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Cialis for ED: Dosage, Side Effects & How It Works (2026 Guide)

Cialis® is one of the most commonly prescribed erectile dysfunction (ED) medications due to its long duration and flexible dosing options. Often referred to as the “weekend pill,” Cialis has helped millions of men reduce performance pressure and improve sexual confidence.

Today, most prescriptions are filled using generic tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis. Newer combination treatments have also emerged that build on Cialis’s strengths while addressing onset speed and mental arousal.


What Is Cialis?

Cialis is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow to the penis. It belongs to the PDE5 inhibitor class.

Key facts:

  • Cialis does not cause spontaneous erections

  • Sexual stimulation is required

  • Cialis’s active ingredient is tadalafil

  • Tadalafil (Generic for Cialis) is widely available through telehealth


How Cialis Works

Cialis works by blocking the PDE5 enzyme and sustaining smooth muscle relaxation, allowing improved circulation to erectile tissue. Because tadalafil has a long half-life, Cialis can remain active in the body for up to 36 hours.


Cialis Dosages, Onset, and Effects

2.5 mg or 5 mg Cialis (Daily)

  • Taken once daily

  • Builds steady levels over time

  • Not intended for immediate results

10 mg or 20 mg Cialis (On-Demand)

  • Taken before sex

  • Onset in 30–60 minutes

  • Lasts up to 36 hours


Common Side Effects of Cialis

Common side effects include:

  • Headache

  • Facial flushing

  • Nasal congestion

  • Indigestion

  • Muscle or back pain

Muscle aches are more common with Cialis due to its longer duration.


Cialis vs Other ED Medications

Cialis vs Viagra

  • Cialis lasts much longer

  • Viagra works faster


Generic Tadalafil vs Cialis

Cialis and tadalafil contain the same active ingredient. Generic tadalafil offers the same effectiveness with greater affordability and access.


Why Cialis Alone Isn’t Always Enough

Some men experience delayed arousal, reduced desire, or performance anxiety despite adequate blood flow. Identifying the specific ED symptoms involved can help guide treatment decisions. 👉 10 Early Erectile Dysfunction Symptoms Every Man Should Recognize


How Rugiet Ready Is Different

Rugiet Ready is a sublingual troche formulated with tadalafil, sildenafil, and apomorphine.

  • Tadalafil provides long-lasting readiness

  • Sildenafil supports faster responsiveness

  • Apomorphine supports mental arousal and sexual initiation via dopamine pathways in the brain

Apomorphine addresses the neurological component of sexual performance that blood-flow medications alone do not. Sexual stimulation is still required.

Because Rugiet Ready dissolves under the tongue, it bypasses digestion and absorbs directly into the bloodstream.

Key Benefits of Rugiet Ready

  • Works in 15 minutes or less

  • Lasts up to 36 hours

  • Taken on demand, not daily

  • Boosts arousal in the brain

  • Addresses both mental and physical performance


Is Cialis Right for You?

Cialis is effective for men who value flexibility and extended duration. Men with inconsistent results or low arousal may benefit from a combination approach.


Frequently Asked Questions About Cialis

How long does Cialis last? Up to 36 hours.

Is Cialis the same as tadalafil? Yes. Tadalafil is the generic version of Cialis.

Can Cialis be taken daily? Yes. Rugiet Ready is taken on demand instead.

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