA recall number
    D-0761-2026
  • Class II Ongoing

    TADALAFIL USP, 0.100 KG, 0.1KG(100gm)-bag, Rx only, "For Prescription Compounding Only", Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP, Block/Survey no 408, B/H Ratnamani Tubes, Near Maruti Inox, Indrad, Kadi, Mahesania, Gujarat, 382715, Indi…

    Reason: CGMP Deviations:Noted during FDA inspection

    Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP

    Lots, distribution and details
    Product
    TADALAFIL USP, 0.100 KG, 0.1KG(100gm)-bag, Rx only, "For Prescription Compounding Only", Shoolin Pharma Chem LLP, Block/Survey no 408, B/H Ratnamani Tubes, Near Maruti Inox, Indrad, Kadi, Mahesania, Gujarat, 382715, India, (CAS NO 1715996-29-5), NDC 85702-002-02.
    Lots / codes
    Lot: TLF2506001, Date of Expiry: May 31, 2028.
    Distribution
    Distributed Nationwide in the USA
    Quantity
    1KG – 100-0.1KG(100gm) bags
    Recall started
    August 3, 2026 (Voluntary: Firm initiated)
    Severity
    Could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems; serious harm is unlikely.
    FDA recall number
    D-0760-2026
  • Class II Ongoing

    Tadalafil Tablets, USP 5 mg, 30-count bottles, Rx Only, Repackaged By: Northwind Pharmaceuticals, Indianapolis, IN 46203. NDC 51655-487-52

    Reason: CGMP Deviations

    Northwind Pharmaceuticals LLC

    Lots, distribution and details
    Product
    Tadalafil Tablets, USP 5 mg, 30-count bottles, Rx Only, Repackaged By: Northwind Pharmaceuticals, Indianapolis, IN 46203. NDC 51655-487-52
    Lots / codes
    Lot #: F114302001, Exp. Date 05/31/2023
    Distribution
    Nationwide with the United States
    Quantity
    23 bottles
    Recall started
    March 16, 2023 (Voluntary: Firm initiated)
    Severity
    Could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems; serious harm is unlikely.
    FDA recall number
    D-0554-2023
  • Class II Ongoing

    Tadalafil Tablets, USP 20 mg, packaged in a) 6-count bottles (NDC 51655-473-87), and b) 15-count bottles (NDC 51655-473-54), Rx Only, Repackaged By: Northwind Pharmaceuticals, Indianapolis, IN 46203.

    Reason: CGMP Deviations

    Northwind Pharmaceuticals LLC

    Lots, distribution and details
    Lots / codes
    a) Lot #: F113892002, Exp. Date 08/31/2023; F113892201, Exp. Date 11/30/2023 b) Lot #: F113892001, Exp. Date 08/31/2023; F113892202, Exp. Date 11/30/2023; F113892203, Exp. Date 12/31/2023
    Distribution
    Nationwide with the United States
    Quantity
    a)164 bottles; b) 198 bottles
    Recall started
    March 16, 2023 (Voluntary: Firm initiated)
    Severity
    Could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems; serious harm is unlikely.
    FDA recall number
    D-0553-2023
  • Class II Ongoing

    Tadalafil Tablets, USP, 20 mg, 7-count bottle, Rx only, Manufactured for: Accord Healthcare, lnc., Durham, NC 27703, NDC 68788-8153-7

    Reason: cGMP Deviations for the manufacturing Firm (Accord Healthcare) after their inspection.

    Preferred Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

    Lots, distribution and details
    Lots / codes
    Lot: C0822E, Exp 1/31/2024, F1121B, Exp 1/31/2024, G2721L, Exp 1/31/2024.
    Distribution
    USA Nationwide
    Quantity
    32 Bottles
    Recall started
    March 23, 2023 (Voluntary: Firm initiated)
    Severity
    Could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems; serious harm is unlikely.
    FDA recall number
    D-0526-2023

Have this medicine at home? Compare the lot number and expiry date on your package with the recall. Do not stop taking a prescribed medicine on your own — stopping suddenly can be riskier than the recalled lot. Your pharmacist can check it and usually swap it for an unaffected one.

Get alerts for Tadalafil

We will email you if the FDA reports a recall, if its shortage status changes, or when we publish news about it — at most one email a day. No account needed.









Source: FDA structured product labeling, retrieved through openFDA. Label text is shown as published by the FDA, without editing; long sections are shortened, marked […]. openFDA data are not validated for clinical use — always check the current label and ask a doctor or pharmacist about your own treatment. Set ID bcd8f8ab-81a2-4891-83db-24a0b0e25895.


Advertisement



Important: this content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice, a prescribing instruction, or a recommendation to act. Consult a licensed healthcare professional before taking any medication.

Advertisement